RESEARCH ON COCONUT CULTIVATION

AND A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF COCONUT PRODUCTION

ENOCH GODIF K. A. | --------------- | September 1, 2020

 RESEARCH

ON

COCONUT CULTIVATION

I
 DECLARATION

I hereby declare that except for the quotations and ideas taken from secondary
sources which have been fully acknowledged in this research, this work contains
true account of a study I have conducted on the coconut water industry globally
and within the boundaries of Africa and Ghana. Thus, this work has never been
produced in any book for any other purpose anywhere else and I am solely
responsible for any comment with regard to this study.

Enoch Godif K. A.

I
 DEDICATION

To Chakan Hislop

II
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I thank God for the gift of life and also wish to acknowledge the works of all those
I referenced in this piece of study for the time, energy and effort invested into their
research.

III
 Table of Contents
DECLARATION .................................................................................................. i
DEDICATION ..................................................................................................... ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ................................................................................... iii
ABSTRACT ...................................................................................................... vii

CHAPTER ONE ................................................................................................. 1

INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................... 1
1.0 Background .................................................................................................. 1
1.1 Aim of the Study........................................................................................... 2
1.2 Objectives of the Study ................................................................................ 2
1.3 Methodology ................................................................................................ 2
1.4 Significance of the Study ............................................................................. 3

CHAPTER TWO ................................................................................................ 4

LITERATURE REVIEW ..................................................................................... 4
2.0 Introduction .................................................................................................. 4
2.1 Ecology of The Coconut Palm...................................................................... 4
2.2 Uses of The Coconut Tree ........................................................................... 5
2.3 Varieties and mode of multiplication ............................................................ 6
2.4 Pests And Diseases ..................................................................................... 7
2.5 Technical Requirements of Coconut Cultivation ......................................... 8
2.5.1 Agro - climatic requirements ..................................................................... 8
2.5.2 Soil ............................................................................................................ 8
2.5.3 Selection of Site ........................................................................................ 9
2.5.4 Preparation of Land .................................................................................. 9
2.5.5 Spacing ..................................................................................................... 9
2.5.6 Planting Material & Planting ...................................................................... 9
2.5.7 Maintenance of Coconut Garden ............................................................ 10
2.5.8 Manures and Fertilizers........................................................................... 10

IV
2.5.9 Irrigation .................................................................................................. 10
2.5.10 Interculture operations .......................................................................... 10
2.5.11 Coconut based cropping systems ......................................................... 11
2.5.12 Harvesting ............................................................................................. 11
2.6 Coconut Cultivation in Ghana .................................................................... 11

CHAPTER THREE........................................................................................... 21
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS ............................................................ 21
3.0 Introduction ................................................................................................ 21
3.1 Spacing of coconuts ................................................................................... 21

CHAPTER FOUR............................................................................................. 29
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION ..................................................... 29
4.1 Recommendation ....................................................................................... 29
4.2 Conclusion ................................................................................................. 30

REFERENCES ................................................................................................ 31

V
 LIST OF FIGURES

Fig 1. Map of Ghana showing agro-ecological zones ...................................... 13

Fig 2. Google Map showing Half Assini, a major coconut growing area in
Western Region ............................................................................................... 14
Fig 3. Google Map showing Ellembelle, a major coconut growing area in
Western Region ............................................................................................... 14
Fig 4. Google Map showing Adaklu, another coconut growing area in Volta
Region ............................................................................................................. 15
Fig 5. Google Map showing Ajumako, another coconut growing area in Central
Region ............................................................................................................. 16
Fig 6. Google Map showing Jomoro, a major coconut growing area in Western
Region ............................................................................................................. 17
Fig 7. Google Map showing Keta, a coconut growing area in Volta Region ..... 18
Fig 8. Google Map showing Nzema East, a major coconut growing area in
Western Region ............................................................................................... 19
Fig 9. Google Map showing Agbozume, a major coconut growing area in Volta
Region ............................................................................................................. 20
Fig 10. Spacing of coconut trees...................................................................... 21
Fig 11. Irrigation Practices in India ................................................................... 22
Fig 12. Intercropping between coconut trees – utilizing the remaining space .. 23
Fig 13. Intercropping between coconut trees. .................................................. 23
Fig 14. Coconut seedlings on nursery bed. ...................................................... 24
Fig 15. Coconut seedlings on nursery bed. ...................................................... 24
Fig 15. Coconut ready for transplanting ........................................................... 25
Fig 16. Planting in row. ................................................................................... 26
Fig. 17. Dimension of pit for transplanting coconut seedlings .......................... 26
Fig 18. Dwarf Coconut ..................................................................................... 27
Fig 19. Tall Coconut ......................................................................................... 28

