C E Y L O N C O C O N U T Q U A R T E R L Y 

Volume XIV January June, 1963 Nos. 1/2 

CONTENTS 
P A G E 

1. A N N U A L R E P O R T O F T H E C O C O N U T R E S E A R C H I N S T I T U T E F O R 1962 2 

2 . R E P O R T O F T H E D I R E C T O R 4 

3 . R E P O R T O F T H E S O I L C H E M I S T 8 

4 . R E P O R T O F T H E C H E M I S T 21 

5 . R E P O R T O F T H E B O T A N I S T 2 6 

6 . R E P O R T O F T H E A C T I N G A G R O S T O L O G I S T 3 1 

7. R E P O R T O F T H E O F F I C E R - 1 N - C H A R G E , C R O P P R O T E C T I O N 4 6 

8. R E P O R T O F T H E B I O M E T R I C I A N 4 8 

9. R E P O R T O F T H E S O I L S U R V E Y U N I T 5 2 

10. R E P O R T O F T H E P L A N T I N G O F F I C E R 5 7 

11 . R E P O R T O F T H E C H I E F A D V I S O R Y O F F I C E R 5 9 

12. R E P O R T O F T H E W E L F A R E O F F I C E R 6 3 

13. R E P O R T S O N T H E E S T A T E S 

I . B A N D I R I P P U W A E S T A T E . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 6 

I I . R A T M A L A G A R A E S T A T E . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 9 

Annual Subscription: Rs. 4-50 Price: Rs. 2-50 

Date of Publications—24th March, 1964. 

PRINTED BY THE COLOMBO APOTHECARIES' CO., LTD, COLOMBO 



ANNUAL REPORT OF THE COCONUT 
RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOR 1962 

The present report is the 34th Annual Report of the Coconut Research Institute, which was 
established by Ordinance No. 29 of 1928 dated December 1928. 

REPORT OF THE CHAIRMAN 

On January 1st 1962, the Coconut Research Board consisted of the following:— 

Ex-oflicio Members: 

The Director of Agriculture: Mr. A.V. Richards, M.Sc. (Calif.), B.Sc. (Lond.), Dip. Agric. (Cantab.), 
A.I.C.T.A. (Trinidad). 
Finance Minister's Representative: Mr. G.M. Sparkes, CCS. 
Commissioner of Coconut Rehabilitation: Mr. B. Mahadeva, CCS. 
Chairman, Low Country Products' Association: Mr. Francis Amarasuriya. 
Director, Coconut Research Institute: Dr. M.L.M. Salgado, Ph.D. (Cantab.). 

Nominated Members: (for a period of 3 years) 

Nominated by the Honourable Minister from Senators and Members of Parliament: 
Mr. W.I. Hugh Fernando, M.P. 
Mr. S.D.R. Jayaratne, M.P. 

Nominated by the Planters' Association of Ceylon: 
Mr. C.T. Van Geyzel, J.P. 
Mr. B. Warusavitharna. 

Nominated by the Low Country Products' Association: 
Senator T. Amarasuriya, O.B.E., (Chairman, Coconut Research Board) 
Mr.CA.M.deSilva. 

Nominated by the Honourable Minister to represent the Small-Holders: 
Mr. M.M. Kumarakulasingham 
Mr. L.W.A. Fernando. 

Mr. A.F. Samarasinghe replaced Mr. M.M. Kumarakulasingham as the Small-Holders representative 
on the Board in January, 1962. 

Mr. Wijebahu Wijesinghe, M.P., replaced Mr. S.D.R. Jayaratne, M.P., in April, 1962. 
Mr. C.A.M. de Silva was renominated to represent the Low Country Products' Association for 

a further period of three years. 

Meetings.—Four meetings of the Coconut Research Board were held on 10th March, 9th June, 
8th September and 8th December respectively. 

2 



Committees 

Administration Committee (Personnel at 1st January, 1962): 
(1) SenatorT. Amarasuriya, O.B.E., (Chairman). 
(2) Mr.A.V.Richards. 
(3) Mr. B. Warusavithana. 
(4) Mr.CA.M.deSilva. 
(5) Mr.B.Mahadeva. 
(6) Mr. W.I. Hugh Fernando, M.P. 
(7) Mr. G.M. Sparkes. 
(8) Dr. M.L.M. Salgado, Director, Coconut Research Institute. 

The 37th, 38th, 39th and 40th meetings of the Administrative Committee were held on 26th January, 
27th April, 27th July and 26th October respectively. A special meeting of the Administrative Committee 
was held on 6th May. 

