Explore key principles of arecanut nutrition in horticulture, covering essential nutrients, deficiency symptoms, and best fertilization practices. Assess your understanding of effective nutrient management to optimize arecanut crop health and yield.
Which macronutrient is considered most crucial for the early vegetative growth of arecanut palms in well-drained soils?
Explanation: Nitrogen plays a central role in promoting lush vegetative growth during the early stages of arecanut development. Magnesium and zinc are important but function mainly as secondary or micronutrients, not as primary growth drivers. Boron is necessary for reproductive growth and nut set but not for early vegetative stages.
Yellowing of older arecanut leaves that starts from the leaf tip and edges is most commonly caused by a deficiency of which nutrient?
Explanation: Potassium deficiency in arecanut is characterized by yellowing (chlorosis) of leaf margins, especially in older leaves. Calcium deficiency usually affects new growth, iron deficiency causes interveinal chlorosis in young leaves, and sulfur deficiency typically results in uniform pale yellowing.
Which micronutrient is essential for proper nut set and increasing kernel quality in arecanut plantations?
Explanation: Boron is vital for flower and nut development, playing a significant role in nut setting and kernel formation. Copper and manganese are important for enzyme functions but do not significantly impact nut set. Molybdenum is important for nitrogen metabolism but not directly related to kernel quality.
In arecanut cultivation, the recommended time to apply the majority of annual fertilizers is during which local season to maximize uptake and minimize losses?
Explanation: Fertilizers are best applied at the onset of the monsoon to use rainfall for nutrient dissolution and absorption. Applying in peak winter or dry season can reduce effectiveness due to limited moisture. Fertilization during harvest is not optimal as nutrient demand peaks earlier.
Which commonly used organic manure provides a balanced supply of macro and micronutrients while improving soil structure for arecanut palms?
Explanation: Composted farmyard manure enriches the soil with both macro and micronutrients and enhances soil texture and microbial activity. Urea supplies primarily nitrogen, bone meal contributes mostly phosphorus, and superphosphate is a source of phosphorus with no substantial organic matter.