VI
 ABSTRACT

This study is about the coconut fruit, the coconut tree, how coconut is cultivated
and the relevant information about the coconut industry globally. The study is
chaptered into four; the first chapter gives a general background and anthropology
of the coconut plant and current facts of the industry globally and within the
periphery of Ghana and Africa. The aim and objectives of the study are also
revealed in this chapter. The second chapter entails a number of literatures that
were reviewed in the course of the study. The third chapter discusses the findings
that were made while the final chapter concludes the study with recommendations.

VII
 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.0 BACKGROUND

Coconut (Cocos nucifera) has lost its origin to antiquity though some believe it may
come from either America (tropical South America and the Antilles), Southeast
Asian peninsular (probably Malaysia) or South Africa. The crop is believed to have
gotten to Ghana by ocean current and through the activities of missionaries in 1912
(Will, 1962). Coconut was first cultivated in Ghana as an estate crop at Keta, in the
North Western part of Ghana (Will, l.c. 1962). The commercialization of the crop
led to its expansion into the Western Region of Ghana where the climate is more
conducive for its cultivation (Chona and Adansi, 1970).

Coconut is grown in more than 93 countries of the world and Indonesia,

Philippines, India are the major producing countries of the world. Total world
coconut area is approximately12 million hectares; Around 93% is found in the
Asian and Pacific region (2010). The world production of coconut sums up to
approximately 55 million tonnes annually. Philippines, Indonesia and India were
the major producers of coconut fruits in 2010. The value of global coconut trade
was estimated at approximately US$6 billion in 2009 comprised of; coconut oil
US$2.9 billion, fresh nuts US$2.2 billion, desiccated coconut US$0.3 billion, other
kernel products US$0.3 billion, husk products US$0.3 billion, shell products
US$0.1 billion. Coconut is cultivated in the coastal savannah and forest zones of
Western, Central, Eastern, Ashanti, Volta and Brong Ahafo Regions. Area under
cultivation in Ghana is approximately 43,000 hectares, total of approximately 224
million nuts per annum. Approximately 1,406,435 kg of coconuts was exported,
valued at US$463,970 in 2008 (CSIR,2010).

In Ghana coconut is mainly produced in small holdings (0.5 - 5.0 ha). Of the annual
national production of around 224 million nuts, 179 million (80%) were produced
by smallholders from an area of 36,000 hectares. Research has shown that yields

1
in small holder farms are relatively low (Arkhurst, 1991). The average yield per
palm has been estimated at 120 nuts per annum (19,200 nuts/ha). Coconut
production in Ghana significantly increased over the past decades. In 1981, Ghana
produced 160,000 mt, 220,000 mt in 1993 and 223,977 mt in 2000 (FAO, 1993;
Gyimah, 2001). However, recent acceleration of the CSPW Disease has affected
most of the major producing areas and has reportedly caused a significant decline
in production. Western Region, and especially Jomoro District, concentrates most
of the Ghanaian production, especially in the Coastal areas.

This study zeroes in on coconut cultivation, practices and the coconut industry.

1.1 AIM OF THE STUDY

The study is aimed at assessing practices adopted in coconut cultivation.

1.2 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

To find out the types of coconuts

To find out practical technicalities in coconut farming

To find out the coconut growing areas in Ghana and current statistics in the
industry

1.3 METHODOLOGY

The methodology used in gathering information and useful data in this report is
from desk study and physical interaction with local relevant stakeholders in the
coconut industry in Ghana.

