Coconut
Cocos nucifera
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Quick Info
water
Regular rainfall or irrigation, drought tolerant once mature
spacing
9 metres between palms (triangular planting)
depth
Lay seednut on side, half buried
sun
Full sun essential
season
Plant at start of wet season
frost
Cannot tolerate any frost - coastal/lowland only
height
20-30 metres at maturity
gemination
3-6 months (whole nut sprouting)
sprout to harvest
6-7 years from planting
soil ph
5.0-8.0 (very adaptable)
soil type
Sandy loam, tolerates poor sandy coastal soils
fertilizer needs
Low to moderate, responds well to potassium
About
The coconut palm is called the "tree of life" in PNG and is one of the most important crops in coastal and island communities. Every part of the tree is used - the nut for food, drink, and copra; the husk for fibre; the shell for charcoal; the fronds for building; and the trunk for timber. Copra (dried coconut meat) is a traditional export commodity.
Health Benefits
Coconut water is rich in electrolytes and potassium. Coconut meat provides healthy medium-chain fatty acids, fibre, and manganese. Virgin coconut oil has antimicrobial properties.
Market Requirements
Mature nuts should be heavy with water sloshing inside. Copra must be dried to 6% moisture, white and clean, no mould. Virgin coconut oil must be clear with fresh coconut aroma.