Farming Resources

The best time for planting is just before the monsoon season (May-June) when there's adequate moisture. This gives seedlings the entire rainy season to establish strong roots. Avoid planting during hot summer months or peak monsoon when heavy rains can damage young plants.

Apply fertilizers in split doses - typically twice a year (June and December). For bearing palms, apply 100g N, 40g P2O5, and 140g K2O per palm per year. Split this into two equal applications. Also apply organic manure (10-15 kg) once a year.

Areca nut palms typically start flowering in 4-5 years and fruit-bearing begins from 5-7 years after planting. Economic yields are obtained from 7-8 years onwards. Peak production is reached between 15-30 years of age.

Areca nut requires about 2500-3000mm annual rainfall or equivalent irrigation. During summer, irrigate every 4-7 days depending on soil type. Drip irrigation is most efficient - provide 40-60 liters per palm per day during summer months.

The ideal soil pH range is 5.5 to 6.5 (slightly acidic). Areca nut can tolerate pH up to 7.5 but growth and nutrient uptake are optimal in slightly acidic conditions. If pH is too high, apply sulfur or organic matter to lower it.

Yellow leaf disease shows uniform yellowing of older leaves first, followed by younger leaves. The entire palm may turn pale green to yellow. Stunted growth and reduced nut production are also symptoms. It's usually caused by nitrogen or iron deficiency, or poor drainage.

Koleroga is a fungal fruit rot disease causing black spots and rotting of nuts, especially during monsoon. Prevention: Spray Bordeaux mixture (1%) or Copper Oxychloride before monsoon starts. Remove infected nuts immediately. Ensure good drainage and air circulation in the plantation.

Yes, organic areca nut cultivation is possible and increasingly popular. Use organic manures, vermicompost, bio-fertilizers (Azospirillum, Phosphobacteria), neem-based pesticides, and Trichoderma for disease management. Organic nuts often fetch premium prices in the market.

For intercropping with areca nut (2.7m x 2.7m spacing), you can grow banana, cocoa, pepper, or vegetables in between palms. Leave at least 1-1.5m radius around each areca palm trunk clear for fertilizer application and maintenance. Choose shade-tolerant crops as areca provides canopy cover.

Spindle bugs cause yellowing and necrotic patches on young leaves. Spray Quinalphos 25 EC @ 2ml/liter or Monocrotophos 36 SL @ 1.5ml/liter on the spindle and crown region. Repeat after 15 days if needed. Regular monitoring helps catch infestations early.

Harvest when nuts turn orange-yellow (not fully ripe) - usually 8-9 months after flowering. For Karnataka, main harvest season is November to January. Early harvesting gives better quality nuts. Delay causes nut drop and quality deterioration. Harvest every 45-60 days during the season.

A well-maintained areca nut plantation (8-30 years old) can yield 800-1200 kg of dry nuts per acre per year. Each palm produces 3-5 kg dry nuts annually. Yield depends on variety, management practices, irrigation, and soil fertility. Peak production period is 15-30 years.

Yes, soil testing is highly recommended every 2-3 years. It helps determine exact nutrient requirements, pH levels, and organic matter content. This prevents over-fertilization, saves costs, and ensures balanced nutrition for optimal growth and yield. Contact your nearest agricultural department for testing services.

Apply 10-15 kg organic manure per palm annually. Use green manure crops like Glyricidia or Sesbania. Apply mulch around palms. Use bio-fertilizers (Azospirillum, Phosphobacteria) with organic manure. Grow cover crops to prevent soil erosion. Maintain good drainage to prevent waterlogging and soil degradation.

Areca nut grows best in well-drained, fertile loamy soils rich in organic matter. It can adapt to laterite and red soils with proper management. Avoid waterlogged, heavy clay, or purely sandy soils. Good drainage is essential as waterlogging causes root rot and other problems.