2
1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The study can be a very useful practical reference material for any individual or
organization who desires to go into coconut cultivation as the study also contains
an overview of coconut production in Ghana particularly within the year the study
was done.

3
 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0 INTRODUCTION

This chapter looks into several topics relevant to the subject matter of the study
and collates information and useful data in that regard.

2.1 ECOLOGY OF THE COCONUT PALM

The coconut palm is a very familiar plant in humid tropical regions. It adapts fairly
well to climatic conditions and is so appreciated in certain countries that it is found
beyond its ecological niches. Cultivation of coconuts requires substantial light and
the optimal temperature for growth of the palms is 27°C, with extremes of 13°C
and 35°C. Although most coconut palms are planted at an altitude of less than 500
metres, they can nonetheless do well above 1000 metres although low
temperatures compromise growth and yields. Coconut palms generally grow in
regions where precipitation is distributed evenly throughout the year and totals
some 1 500 to 2 500 mm and where relative humidity is high. This is why they are
found in particular in coastal zones that are temperate and where sea winds bring
high humidity (AIP-PRISMA, 2015).

The coconut palm has leathery semi-xerophile leaves and can withstand drought
periods lasting for several months. However, insufficient water may cause the
abortion of flowers, premature fruit fall and a decrease in the size of the nuts.

The coconut palm is very adaptable as regards soils as it can grow in marginal
zones and even those that are unsuitable for other crops. Palms are thus found in
highly saline sandy soils, acid sulphate mangrove soils and deep peat soils. Salt
has a beneficial effect on the size of coconuts.

The slender stipes and long pinnate leaves mean that these palms can resist

4
strong winds and even hurricanes (AIP-PRISMA, 2015).

2.2 USES OF THE COCONUT TREE

Coconut palms have many uses both for local populations and in developed
countries.

The wood is used in making sculptures, handles for tools, domestic utensils, piles
for houses, bridges, boats, flooring and furniture.

The inflorescences are incised to tap sweet sap served as a beverage (called
'toddy' in India). Fermented, this gives palm wine with a low alcohol content but
that can be distilled to make stronger 'arak'. Coconut vinegar is made from palm
wine.

Palm leaves are used for roofing. They are plaited to make mats, hats, brooms,
baskets, fans and geotextiles. Husk fibres are used to make matting, doormats,
brooms, ropes, mattresses, horticultural substrates and even car seats.

White and tender palm hearts (also called 'palmito', 'burglar's thigh', 'chonta', 'palm
cabbage' or 'swamp cabbage') are a much-appreciated food. Coconut shells are
used as recipients and also have industrial uses such as the manufacture of active
carbon for filtering gases and vapours (cigarette filters, filters for certain nuclear
radiation, etc.). The coconut palm is also used for fuel as it is or as charcoal, and
palm ash is used as a fertiliser.

Young coconuts provide a refreshing, thirst-quenching drink. Coconuts form a

plentiful food supply and are usually the main source of vegetable oil for the
populations of atolls. The pulp can be eaten raw or processed. It is dried to form
copra that is pressed to obtain coconut oil.

Production of coconut oil is nearly 2.1 million tonnes a year and is No. 7 in world
vegetable oil sales. First pressure oil is used in food products. However, hot
processed oil is used to make soap, shampoo, cosmetics, detergent, paint and
pharmaceuticals. Many names are used for it in the food industry: Végétaline®,

5
copra oil, etc.; it is also used in the manufacture of margarine. In addition to its
taste qualities, this oil is also appreciated for its ability to remain solid at high
temperatures (24°C) thanks to its saturated fatty acid composition. Coconut is used
in the food industry to flavour pastries, biscuits, chocolate, dairy products, ice
cream, etc.

Coconut milk and coconut cream are made by pressing a mixture of fresh grated
albumen and water. It is a traditional ingredient in several African and Asian dishes
and is used increasingly in Northern countries. The roots and milk of young palms
and coconut oil are also considered to have medicinal virtues. The palm is also
used as an ornamental plant. The gracious crown and slightly inclined trunk make
it a symbol of the tropics (AIP-PRISMA, 2015).

