Palm Cultivation Research Articles

Revolutionizing Palm Dates Harvesting with Multirotor Flying Vehicles

This study addresses the challenges of traditional date palm harvesting, which is often labor-intensive and hazardous, by introducing an innovative solution utilizing multirotor flying vehicles (MRFVs). Unlike conventional methods such as hydraulic lifts and ground-based robotic manipulators, the proposed system integrates a quadrotor equipped with a winch and a suspended robotic arm with a precision saw. Controlled remotely via a mobile application, the quadrotor navigates to targeted branches on the date palm tree, where the robotic arm, guided by live video feedback from integrated cameras, accurately severs the branches. Extensive testing in a controlled environment demonstrates the system’s potential to significantly improve harvesting efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. This approach offers a promising alternative to traditional harvesting methods, providing a scalable solution for date palm cultivation, particularly in regions with large-scale plantations. This work marks a significant advancement in the field of agricultural automation, offering a safer, more efficient method for harvesting date palms and contributing to the growing body of knowledge in automated farming technologies.

Development of Elite Mother Palms from the Best-Performing Slow-Vertical-Growth Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) Genotypes

Harvesting is a serious issue in oil palm plantations after 15–20 years owing to the increased height of the trees (>9 m). The slow vertical growth of the oil palm dura genotypes is desired for increasing the D × P progenies’ productivity and economic life span upto ten years. A reduced height increment has a long-term impact on harvesting costs. The current study assessed 308 genotypes generated from African germplasm. Over a three year period, the biometric properties of eleven D × D crosses were evaluated in order to quantify genetic parameters and phenotypic correlations, and principal component analysis was performed for genetic attributes of the better-performing dwarf progenies in terms of yield. The evaluated genotypes have a highly significant influence (p < 0.01) on the majority of characteristics. The progenies yielded between 165 and 208 kg of fresh fruit bunches (FFBs) per palm every year. The height increment (HI) varied between 17% and 19%, with an overall average of 18%. Genotypes G8, G300, and G221 had the lowest yearly height increments, measuring 28.98, 29.19, and 30.87 cm, respectively. The outcome of the present study shows that they are slow-height-increment genotypes with a high FFB yield (>25 T/Ha). The creation of dura parents with a slow height increment in combination with a high bunch weight helps for prolonging the productive life of the palm to more than 35 years, adding value to obtain distinct oil palm varieties. Overall, this targeted breeding effort towards developing dwarf oil palm hybrids reflects a strategic approach to addressing specific challenges in oil palm cultivation, ultimately helping to promote the oil palm sector globally.

Profitability of Oil Palm Production and Processing in Edo State, Nigeria

This work presents a comprehensive literature and studies conducted on the economic point of oil palm cultivation and processing and the factors that influences profitability of the sector as well as its contribution to the socioeconomic development of the farmers in Edo state. The study highlights the importance of oil palm production and processing in Edo, a major oil palm producing state in Nigeria.

Modeling the Climatic Requirements for Date Palm Cultivation in the Badra Region Using Predictive Statistical Methods

Modeling the Climatic Requirements for Date Palm Cultivation in the Badra Region Using Predictive Statistical Methods

Water productivity and date palm production: a field study in Biskra Region

In southern Algeria, agriculture is mainly based on groundwater irrigation, leading to significant water consumption, Improving water productivity in field-scale irrigation is critical for sustainable water management and the protection of this valuable resource. In the present study, to analyze water productivity, data were collected on the volumes of irrigation water applied and the resulting yields from 24 farmers through a survey questionnaire during the 2022-2023 agricultural season water productivity for date palm cultivation was evaluated in Biskra region of Algeria. The study found that water productivity values ranged from 0.4 to 1.1 in kg m-3 with an Average of 0.83 kg m-3, consequently, producing one kilogram of dates requires 1220.35 liters of water. Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the water productivity of date palms was moderate compared to the results of other studies conducted in various regions around the world. This research highlights the critical need for strategies to enhance water-use efficiency, including the implementation of advanced irrigation technologies and improved management practices.

