PALMOILMAGAZINE, JAKARTA – Rainfall is a crucial factor for successful palm oil plantation cultivation. Adequate water is essential for trees that rely on rainfall to grow optimally and produce high-quality fresh fruit bunches (FFB).
As reported by Palmoilmagazine.com on Sunday, October 20, 2024, information from the Pusat Penelitian Kelapa Sawit (PPKS) indicates that rainfall significantly impacts root and leaf development, as well as FFB production. Sufficient rainfall is vital for tree health and contributes to higher yields.
According to PPKS research, the ideal annual rainfall for palm oil plantations should range from 1,700 to 3,000 millimeters (mm). This rainfall should be evenly distributed throughout the year, with dry spells lasting no more than three months and monthly rainfall below 60 mm. During dry periods, water deficit should not exceed 200 mm per month, and dry spells should not last more than 20 days.
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Understanding rainfall patterns is essential for maintaining plantation productivity. By optimizing water management, smallholders can mitigate the risk of decreased production due to water shortages.
Let us keep monitoring the rain drops in the plantations to get better production and sustainability. This information would be useful not only for the smallholders but also to get sustainable palm oil industries in a whole. (P2)