2.3 VARIETIES AND MODE OF MULTIPLICATION

There are thought to be more than 400 traditional varieties of coconut in the world.
Two ancestral lines probably formed the base of this varietal richness. The 'Niu
Kafa' type has elongated triangular fruits with a thick husk, floats easily and
germinates slowly and is though to have been disseminated by marine currents.
'Niu Vai' has round fruits and a thicker husk. It does not float as easily, it is early
and rich in liquid albumen. It was probably cultivated and then disseminated by
navigators. Repeated crosses between the two lines gave the various coconut
cultivars seen today.

The varieties can be classified simply in two large groups: 'dwarf' and 'tall'. More
than 95% of the palms grown in the world belong to the second group. The main
cultivars are 'Malaysia', 'Rennel', ' Vanuatu', 'Jamaica', 'West African' and 'East
Africa'. This type of palm can grow to 30 metres, bears large nuts but does not fruit
until it is 5 to 7 years old. The dwarf type is rarer and has a more slender trunk, a
more rapid succession of inflorescences and fruits earlier (after two years). The
most common varieties include 'Malayan Yellow Dwarf', 'Brazilian Green Dwarf',

6
'Ghana Yellow Dwarf' and 'Equatorial Guinea Green Dwarf'.

Dwarf x Tall crosses (hybrid varieties) can combine or even amplify the agronomic
advantages of the two groups. Results of research in Côte d’Ivoire show that 35 of
out of 135 hybrids tested produced 65% more than the standard 'West African' tall
variety. Some even yield twice as much, such as 'PB 12'1 (hybrid of 'Malayan
Yellow Dwarf' x tall 'West African') which has been widely planted in South-East
Asia. It is estimated that hybrid varieties form 15% of all the coconut palms planted
in the last ten years. They include the 'KB' and 'KINA' series from Indonesia, the
'PCA 15' series from the Philippines and the 'PB' (such as 'PB 121') from Côte
d’Ivoire.

Coconut palms are generally multiplied using seeds. They are grown in nursery
seedbeds or in polybags with regular applications of fertiliser. The seedling are
planted out after 5 to 7 months.

2.4 PESTS AND DISEASES

Coconut is targeted by numerous pests and diseases that cause varying degrees
of damage. One of the diseases that forms the greatest threat to production is
'lethal yellowing'. Caused by a phytoplasma (bacterium), it results in
depigmentation of the palms, premature nut drop, the death of the single bud and
finally of the palm itself. Kerala wilt in India and cadang-cadang in the Philippines
are serious viral diseases. The conditions of cultivation of coconuts are ideal for
the development of certain fungal pathogens such as Phytophthora palmivora,
Ganoderma boninense, Pestalotia palmarum, etc.

Pests include numerous insects such as beetles (Oryctes monoceros in Africa,

Promecotheca spp., Brontispa longissimo, Rhynchophorus spp. in Asia and the
Pacific). Biological control with Bacillus thuringiensis can be used to control
caterpillars (Hidari irava, Latoia pallida, etc.) that eat young shoots. Bugs
(Pseudotherapus wayi in East Africa and Pseudotherapus devastans in equatorial

7
Africa) attack flowers and young fruits and can be managed using weaver ants,
their worst natural enemy (Oecophylla longinoda in Africa and Oecophylla
smaragdina in Asia and the Pacific). Damage by termites must also be prevented
in nurseries and in young plantations. Coconuts are generally picked directly from
the palms to prevent production losses caused by rats and thefts in the plantations.
In some countries, bamboo canes 25 metres long are used; they have a knife at
the end to detach ripe bunches. In Thailand, some farmers use trained monkeys
(Macacus nemestrina) that become true agricultural workers as they can gather
up to a thousand nuts a day!