Estates and Experimental Committee (Personnel at 1st January, 1962): 
(1) Mr. M.M. Kumarakulasingham, (Chairman). 
(2) Mr. F. Amarasuriya. 
(3) Senator T. Amarasuriya, O.B.E. 
(4) Mr. B. Warusavithana. 
(5) Mr. S.D.R. Jayaratne, M.P. 
(6) Mr. C.T. Van Geyzel, J.P. 
(7) Mr.A.V.Richards. 
(8) Dr. M.L.M. Salgado, Director, Coconut Research Institute. 

Three Co-opted Members 
(1) Mr.E.Muttukumaru. 
(2) Mr.R.H.deMel. 
(3) Mr.X.Jobin. 

The 39th, 40th, 41st and 42nd meetings of the Estates and Experimental Committee were held 
on 24th February, 26th May, 18th August and 20th October respectively. 

Extension Committee (Personnel at 1st January, 1962): 
(1) Mr. C.T. Van Geyzel,/..?., (Chairman). 
(2) Mr. F. Amarasuriya. 
(3) Mr.C.A.M.deSilva. 
(4) Mr.B.Mahadeva. 
(5) Mr. M.M. Kumarakulasingham. 
(6) Mr.L.W.A.Fernando. 
(7) Dr. M.L.M. Salgado, Director, Coconut Research Institute. 

The 32nd, 33rd and 34th meetings of the Extension Committee were held on 10th February, 11th 
August and 17th November respectively. 

Editorial Committee (Personnel at 1st January, 1962): 
(1) Mr. M.M. Kumarakulasingham, (Chairman). 
(2) Mr. F. Amarasuriya. 
(3) Mr. S.D.R. Jayaratne, M.P. 
(4) Dr. M.L.M. Salgado, Director, C.R.I. 
(5) Dr.D.V.Liyanage. 

The meetings were held on 11 th August and 22nd October. 

T. AMARASURIYA, 
Chairman, Coconut Research Institute. 

3 



REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR 

1. STAFF 

The Staff of the Coconut Research Institute at the end of 1962 was as follows: 

Administration Division 
Director—Dr. M.L.M. Salgado, Ph.D. (Cantab.), B.Sc. (Lond.), Dip. Agric. (Cantab.). 
Chief Administrative Officers and Secretary to the Board—Mr. S.C. Kahawita, B.Com. (Lond.). 
Assistant Secretary—Mr. T.T.A.J.C. Samarasinghe, LL.B. (Ceylon). 

Soil Chemistry Division 
Soil Chemist Dr. D.A. Nethsinghe, D.Phil. (Oxon.), B.Sc. (Ceylon), A.R.I.C. 
Research Assistant—Mr. T.S. Balakrishnamurthi, B.Sc. (Ceylon). 

Chemistry Division 
Chemist—Dr. W.R.N. Nathanael, Ph.D. (Lond.), M.Sc. (Lond.), B.Sc. (Lond.), A.R.I.C. 
Research Assistant—Vacant. 

Botany Division 
Botanist—Dr. D.V. Liyanage, Ph.D. (Manch.), B.Sc. (Lond.). 
Research Assistant—Vacant. 

Agrostology Division 
Agrostologist—Mr. K. Santhirasegeram, B.Sc. (Ceylon). (On overseas study leave). 
Research Assistant—Mrs. N. Rajaratnam, B.Sc. (Ceylon). 

Planting Division 
Planting Officer—Mr. P.D.L. Fernando. 
Assistant Planting Officer—Mr. C. W.S. de Silva. 

Advisory Division 
Chief Advisory Officer—Mr. C.A. Wickramasuriya, B.Sc. (Ceylon). 

Crop Protection Division 
Crop Protection Officer—Vacant. 
Officer-in-Charge—Mr. J.K.F. Kirthisinghe. 

4 



Biometry 

Biometrician—Mr. V. Abey wardena. 
Research Assistant—(Statistics)—Mr. J.K.T. Fernando, B.Sc. (Ceylon). 

The vacant post of Research Assistants to the Chemist and Botanist were advertised but could 
not be filled as suitable qualified candidates were not available. 

2. MEETINGS 
The Director attended the following meetings besides those of the Coconut Research Board and 

its Committees:— 
(i) Annual General Meeting of the Planters' Association of Ceylon. 

(ii) Meetings of the District Planters' Associations of Chilaw/Negombo and Kurunegala and 
one meeting of the Southern Province Association. 

(iii) Conference with Mr. K.V.R. Sastry, F.A.O. Statistician regarding the Pilot Survey of Coconuts. 
(iv) Annual Conference of Advisory Officers of the Institute. 
(v) Meetings of the Central Board of Agriculture. 

(vi) Meetings of the Animal Husbandry Sub-Committee of the Central Board of Agriculture. 