Pollen Preservation Approaches in Date Palm Cultivation: Assessing Effects on Viability, Fruit Quality, and Yield in ‘Mundra Selection-3’

Pollen Preservation Approaches in Date Palm Cultivation: Assessing Effects on Viability, Fruit Quality, and Yield in ‘Mundra Selection-3’

Socioeconomic Profiling and Dynamics: Insights from a Rural Community Study in Kedah

This study provides a socio-economic profile of Mahang and Nagalilit, two sub-districts in Kulim, Kedah, Malaysia. Residents of Mahang primarily rely on rubber tapping and oil palm cultivation, industries vulnerable to monsoon weather. In Desa Keda Nagalilit, locals are employed in the nearby hi-tech industrial area, oil palm plantations, or as shop assistants. Many households earn below the minimum wage, compelling residents to take on multiple jobs for financial stability. Data was systematically collected through questionnaires focusing on household demographics, socio-economic conditions, and lifestyle patterns. The analysis offers valuable insights into the living conditions and challenges these communities face, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The research revealed income disparities and variations in living standards between sub-districts, underscoring the socio-economic impact of the pandemic. It further examined how variables such as age, income, employment status, and education correlate with financial strain, mental health issues, and disruptions to daily life. Findings demonstrate significant relationships between socioeconomic factors and the pandemic's effects, emphasizing the need for targeted measures to alleviate poverty, improve education, and enhance residents’ overall quality of life while addressing financial and mental health challenges

Environmental agricultural practices in the Ziban palm groves: Should we choose between yield and sustainability?

Since antiquity, with transhumant breeding, the cultivation of the date palm has been the main agricultural vector around which social and economic activities are articulated in oasis regions. The conduct of this culture is guided by a specific and complex technical itinerary. The objective of the present study aims to identify and characterize the main sustainable agricultural practices within the palm groves of the Ziban in south-eastern Algeria and the sensitivity of date palm farmers to environmental practices as well as their degree of adaptation. Our study is based on face-to-face surveys conducted among 50 producers among 10 date palm areas in the region. It brings to light that despite the production developments, date palm farming in this region remains dominated by extensive and traditional agriculture, either due to a lack of means, knowledge, or environmental commitment. As a result, several sustainable practices remain widely shared in the majority of palm groves. Similarly, it appears that several larger and newly established producers are committed to these new practices which have various objectives in particular, to protect the environment, and to sustain the culture and the quality of the products.

Government Policy Influence on Land Use and Land Cover Changes: A 30-Year Analysis

This study investigated land use and land cover (LULC) patterns and changes in the Bandon Bay area of Thailand from 1991 to 2021 using satellite imagery, the first comprehensive effort to assess historical LULC trends over the past 30 years and forecast future LULC scenarios using the CA-Markov model for 2031, 2041, and 2051. Results showed the predominant LULC during 1991-2001 was the abandoned paddy fields, and during 2006-2021 was the oil palm plantations. During 1991-2001, the abandoned paddy fields changed significantly, with a net gain of 59.28 km2. From 2001-2011 and 2011-2021, the oil palm plantations experienced the most crucial change, with a net gain of 292.94 km2 and 70.06 km2. In 2031, 2041, and 2051, the LULC was predicted to be oil palms, shrimp farms, mangroves, and urban and built-up lands. The LULC changes were consistent with the government policies implemented and indicated government policy as a driving force in LULC dynamics on Bandon Bay area forestry, aquaculture, and agriculture, particularly on oil palm cultivation. Government management and regulation on land use is crucial for reducing the expansion of agricultural areas, especially oil palm plantations and aquaculture areas, to mitigate negative impacts on the Bandon Bay ecosystem. Doi: 10.28991/ESJ-2024-08-05-06 Full Text: PDF

Assessing the Impact of Sustainable Independent Oil Palm Cultivation on Rural Development: A Case Study of Angkola Sangkunur Sub-District, South Tapanuli Regency

This study evaluates the impact of sustainable independent oil palm cultivation on rural development in the Angkola Sangkunur sub-district, South Tapanuli Regency, Indonesia. The research focuses on five key aspects: legal, technical cultivation, environmental management, labor, and institutional factors. Data was collected through a combination of primary and secondary sources, with primary data obtained via questionnaires distributed to a probability-based sample of 165 respondents. The analysis employed multiple linear regression to assess the influence of each aspect on regional development, with hypotheses tested using both F-tests and t-tests. The results reveal that the technical cultivation and institutional aspects exert a significant positive influence on rural development, underscoring the critical role of advanced agricultural practices and strong governance structures. While legal and environmental management aspects also have positive effects, their impact was not statistically significant, indicating that these factors may require further development or longer timeframes to manifest significant outcomes. Conversely, the labor aspect showed a negative but statistically insignificant effect, suggesting that the costs associated with implementing sustainable labor practices may pose challenges for smallholder farmers. This study concludes that enhancing technical capabilities and institutional frameworks offers the most immediate and substantial benefits for rural development in the region. However, a holistic approach that also addresses legal, environmental, and labor issues is essential for achieving long-term sustainability. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, stakeholders, and researchers focused on sustainable agriculture and rural development.