(Source: Market News Service of CIRAD - October 2011)

2.5TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS OF COCONUT CULTIVATION (SOURCE:

WWW.AGRICOOP.NIC.IN)

2.5.1 AGRO - CLIMATIC REQUIREMENTS

Coconut is essentially a tropical plant but has been found to grow under varying
agro climatic conditions. The mean annual temperature for optimum growth and
maximum yield is stated to be 270C with a diurnal variation of 60C to 70C and
relative humidity more than 60 %. The coconut palm thrives well up to an altitude
of 600 m above MSL. The coconut palm thrives well under an evenly distributed
annual rainfall ranging from 1000 mm to 3000 mm. However, a well distributed
rainfall of about 2000 mm is the ideal rainfall for proper growth and higher yield.

2.5.2 SOIL

The coconut palm can tolerate wide range of soil conditions. But the palm does
show certain growth preferences. A variety of factors such as drainage, soil depth,
soil fertility and layout of the land has great influence on the growth of the palm.
The major soil types that support coconut in India are laterite, alluvial, red sandy
loam, coastal sandy and reclaimed soils with a pH ranging from 5.2 to 8.0.

8
2.5.3 SELECTION OF SITE

Soil with a minimum depth of 1.2m and fairly good water holding capacity is
preferred for coconut cultivation. Shallow soils with underlying hard rock, low lying
areas subjected to water stagnation and clayey soils should be avoided. Proper
supply of moisture either through well distributed rainfall or irrigation and sufficient
drainage are essential for coconut.

2.5.4 PREPARATION OF LAND

Size of the pit depends on the soil type and water table. In laterite soils large pits
of the size 1.2m x 1.2m x 1.2 m may be dug and filled up with loose soil, powdered
cow dung and ash up to a depth of 60 cm before planting. In loamy soils, pits of
size 1m x 1m x 1m filled with top soil to height of 50 cm is recommended. While
filling the pits, two layers of coconut husk can be arranged at the bottom of the pit
with concave surface facing upwards for moisture conservation. After arranging
each layer, BHC 10% DP should be sprinkled on the husk to prevent termite attack.
In laterite soils, common salt @ 2 kg per pit may be applied, six months prior, on
the floor of the pit to soften the hard pans.

2.5.5 SPACING

In general square system of planting with a spacing of 7.5m x 7.5m is

recommended for coconut. This will accommodate 177 palms per hectare.
However, spacing of 7.5 to 10 m is practised in various coconut growing regions
of the country.

2.5.6 PLANTING MATERIAL & PLANTING

Vigorous seedlings which are one year old, having minimum of six leaves and girth
of 10 cm at the collar level should be selected for planting in the main field. Early
splitting of leaves in the seedlings could be a criterion for selecting good seedlings.
However, 18 - 24 month old seedlings are preferred for planting in water logged
areas. Planting the seedlings during May with the onset of pre-monsoon rain is
ideal.

9
2.5.7 MAINTENANCE OF COCONUT GARDEN

Regular manuring from the first year of planting is essential to ensure good
vegetative growth, early flowering and bearing and high yield. Organic manure at
the rate of 30 kg per palm per year may be applied with the onset of south west
monsoon when soil moisture content is high. Different forms of organic manures
like compost, farmyard manure, bonemeal, fish meal, neem cake, groundnut cake,
gingelly cake, etc. could be used for this purpose. Green manure crops like
sunhemp, glyricidia, dhaincha, etc. could also be grown as intercrops to
incorporate in the coconut basins later.

2.5.8 MANURES AND FERTILIZERS

Regular manuring right from the first year of planting is essential for good
vegetative growth, early flowering and bearing and sustainable yield of coconut
palms. The first application of chemical fertilizers should be done after three
months of planting.

2.5.9 IRRIGATION

Coconut responds well to summer irrigation i.e. summer irrigation @ 40 litres per
palm per week will increase the yield of nuts by 50%. Under basin irrigation, 200
litres per palm once in four days will be beneficial. In areas where water is scarce
drip irrigation system can be adopted. The quantity of water recommended for drip
irrigation in coconut is 66 per cent of the open pan evaporation.

2.5.10 INTERCULTURE OPERATIONS

Tillage operations like digging, ploughing, forming small mounds during August -
September and spreading them in December - January, making shallow basins
with a radius of 2m before the onset of monsoon and filling it up at the close of
monsoon are beneficial to the trees. Regular inter cultivation needs to be adopted
to keep weeds under control. In sandy soils, intercultivationmay not be necessary.