3. RESEARCH CONFERENCES 
The following subjects were discussed at Research Conferences held during the year:— 

(i) Dr. D.A. Nethsinghe, Soil Chemist, led a discussion on "Magnesium deficiency of coconuts". 
(ii) Dr. W.R.N. Nathanael, Chemist, led a discussion on "Some problems facing the desiccated 

coconut industry of Ceylon". 
(iii) Mr. V. Abeywardena, Biometrician, led a discussion on "Some problems in the interpretation 

of experimental data of young palms". 

4. VISITORS 
The Visitors during the year included the following:— 
Dr. H.W.R. Scarpenseel of University of Bonn, Germany. 
Mr. W.V.D. Pieris, FAO Coconut Improvement Officer. 
Dr. Sivarajasingham, Assistant Chemist, Department of Agriculture, Peradeniya. 
Dr. V.P. Rao, Entomologist, Commonwealth Institute of Biological Control, Bangalore. 
Dr. Hall and Dr. Gibson of USOM. 
Government Agent, Kurunegala. 
Miss Lynden Moore of the University of Oxford. 
Mr. P.C. Bansil of the Planning Secretariat, Colombo. 
Prof. Walter Kubiena and Dr. Lorenz Schmidt of the University of Hamburg. 
G. von Gontard, Potascheme, India. 
Dr. Hamilton, Director, DSIRO, New Zealand. 
Mr. K.V.R. Sastry, FAO Statistician. 

5 . TRAINEES 
Mr. M.A. Hussain from East Pakistan was trained in copra curing and coconut cultivation at the 

Institute. 

6. FIELD DAY 
A Field Day for members of the Chilaw/Negombo Planters' Association was held at the Isolated 

Seed Garden. 
5 



7. PUBLICATIONS 

The Director contributed the articles on "Coconuts in 1961" and "Activities of the Coconut Research 
Institute in 1961" to the Annual Report of the Planters' Association of Ceylon. 

An article entitled "A Factorial Fertiliser Experiment on Coconuts" by T. Eden, J.C. Gower 
and M.L.M. Salgado was accepted for publication in the Empire Journal of Experimental Agriculture. 
(This has appeared in Vol. XXXI, No. 124). 

8. NOTES ON REPORTS OF DIVISIONS 

The following notes draw attention to points of interest relating to the detailed reports of the Technical 
and Extension work of the Institute. 

Chemistry 

In connection with the new sterilisation process to obviate Salmonella in DC, a study was made 
of the losses of dietary factors in the water and sterilisation waters. This has revealed that the losses 
in fat, protein, carbohydrates and minerals would be of the order of 6.9 lakhs of rupees per annum. 

On the basis of the investigations carried out in the Chemistry Division, a new Vinegar Factory 
at Nainamadama employing the "Generator Process" went into successful production. 

It was also found that a concentration of 2% common salt dissolved in the Vinegar completely 
averted the growth of mycodermal film in bottled vinegar. 

Botany 

The programme of work on breeding and selection of coconut palms was continued during the 
year. Now there is sufficient data available on an experimental basis to indicate that the hybrid palms 
typica x pumila are early bearing and high yielding. 

A new Field Trial has been laid down at Pottukulama to test the following: (i) Typica X pumila; 
(ii) typica X typica and (iii) typica open pollinated. 

13,679 artificially pollinated nuts of typica X typica where the male parent is a prepotent palm 
were harvested. 

The Isolated Seed Garden has been making satisfactory progress and the yield per acre during 
the year was 4,174 nuts. 

The three progeny trials at Marandawila, Walpita and Bandirippuwa were maintained during the 
year. 

Soil Chemistry 

In addition to Potash, Phosphate has also brought about a significant increase in copra yield in 
the NPK Experiment at Bandirippuwa. At Ratmalagara all three elements—N, P and K continued 
to show a significant response in yields in the experiment on young palms. These results confirm and 
strengthen the basis of our present fertiliser recommendations. 

Incidence of mangesium deficiency has been observed in all major coconut growing areas—particu­
larly in the latertic soils of the Southern, Western and North Western Provinces and Cinnamon soils 
of theChilaw/Negombo area. 



Agrostology 

M.L.M. SALGADO, 
Director, Coconut Research Institute. 

Assessment of soil nutrient status by the Pot Culture technique has been continued, as also the 
experiments on the growth of pastures under coconuts. 

Crop Protection 

As during the previous years there were two notable pest problems that demanded special attention. 
One was the Coconut Scale pest out-breaks and the other the premature decline of palms following 
"leaf scorch". 

Red Weevil yet remained the most elusive and destructive pest on young plantations. 