Characterization of the Synergistic Effect of Fungal Isolates in Suppressing Ganoderma boninense and Enhancing Oil Palm Growth

ABSTRACTThe globally vital oil palm, a major oil producer, confronts productivity challenges due to Ganoderma boninense (Gb), causing output decline. Chemical control efforts have proven ineffective, prompting exploration of microbial‐based biocontrol. While single fungal biocontrol research exists, the impact of employing multiple biocontrols concurrently to combat Ganoderma and enhance oil palm growth remains uncharted. This study examined four soil‐derived fungal isolates for their ability to antagonize Gb PER71 in vitro. Molecular identification categorized them as Talaromyces spp. and Penicillium sp. Moreover, all isolates were revealed to have at least three plant growth‐promoting (PGP) traits and were shown to have phosphoric hydrolase, ester hydrolase, peptide hydrolase, and glycosidase activities which are essential for plant growth. Furthermore, the synergistic evaluation of fungal isolates was tested against Gb PER71. One out of six combinations of fungal isolates showed a synergistic effect in vitro, and two showed a synergistic effect in planta. The application of single and combined fungal isolates tested in planta also suppressed Gb PER71 and enhanced oil palm growth compared to control groups. The findings indicate the promising potential of these isolates as biocontrol agents (BCAs) and bioformulations against Gb in oil palm cultivation.

Carbon accumulation in the soil and biomass of macauba palm commercial plantations

Commercial cultivation of the Macauba palm is growing due to its agro-energy potential. This study quantified carbon stock in two macauba plantations (4.8 and 9.0 years old), considering carbon stored in soil and biomass. We assessed total organic carbon (TOC) stocks in labile (EOC and LF-C) and non-labile (NL-C) soil fractions, comparing these with a forest regenerating for over 30 years. Soil samples were collected within the palm plantation (rows and inter-rows) and the forest area at five depths (0–10, 10–20, 20–40, 40–60, and 60–100 cm). The impact of plantation age and sampling position on TOC stocks and organic matter fractions across different soil layers (0–100 cm) was assessed. The Carbon Management Index (CMI) was calculated to evaluate carbon recovery. Plantation age and sampling position influenced soil TOC stocks across all depths up to 1 m. Higher TOC and NL-C soil stocks were observed in the older plantation (9.0 years) and inter-row. EOC and LF-C fractions varied by soil layer. The inter-row region of the 9.0-year-old plantation exhibited higher carbon recovery based on the CMI. Over 4.2 years of palm cultivation (between 4.8 and 9.0 years), carbon accumulation in biomass and soil reached 75.36 Mg C ha−1. These findings underscore the potential of commercial macauba plantations to enhance soil carbon stocks rapidly, particularly in inter-row areas. Plantations younger than a decade surpassed the soil carbon stock of a forest regenerating for over 30 years, highlighting significant environmental benefits of macauba cultivation, including soil and biomass carbon sequestration.

Mechanical Performance of a Hot Mix Asphalt Modified with Biochar Obtained from Oil Palm Mesocarp Fiber

A recently used material that shows environmental and technical advantages for use as an asphalt binder modifier is biochar (BC). Different biomasses can be converted into BC by pyrolysis. One agro-industrial biomass that is abundant in copious quantities is oil palm mesocarp fiber (OPMF) obtained from African palm cultivation. In the present study, the use of a BC obtained from OPMF (BC-OPMF) as a modifier of asphalt binder (AC type) to produce a hot mix asphalt (HMA) was evaluated. This type of BC has not been investigated or reported in the reference literature as a binder and/or asphalt mix modifier. Initially, AC was modified with BC in three ratios (BC/AC = 5, 10, and 15%, with respect to mass) to perform penetration, softening point, and rotational viscosity tests; rheological characterization at high and intermediate temperatures; and scanning electron microscope (SEM) visualization. Based on this experimental phase, BC/AC = 10% was chosen to manufacture the modified HMA. Resistance parameters under monotonic loading (stability—S, flow—F, S/F ratio of the Marshall test, and indirect tensile strength in dry—ITSD and wet—ITSC conditions) and cyclic loading (resilient modulus, permanent deformation, and fatigue resistance under stress-controlled conditions) were evaluated on the control HMA (AC unmodified) and the modified HMA. Additionally, the tensile strength ratio (TSR) was calculated to evaluate the resistance to moisture damage. Abrasion and raveling resistance were evaluated by performing Cantabro tests. BC-OPMF is shown to be a sustainable and promising material for modifying asphalt binders for those seeking to increase stiffness and rutting resistance in high-temperature climates, resistance to moisture damage, raveling, and fatigue without increasing the optimum asphalt binder content (OAC), changing the volumetric composition of the HMA or increasing the manufacturing and construction temperatures.