10
2.5.11 COCONUT BASED CROPPING SYSTEMS

To maximise the utilisation of soil and sunlight in the coconut garden, intercropping
can be adopted with a variety of crops like pineapple, banana, elephant foot yam,
groundnut, chillies, sweet potato, tapioca etc. upto 8-10 years. During 10-22 years
of age of the palms, crop like colocasia which can tolerate shade can be cultivated.
In older plantations, perennials like cocoa, pepper, cinnamon, clove and nutmeg
can be grown as mixed crops along with intercrops. Mixed farming by raising
fodder grasses such as hybrid napier or guinea grass along with leguminous
fodder crops in coconut garden has been found to be profitable which can support
rearing of milch animals.

2.5.12 HARVESTING

Coconuts are harvested at varying intervals in a year. The frequency differs in

different areas depending upon the yield of the trees. In well maintained and high
yielding gardens, bunches are produced regularly and harvesting is done once a
month.

Coconuts become mature in about 12 months after the opening of the spathe. It is
the ripe coconut which is the source of major coconut products. Nuts which are
eleven months old give fibre of good quality and can be harvested in the tracts
where green husks are required for the manufacture of coir fibre. Economic life of
the coconut palm is about 60 years.

2.6 COCONUT CULTIVATION IN GHANA

In Ghana coconut is mainly produced in small holdings (0.5 - 5.0 ha). Of the annual
national production of around 224 million nuts, 179 million (80%) were produced
by smallholders from an area of 36,000 hectares. Research has shown that yields
in small holder farms are relatively low (Arkhurst, 1991). The average yield per
palm has been estimated at 120 nuts per annum (19,200 nuts/ha). Coconut
production in Ghana significantly increased over the past decades. In 1981, Ghana
produced 160,000 mt, 220,000 mt in 1993 and 223,977 mt in 2000 (FAO, 1993;

11
Gyimah, 2001). However, recent acceleration of the CSPW Disease has affected
most of the major producing areas and has reportedly caused a significant decline
in production.

Western Region, and especially Jomoro District, concentrates most of the

Ghanaian production, especially in the Coastal areas (MoFA, 2014).

Coconut Growing Areas in Ghana (Maps)

12
FIG 1. MAP OF GHANA SHOWING AGRO-ECOLOGICAL ZONES

13
Fig 2. Google Map showing Half Assini, a major coconut growing area in Western
Region

Fig 3. Google Map showing Ellembelle, a major coconut growing area in Western
Region

14
FIG 4. GOOGLE MAP SHOWING ADAKLU, ANOTHER COCONUT GROWING AREA
IN VOLTA REGION

15
Fig 5. Google Map showing Ajumako, another coconut growing area in Central
Region

16
FIG 6. GOOGLE MAP SHOWING JOMORO, A MAJOR COCONUT GROWING AREA
IN WESTERN REGION

17
Fig 7. Google Map showing Keta, a coconut growing area in Volta Region

18
FIG 8. GOOGLE MAP SHOWING NZEMA EAST, A MAJOR COCONUT GROWING
AREA IN WESTERN REGION

19
FIG 9. Google map showing Agbozume, A major Coconut growing area in Volta Region

20
 CHAPTER THREE

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

3.0 INTRODUCTION

This chapter highlights the most relevant findings from the desk study and literature
that were reviewed in the previous chapter. Also, the chapter draws from the
information obtained to make a case study of coconut cultivation on an acre of
land.

Fig 10. Spacing of Coconut trees

3.1 SPACING OF COCONUTS

(Source: www.slideshare.net/mobile/sshelvys/cultivation-practices-of-coconut)

Using the spacing illustrated above with either a tall or short variety of coconut on
an acre of land, it should be expected that a total of sixty-nine (69) trees would
occupy the land, and an average of 6000 nuts could be harvested annually. The
coconut tree grows well under the conditions of rainfall levels from 1000mm to
3000mm at 2000ft height from mean sea level, 70% air moisture, sandy soil with
very rich humus content, good draining and soil pH between 6-7. It is very
important to note that adopting row planting, that is two rows technique, a farmer
can plant 100 to 140 trees on an acre. However, there could be a reduction in the
number of harvest between the 7th and 12th year, nonetheless from the 13th year

21
forward, full yield should be expected.