The project for the biological control of the Coconut Caterpillar, particularly in the Eastern Provin ce 
worked effectively under the supervision of the Colombo Plan Entomologist. 

Biometrics 

Apart from the usual routine statistical work for the Research Divisions, work initiated included 
a series of biomedical strudies pertinent to Coconut research. 

These included problems such as the best quantitative expression of certain characters used in the 
analysis of research problems, the genetic and environmental components of the between palm variation 
in coconut yields, and studies on the biennial bearing tendency in coconut. 

Soil Survey 

Soil Surveys of the Melsiripura-Beligama area on the Nalanda one inch sheet and of Vanatavillu, 
North of Puttalam, comprising the Middle Class Colonisation Scheme were carried out. 

General 

Coconut Production reached a record in 1962, the estimated production being 2,993 million nuts 
for the Island. There is little doubt that these yields have resulted largely from the benefits of the Govern­
ment Subsidised Manure Scheme which has been in operation since 1956. 

That such yields have been realised confirm the soundness of the manurial and cultural recommen­
dations made by the Coconut Research Institute based on sound experimental and scientific data. 

Today, with the higher rates of application of manures there are estates which provide 5,000 nuts 
per acre per annum—yields unheard of a decade ago. 

Unfortunately the financial situation of the Institute has not permitted expansion of its activities 
and it yet remains the Cinderella of the three Crop Research Institutes. 

Fortunately the Government Grant for Advisory work was increased from one lakh to Rs. 300,000. 



REPORT OF THE SOIL CHEMIST 

SUMMARY 
The seven major long term field experiments on manuring which were in progress during 1961 

were continued in 1962. In addition to potash, phosphate has also brought about a significant increase 
in copra yields in the 3 3 N.P.K. experiment at Bandirippuwa. At Ratmalagara, all three major elements— 
N, P and K continued to show a significant response in yields in the experiment on young palms. These 
results confirm and strengthen the basis of our present fertilizer recommendations. 

During this year, our attention has been largely focussed on the problem of yellowing due to 
magnesium deficiency. The observation trials at Mattegoda and Walgama Estates in the Western Province 
have continued to show that yellow palms improve both in leaf colour and yields when treated with 
magnesium fertilisers. Incidence of magnesium deficiency has now been observed in all major coconut 
growing districts—particularly in the lateritic soils of the Southern, Western and North-Western Provinces 
and cinnamon sands of the Chilaw/Negombo area. Diagnosis by observation of the visual symptoms 
has been confirmed by leaf and soil analytical techniques developed in our laboratories. 

The first field trial on coconuts using radioactive phosphorus to compare the relative efficiency 
of different methods of fertiliser placement was carried out on twelve year old bearing palms on a sandy 
loam soil. It was found that placemsnt in a circular basin extending to 5 feet from the bole of the palm 
was superior to placement in the traditional circular trench or centres of squares. 

Investigations on the "leaf scorch" problem in the Southern Province were extended- to soil appli­
cations of trace elements and leaf analysis. No conclusive results have been obtained yet. 

DETAILED REPORT 
A. FIELD EXPERIMENTS 

1. 3 x 3 x 3 N.P.K. Factorial Experiment (Bandirippuwa Estate) 
(See C.R.I. Annual Report of 1949 and 1931 for details of treatment and design). 

This experiment completed its 27th year in 1962. The main effects for 1962 areshowin in Table I (a). 
In keeping with trends in the last few years, the increased weight of copra obtained from phosphate 
manuring has now reached statistical significance in its linear component. The potash response continued 
to be highly significant. 

8 



TABLE I (a) 

Yield data for 1962—33 N.P.K. Experiment, Bandirippuwa 
(66 palms/acre) 

Lbs. Nuts Calculated as % Difference Copra 
Treatment Copra per out-turn rence 

per acre acre Copra Nuts lbs. Copra Nutsl nutsl in nutsl 
per acre Acre per candy per candy 

N 0 (0.01bs.N) 1,890 3,787 100 100 1,122 
^ ( 0 . 5 lbs. N) 1,940 3,971 103 105 + 50 -! 184 1,146 + 24 
N 2 ( l l b . N ) 1,906 3,979 101 105 + 16 + 192 1,174 + 52 

P 0(01bs.P 2O 6) 1,808 3,645 100 100 1,129 
Pi ( l ib . P A ) 1,949 3,982 108 109 + 141 + 337 1,144 + 15 
P 2 (21bs.P 2 0 5 ) 1,980 4,111 n o 113 + 172 +466 1,163 + 34 

^ ( 0 . 7 5 lbs .K 2 0) 1,653 3,579 100 100 , 1,212 _ 
KjO.Slbs.KjO) 1,962 3,946 119 110 + 309*** 377 1,126 - 86 
K 3 (2.25 lbs. K 2 0 ) 2,121 4,213 128 118 +468*** 634 1,112 -100 

Significant difference P. 05 = 171 lbs. copra/acre. 
***SignificantatP.001. 