Optimal Hybrid Renewable Energy System to Accelerate a Sustainable Energy Transition in Johor, Malaysia

As the world’s second-largest palm oil producer, Malaysia heavily depends on its extensive oil palm cultivation, which accounts for nearly 90% of the country’s lignocellulosic biomass waste. Approximately 20–22 tonnes of empty fruit bunches (EFBs) can be derived from an initial yield of 100 tonnes of fresh fruit bunches (FFBs) from oil palm trees. The average annual amount of EFBs produced in Johor is 3233 tonnes per day. Recognising that urban areas contribute significantly to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, and to support Malaysia’s transition from fossil fuel-based energy to a low-carbon energy system, this research employed HOMER Pro software 3.18.3 to develop an optimal hybrid renewable energy system integrating solar and biomass (EFB) energy sources in Johor, Malaysia. The most cost-effective system (solar–biomass) consists of 4075 kW solar photovoltaics, a 2100 kW biomass gasifier, 9363 battery units and 1939 kW converters. This configuration results in a total net present cost (NPC) of USD 44,596,990 and a levelised cost of energy (LCOE) of USD 0.2364/kWh. This system satisfies the residential load demand via 6,020,427 kWh (64.7%) of solar-based and 3,286,257 kWh (35.3%) of biomass-based electricity production, with an annual surplus of 2,613,329 kWh (28.1%). The minimal percentages of unmet electric load and capacity shortage, both <0.1%, indicate that all systems can meet the power demand. In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights into the economic viability and technical feasibility of powering the Kulai district with a solar–biomass system.

Sampling Method to Estimate Fresh Fruit Bunch Production in Oil Palm Using Geostatistical Techniques

In oil palm cultivation, harvesting is a task that demands the most attention, resources, and accuracy. The logistics of harvesting activities, from bunch cutting through delivery to processing, are organized as a function of yield per hectare, and this planning depends on production samples collected from plantations to estimate the number of fresh fruit bunches that will be harvested per crop management unit. Conventionally, production is estimated through sampling grids, most commonly every five rows and every five palms (5 × 5), 7 × 7, or 10 × 10. Sampling density, however, does not typically result from a statistically rigorous method. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to define, using geostatistics, adequate sampling grids for estimating production. Specifically, seven lots in different Colombian oil palm-growing regions with planting ages between 5 and 9 years were analyzed, and the number of reproductive structures of all oil palms was recorded. From the semivariogram of each lot, different models were proposed, fitted, and cross-validated. For each sampling grid, all possible samples were simulated in the respective lots to determine the degree of accuracy in estimating oil palm production. The optimal sampling grids differed between lots, ranging from 3 × 3 to 15 × 15.

Evaluation of environmental impact of small-scale oil palm cultivation in Ghana: A life cycle assessment of Juaben Municipal District

Abstract Palm oil has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its various uses in the food, cosmetics, and biofuel industries, resulting in a high global demand. In the 2021/22 marketing year, palm oil production reached approximately 73.8 million metric tons, up from 73 million in 2020/21. Palm oil yields more per area than other oil crops such as sunflower, soybean, and rapeseed. It is also economically feasible to grow in areas where other crops typically do not thrive, providing a source of income for many people. Palm oil cultivation has also contributed to economic growth, rural community development, and poverty reduction in disadvantaged regions, especially in Indonesia, Ghana, and Malaysia. The study’s findings indicate that Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB) production significantly contributes to the global warming index. The study also shows that the eutrophication effect resulting from fertiliser usage was lower, with a total value of 1.8 kg PO4 equivalent, which is lower than the values reported in previous studies. This is attributed to the common usage of fertilisers in the study area due to financial constraints. An in-depth analysis of small-scale farmers’ local vegetable oil production was also studied, focusing on the challenges encountered during oil palm cultivation and processing.