(Source: www.pavalarajan.com/coconut%20row%20planting.html)

Using the spacing isllustrated, the coconut trees occupy only 20% of the land and
consumes 30% of the total sunlight received in that area; therefore there is more
space left for planting other crops at discretion of the farmer.

Water 100L of water a day, a coconut tree on a good soil at a specific soil fertility
can yield 50-75 nuts on the average. However, with good manure management a
tree can yield between 100 -140 nuts per annum. Dwarf coconut trees bear fruits
after 3 - 5 years while tall coconut trees bear fruits after 4-6 years. In a year, both
variety of trees can have 3-4 harvest cycles on the average.

(Source: www.pavalarajan.com/coconut%20row%20planting.html)

Fig 11. Irrigation practices in India

22
Fig 12. Intercropping between coconut trees – utilizing the remaining space

Fig 13. Intercropping between coconut trees.

23
Fig 14. Coconut seedlings on nursery bed.

Fig 15. Coconut seedlings on nursery bed.

24
Fig 15. Coconut ready for transplanting

25
Fig 16. Planting in Row.

Fig. 17. Dimension of pit for transplanting coconut seedlings

26
FIG 18. Dwarf Coconut

27
FIG 19. Tall Coconut

28
 CHAPTER FOUR

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

4.1 RECOMMENDATION

The coconut Industry is obviously a promising one globally. However, there seem
to be much more room and space in the African market and promising
opportunities that are probably yet to be maximized and explored. The following
recommendations are made.

1. It is recommended that when venturing into coconut cultivation, all the

technicalities involved in coconut cultivation as discussed in the study are adhered
to in order to yield maximum output.

2. It is advisable for any organization that desires to be on top in the industry to

have their own farm while outsourcing from local farmers in the coconut growing
areas listed in the report.

3. There is enough space in the coconut market, especially in Africa

4. Any new startup in this industry would have to scale up super fast in order to
assume an advantageous competitive position in the market.

5. Focus must be shifted to processing and preserving the coconut water to

enhance exportation of the product.

6. Entering into this business might be quite easy for anyone with startup capital,
hence the huge number of competitors; however, to be able to stay in the game, it
will be advisable to partner with other relevant players in the supply chain and
leverage.

7. Coconut water happens to be the second most patronized of the coconut

products, the first being coconut oil. Thus, while starting with coconut water and
focusing all attention on it in the first few years, research should be done on
assessing the coconut oil market as well.

29
8. it is important to leverage on GLOBAL GAP option 2 in order to not just meet
global stadards but also assist the local farmers in Ghana and the continent as a
whole.

4.2 CONCLUSION

From https://www.peacefmonline.com/pages/showbiz/news/201910/393504.php,
the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Exports Promotion Authority (GEPA), Ms
Afua Asabea Asare, has said the authority intends to increase coconut production
from the current 49,000 hectares to 300,000 hectares by 2022. She said currently
the Coconut Farmers Association of Ghana (COFAG) was being supported with
capacity building training to acquire Global GAP certification to produce to meet
the stringent international standards.

In conclusion, it is worth reiterating that the coconut industry is definitely a lucrative

one to be in and is also a competitive one for that matter. The entire coconut
industry is to be worth USD$ 15b by 2024. The industry equally has giant players
and other smaller startups at different levels of the value chain, especially at the
base of the triangle, all of whom constitute the competitive ecosystem. As
competitive as the industry is, the market share in the next few years would be
dominated by those who play their cards well.

30
REFERENCES

WILLS (J. B.). 1962. Agriculture and Land Use in Ghana. London, Oxford
University Press, 353-354p

CHONA (B. L.) and (M. A.) ADANSI. 1970. Coconut in Ghana. Crops Research
Institute Bulletin No. 3. Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
Kwadaso, Kumasi GHANA.

FAO, (1993) State of Food and Agriculture – Regional Review- Developing

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