The mean yields in 1962 for the various treatment combinations are given in Table 1 (0). 

TABLE I (b) 

N0 
K—Total 

1,748 1,677 1,535 1,653 
K 2 1,919 1,981 1,986 1,962 
K s 

2,004 2,161 2,198 2,121 

N—Total 1,890 1,940 1,906 1,912 

Po ^ 1 Pi K—Total 

Kg 
K 8 

1,519 
1,972 
1,934 

1,689 
1,946 
2,210 

1,752 
1,968 
2,218 

1,653 
1,962 
2,121 

P—Total 1,808 1,949 1,980 1,912 

^0 Pi Pt N—Total' 

NO 
N, 
N 2 

1,772 
1,896 
1,756 

1,935 
1,923 
1,989 

1,752 
2,000 
1,974 

1,890 
1,940 
1,906 

P—Total 1,808 1,949 1,980 1,912 

9 



2. Manurial X Cultivation Experiment (Ratmalagara Estate) 
(See C.R.I. Annual Report 1959 for details of treatment and design). 

The 19th year of this experiment was concluded in June 1962. The yield data for the main effects 
in 1962 given in Table 2 showed a significant response to only phosphate, The phosphate response is 
higher than that recorded in any of the previous years. 

Ploughing has not shown any significance this year. This is probably due to the fact that during 
the preceding year there has been good distribution of rainfall—the effect of ploughing being perhaps 
largely a matter of improving the moisture holding capacity of the soil.. 

TABLE II 

Yield data for 1962—Manurial X Cultivation experiment, Ratmalagara 
(60 palms per acre) 

Calculated Difference Copra out- Difference 
Treatment Lbs. Copra/ as lbs. Copra/ turn nuts/ in nuts/ 

acre % acre candy candy 

P 0 1,233 100 — 1,046 — 
P 2,084 169 + 851*** 1,041 -5 
C 0 1,637 100 — 1,048 — 
C 1,679 103 + 42 1,039 -9 

Significant difference P. 05 = 140 lbs. copra/acre 
***SignificantatP.001 

K 0 1,549 100 — 1,070 — 
K! 1,667 108 +118 1,046 -24 
K 2 1,758 113 +209 1,017 -53 

3. 3 x 3 x 3 N.P.K. Experiment on Young Palms (Ratmalagara Estate) 
(See C.R.I. Annual Report for 1959 for details of treatment and design). 

The 14th year of this experiment was completed in 1962. The yield data for the main effects of 
N, P and K given in Table III (a) show that all three nutrients have had a highly significant effect in 
increasing copra yields. The annual application of a mixture of sulphate of ammonia, saphos phosphate 
and muriate of potash in equal proportions at 9 lbs. per palm has produced 87 nuts per palm in 1962, 
in contrast to 36 nuts per palm in the unmanured plots, and 64 nuts per palm on plots receiving 4£ lbs. 
fertiliser mixture. 

The N x P interaction was also highly significant. The yield data for different treatment combinations 
are given in Table III (b) and III (c). 

.10 



TABLE m («) 

h^s' Calculated Difference M , Calculated Difference Out~tu™ Difference 
r as % in lbs. as % in nuts y in nuts per acre ' / 0 candy 

No 1,622 100 — 2,726 100 — 941 — 
Nx 1,967 121 + 345*** 3,324 122 + 598 946 + 5 
N 2 1,927 119 + 305*** 3,383 124 + 657 983 + 42 

Po 1,183 100 1,977 100 937 — 
Pi 2,167 183 + 984*** 3,667 185 + 1,690 948 + 11 
P 2 

2,166 183 + 983*** 3,787 192 + 1,810 979 + 42 

Kc 1,663 100 — 2,978 100 1,003 — 
K, 1,791 108 + 128 3,057 103 + 79 956 + 47 
K £ 2,062 124 + 399*** 3,398 114 + 420 923 + 80 

Significant difference P. 05 = 157 lbs. copra per acre. 
•••Significant at P. 001. 