Prediksi Jumlah Produksi Kelapa Sawit di Indonesia Menggunakan Algoritma Backpropagation

Indonesia is a country that has advantages in the agricultural sector which has the largest plantation and agricultural areas in ASEAN, one of which is oil palm plantations. Indonesia is one of the largest crude palm oil (CPO) business players in the world. More and more palm oil mills and oil palm land are being converted to oil palm cultivation, because oil palm plantations are more beneficial for farmers and palm oil processors. Palm oil plantations are still trying in several ways to maintain stable market demand, one of which is by increasing palm oil production, because palm oil is the main source of other product derivatives. Palm oil production fluctuates every month, but the ups and downs are caused by many factors, namely climate, rainfall, soil fertility, selling prices, and others. Reduced production has a direct impact on the income of farmers and workers in the sector, which in turn can cause economic instability. Actions are needed to ensure the continuity of this industry, one of which is by making predictions. One prediction technique is the Backpropagation artificial neural network. The prediction model can provide very accurate estimates of palm oil production at the provincial level. By analyzing historical data, this research can identify patterns that can help predict future palm oil production. The urgency lies in the strategic role of palm oil in the Indonesian economy.

Current status of Indonesia’s palm oil products and their competitiveness in the global market

Abstract Oil palm is recognised as contributing significantly to crucial economic growth in Indonesia. Still, it is often considered a severe threat to tropical forest ecosystems due to the large amount of forest conversion for oil palm cultivation. Also, oil palm business and marketing processes have many opportunities and challenges. In response, this research examines and reveals in depth the current state of Indonesia’s palm oil business and marketing in the global market. By interviewing, reviewing the literature, and conducting a stakeholder analysis, we found that Indonesia has high competition for global palm oil, with processed products such as Refined Palm Oil and Oleochemical Mix dominating the world market and high export value growth. However, the export value for crude oil, such as palm oil and palm kernel oil, in 2020 - 2021 is low due to government policies for downstream and industrialisation programs. The government, as policymakers, the oil palm funding agency (BPDPKS), and the oil palm companies are key players with high interest and influence in the sustainable development of the oil palm business. European Union and Press can be context setters with low interest but high influence on business and marketing processes in Indonesia.

Socio-economic analysis of oil palm farmers in Kuantan Singingi District, Riau

Abstract Oil Palm is one of the most important sources of vegetable oil today. It has become more critical when utilised as a renewable energy source. These advantages make it a commodity of choice for both farmers and corporations. Despite controversies such as deforestation, oil palm expansion is unstoppable because more and more people invest and convert their agricultural land into oil palm plantations. One of the cases happened in Kuantan Singingi District, where many farmers have converted their agricultural land into oil palm plantations. This study explains the factors influencing farmers to convert their plantation land into oil palm plantations. This study also demonstrates the impact of the conversion on improving their economy. The expectation of high profits in oil palm yields influences the diversion of the land. However, the conversion to oil palm is not always paralleled with improving farmers’ welfare. Through a qualitative approach using FGDs and interviews with oil palm farmers in two villages in Kuantan Singingi District, Land conversion to oil palm plantations carried out by Kuantan Singingi farmers is predominantly influenced by technical factors, market access and prices. The transformation that occurred has not been able to improve their economy. Some indications of this failure are a lack of business capital, limited land ownership, and limited knowledge of oil palm cultivation.

Assessing the Susceptibility and Tolerance of Oil Palm Cultivars to Leaf-Bending: A Comparative Physiological and Nutritional Balance Study

Selecting the best oil palm cultivars adapted to specific agro-climatic conditions helps ensure fruit and oil production success. Many biotic and abiotic problems can limit the productivity of the crop, some of which have not yet been described, as well as their symptoms and degree of impact. In oil palm, a disturbance known as leaf-bending occurs, in which the palms present a bending or breakage of the petiole in the leaves, representing a significant challenge for oil palm cultivation. Although leaf-bending in oil palm plantations is known, its effect on the palm’s performance and its possible causes are unknown. Thus, the objectives of the present work were to describe and propose a quantitative way to evaluate leaf-bending in different cultivars (Elaeis guineensis Jacq. and the interspecific O×G hybrid) and to evaluate the disturbance effect on the physiology and nutritional balance of the oil palm. The results showed that most leaves from leaf rings three and four of the palm phyllotaxis have the highest affectation, with 74% leaf-bending. The cultivars with a Deli × La Mé and Coarí × La Mé genetic background were the most tolerant; however, the Deli × AVROS and Deli × Yangambi genetic crosses were the most susceptible. The difference in the affectation between the groups was 60% to 70%. Leaf-bending affected physiological parameters such as photosynthesis, transpiration, and stomatal conductance. Thus, below the second ring of leaves, the affected plants’ physiological parameters decreased between 40% and 50%. The nutritional diagnosis showed that the most sensitive cultivars to leaf-bending were Deli × AVROS, which presented the highest average index of nutritional balance (IBNm), indicating that this genetic cross had the highest nutritional imbalance. On the contrary, the most tolerant cultivars were Deli × La Mé, which presented the lowest IBNm, associated with a better nutritional condition.