Indian Journal of Agronomy

A field experiment was conducted during 2009–10 to 2012–13 to study the effect of fertigation on the productivity of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) at the Horticultural Research Station, Kahikuchi, Asom. Application of 25, 50, 75 and 100% of recommended NPK through drip irrigation system was compared with the soil application of recommended NPK as well as control with no fertilizer application. Fertilizers were given through drip-irrigation system during October to April in 10 equal splits at 20-day intervals. Application of 75% NPK through drip irrigation resulted in significantly higher number of functional leaves, bunches/palm, number of female flowers and nut setting percentage compared to the control and the other fertigation treatments, except 100% NPK through drip irrigation. The mean nut and copra yield/palm over 4 years was significantly higher with the application of 75% NPK through drip irrigation than the control and the other fertigation treatments, but on a par with 100% NPK through drip irrigation. The net returns in 75% NPK through drip irrigation were also at par with the application of 100% NPK through drip irrigation, but application of 75% NPK through drip irrigation resulted in significantly highest benefit: cost ratio compared to all the other treatments. The study indicated the possibility of saving 25% of the recommended fertilizers by adopting fertigation which ensures higher productivity in coconut.