TABLE m (6) 

lbs. Copra per acre 

AT2 
P—Total 

Po 1,231 1,292 1,025 1,183 
Pi 1,834 2,368 2,297 2,167 
p 2 1,800 2,240 2,457 2,166 

N—Total 1,622 1,967 1,927 1,839 

JVi N2 K—Total 

1,533 1,811 1,643 1,663 
Kx 1,535 1,893 1,944 1,791 
K 2 

1,797 2,196 2,193 2,062 

N—Total 1,622 . . 1,967 • 1,927 1,839 

^ 0 Pi Pz K—Total 

1,093 1,911 1,982 1,663 
K, 1,088 2,072 2,212 1,791 
K 2 1,366 2,516 2,303 2,062 

P—Total 1,183 2,167 2,166 1,839 

11 

Yield data for 1962—3s N.P.K. Experiment on Young Palms Ratmalagara Estate 



TABLE HI (c) 
lbs. Copra per acre 

NoKi NoKt P—Total 

Po 1,254 1,206 1,233 1,231 
Pa 1,452 1,768 2,283 1,834 
P* 1,893 1,632 1,876 1,800 

NK—Total . . 1,533 1,535 1,797 1,622 

NtKt P—Total 

Po 1,079 1,167 1,629 1,292 
Pi 2,263 2,133 2,708 2,368 
P 2 

2,092 2,379 2,251 2,240 

NK—Total . . 1,811 1,893 2,196 1,967 

N2Ko ATA JVA P—Total 

Po 947 891 1,238 1,025 
2,020 2,315 2,558 2,297 

P 2 
1,962 2,627 2,782 2,457 

NK—Total . . 1,643 1,944 2,193 1,927 

4. Manurial Experiment on Organics vs. Inorganics and frequency of manuring 
(Co-operative experiment at Marandawila Group, Bingiriya). 
(See C.R.I., Annual Report 1959 for details of treatment and design). 
This experiment completed its 4th year in June 1962. The yield data for the 4th year (adjusted by 

co-variance analysis) is given in Table IV. All treatments have been found to be significantly better 
than the control (no manure). The following differences were also statistically significant at the 5% 
level:— 

Cattle manure with supplements — inorganic annually. 
Organics once in two years — inorganics once in two years. 
Cattle manure with supplements — inorganics once in two years. 

TABLE TV 

Yield data for 1962, Experiment on Organics vs. Inorganics Marandawila Estate 

(Adjusted by co-variance analysis) 

Treatment 
Lbs. Copral 

acre 
% 

Control 
Inorganics annually 
Inorganics in 2 years 
Organics annually 
Organics in 2 years 
Cattle manure with supplements 

Difference n 

in,bs.copra/ £ g £ Difference 
acre J 

2,402 100 1,109 
2,712 113 + 310 1,074 -35 
2,680 112 + 278 1,016 -93 
2,800 117 + 398 1,015 -94 
2,800 120 + 478 1,056 -53 
2,980 124 + 578 1,022 -87 

12 



5. 4 x 4 x 4 N.P.K. Experiment on adult palms (Bandirippuwa Estate) 
(See C.R.I. Annual Report 1960 for details of treatment and design). 

The 3rd annual manuring was done in October 1962. Records of nuts and weights of husked nuts from 
individual palms were maintained for each pick during the year. It is still premature to draw any con­
clusions. 

6 . Methods of placement and liming experiment on adult palms. (Co-operative experiment at Walahapitiya 
Estate, Nattandiya). 
(See C.R.I. Annual Report 1961 for details of treatment and design). 

The 2nd annual manuring was done in October 1962. The plots receiving lime were given two 
applications of 10 cwts. lime per acre each during the course of the year. These plots have now received 
a total of 30 cwts. lime per acre, and the pH raised from 4.2 to 5. The yields of nuts from individual 
plot palms and weights of husked nuts for plots were maintained for each pick during the year. It is 
yet premature to draw any conclusions on the effects of the different treatments. 

7. 4 x 4 x 4 N.P.K. Experiment on Young Palms (Pothukulama Estate) 
(See C.R.I. Annual Report for 1961 for details of treatment and design). 

The 2nd annual manuring of this experiment was done in December 1962. Counts of total number 
of new leaves in palms were done at six monthly intervals. During the course of the year about 60 palms 
were found to be attacked by the fungus disease Helminthosporium. However, unlike in the case of 
the experiment on young palms at Ratmalagara, the fungal infestation was not observed to be associated 
with any particular manurial treatments. 

8. Observation trials on yellowing palms, Walgama Estate, Rukmale, and Mattegoda Estate, Polgasowita 
(See also C.R.I. Annual Reports for 1960 and 1961). 

(1) Walgama Estate 

The trials on this estate where yellow palms are being treated in groups of ten with N.P.K. fertilizers 
only and also N.P.K. with 1, 2 and 3 lbs. magnesium sulphate per palm annually showed the same 
pattern as in the previous year. Nearly all the palms treated with magnesium sulphate since 1957 are 
now green and they have given a distinctly higher yield of nuts than those treated with N.P.K. fertilizers 
only. Table VIII (a) gives the yield data per acre per annum for the two-year periods 1958-60, and 1960-62, 
adjusted by co-variance analysis for initial yield differences during the two-year period 1956-58. (The 
first differential manuring was done in 1957, so that yields in this period are assumed to represent pre-
treatment data). The data in Table VUI (a) is based on the total yields of 5 palms under each treatment, 
these being so chosen that they fell within a total yield band of25-40 nuts during the two-year pre-treatment 
period 1956-58. It is seen that the annual application of 3 lbs. magnesium sulphate per palm in addition 
to the N.P.K. mixture has given the best results. 

TABLE V m (a) 

Yield data adjusted by co-variance analysis—Magnesium trials, Walgama Estate 

Nuts per acre per annum 
Treatment 1958-1960 1960-1961 

7. 7. 

Control 1,166 100 1,238 100 
5 lbs. N.P.K. only 1,373 118 1,594 129 
5 lbs. N.P.K. + 1 lb. Magnesium Sulphate 1,730 148 1,514 122 
5 lbs. N.P.K. + 2 lbs. Magnesium Sulphate 1,625 139 1,996 161 
5 lbs. N.P.K, + 3 lbs. Magnesium Sulphate 1,887 162 2,375 192 

13 



(2) Mattegoda Estate 

On this estate adult yellow palms in groups of forty have been treated annually with N.P.K. mixture 
only and also N.P.K. with 1 lb. magnesium sulphate or an equivalent quantity (408 gms.) of dolomite 
per palm since 1957. The biennial application of cattle manure supplemented with muriate of potash 
and saphos phosphate is also being tested. A census of palms taken in December 1962 showed that 
about 60% of the palms receiving magnesium had been completely restored to a healthy green colour. 
The palms treated with dolomite are still a little behind. The census data given in Table VTII (b) also 
show an improvement in the colour of palms receiving no fertilizers at all, in comparison to those receiving 
N.P.K. only. A similar pattern was observed in the trials on young yellow palms on the same estate. 
This is in accordance with the established fact that magnesium deficiency is aggravated by the presence 
of ammonium and potassium salts. 

Table VHI (b) also gives the annual yields per acre for the different treatments during the two-year 
periods 1958-60 and 1960-62, adjusted by co-variance analysis. Cattle manuring is seen to have as marked 
an effect as magnesium sulphate on the yield data. This confirms the observation of planters that yellowing 
palms have recovered after cattle manuring. 

TABLE VIII (6) 

Yield data adjusted by co-variance analysis and condition of adult yellow palms 
in magnesium trials, Mattegoda Estate 

No. of No. of No. of Nuts per acre per annum 
Treatment green moderate- intense- (64 palms/acre) 

palms lyyellow ly yellow 1958-60 1960-62 
palms palms % % 

Control 14 20 6 2,358 100 2,311 100 
N.P.K.only 2 16 22 2,483 105 2,648 114 
N.P.K. + 454 gms. Magnesium Sulphate 25 13 2 2,879 122 3,233 140 
N.P.K. + 408 gms. dolomite 8 30 2 2,706 115 3,183 138 
Cattle manure + supplements 16 22 2 2,645 112 3,408 147 

9. Leaf Scorch problem, Gonapinuwala area. 
(See also C.R.I. Annual Report 1961). 

The fortnightly foliar spraying of diseased palms in groups of ten with 0 .3% solutions of each 
of the elements zinc (as zinc sulphate), boron (as boric acid) and molybdenum (as sodium molybdate) 
were commenced again in February 1962. The technique of foliar spraying was adopted in the hope 
that it would help in quick diagnosis of possible trace-element deficiency. But since no such quick response 
was apparent, the sprayings were abandoned in April, and some simple trials on soil applications of 
zinc, boron and molybdenum commenced. 

At a census taken in August 1962, it was observed that the condition of palms receiving zinc and 
molybdenum had deteriorated considerably, while the group of palms treated with boron had shown 
slight improvement of foliar conditions. The zinc and molybdenum treatments were therefore stopped 
and further applications of boron were done. The results obtained so far are not conclusive and more 
trials on soil applications of trace elements are to be carried out. 

During the course of the year, leaflet samples were taken from diseased and healthy palms for 
chemical analysis. 

14 



B. LABORATORY INVESTIGATIONS 

I . Diagnosis of magnesium deficiency by leaf and soil analytical methods 
Previously it was shown that magnesium deficiency in coconuts can be diagnosed by the chemical 

analysis of leaflets provided that a proper sampling technique is adopted (C.R.1. Annual Report 1961). 
The 6th fully opened frond proved to be a convenient leaf for sampling leaflets from palms in which 
deficiency symptoms had already set in. 

During fHe course" of the year under review, we received numerous reports of yellowing palms 
from various coconut growing dreds" in Ceylon—Southern and Western provinces, Kurunegala, Matale, 
and Chilaw/Negombo districts including some blocks in Bandirippuwa Estate as well. According to 
the usual symptoms, the yellowing was apparently due to magnesium deficiency. We considered it 
necessary to confirm this by the leaf analysis method already described. Leaflets (6th frond) were sampled 
from individual healthy and yellow palms in the different localities. The mean chemical composition 
for N, P, K, Ca and Mg are given in Table I B . It is seen that the samples from yellow palms have a 
distinctly lower content of magnesium. 

Preliminary studies indicated that the exchangeable magnesium in soil was not a suitable criterion 
fdr assessing magnesium availability. The magnesium content of leaflets was independent of exchangeable 
soil magnesium. The magnesium concentration in IO-2 molar calcium chloride extracts of soil seemed 
to give a better irididatidrt of magnesium availability (IO-2 molar CaCIg has been suggested for determining 
nutrient availability in soils- by Schdfied (1955) on the basis of his chemical potential concept—Soils 
and Ferts: 18 p. 373). Since the deficiency symptoms reported above occurred under diverse soil and 
climatic conditions we took the opportunity of making a more extensive study of this point. Simulta­
neously with the leaf sampling, soil samples (0-9*) were also taken from the corresponding healthy and 
affected areas. The soils were analysed for exchangeable magnesium and concentrations of magnesium 
in 10-2 molar CaCI2 extracts (10 gms. soil in 50 cc. solution shaken for £ hour). The results are given 
in Table I B . Leaf magnesium showed no correlation with exchangeable soil magnesium. This is clearly 
illustrated in the scatter diagram Fig. I. On the other hand, leaf magnesium was found to be positively 
correlated with concentrations of magnesium, (correlation coefficient 0.48) and better, with the molar 
ratio Mg/Ca in 10-2 molar calcium chloride extracts of the soils (correlation coefficient 0.56). Both 
correlations were significant at P. 05. The linear regression of leaf magnesium on molar Mg concentrations 
and molar Mg/Ca ratios in the soil extracts is seen in Figs. II and 111. 

It is apparent that exchangeable magnesium in soils is of no value in predicting magnesium avai­
lability. The calcium choloride method gives a more reliable estimate of soil magnesium availability. 
This method has also the advantage of being simple and quick, both calcium and magnesium being 
determined volumetrically by the E.D.T.A. method. The correlation between leaf magnesium and 
molar Mg concentrations and molar Mg/Ca ratios in the soil extracts though significant was not high. 
The predictve value of the calcium chloride method must presently be considered to be of a qualitative, 
rather than a quantitative nature. 

A magnesium content of 0.25-0.30% in leaflets from the 6th frond would indicate sufficiency of 
magnesium, while if the Mg content fell below 0.2% deficiency symptoms can be expected. In 10-2 

molar calcium chloride extracts of soil, magnesium deficiency is likely to occur if the molar M /Ca 
ratio is below 20 X 10-3. 

2. Radio Isotopes (P 3 2 ) project—Fertilizer placement trials 
(See C.R.I. Annual Report for 1960,1961). 
Preliminary work on this project showed that when radiocative phosphorus is applied to the soil, 

leaflets sampled from moderately mature fronds are the most suitable plant organs for studying the 
Uptake of radioactive phosphorus by the coconut palm. Within three days of the application of 5 milli-
ouries P» to the soil there was sufficient radioactivity in the leaflets for quantitative assay .The distribution 

p82) 
Of radioactivity (as measured by the specific activitypTi) in leaflets taken from fronds between the 
3rd and 9th fully opened leaves was comparatively uniform. 

1740—2 

15 



TABLE I B 

Mean Leaf Analysis and Soil Magnesium for Different Localities 

% LEAF COMPOSITION (O VEN DR Y BASIS) SOIL ANAL YSIS 

LOCALITY 
N P*O5 K%0 Ca Mg 

Molar Mg 
in 10-2 M. 
CaCli ex­
tracts of 

soil (X 105) 

Molar Mgl 
Ca ratio in 
CaCli ex­

tracts 
(A-IO3) 

Exchange­
able % me 
Mg. in 

soils 

Lunuwila 
Bandirippuwa Botanist Block GREEN 2.33 0.404 2.150 0.171 0.144 7.1 7.0 0.126 Bandirippuwa Botanist Block 

YELLOW 2.38 0.413 2.300 0.201 0.065 4 .3 3.5 0.183 
Bandirippuwa Adult Palm Block GREEN 2.35 0.381 1.217 0.231 0.271 17.9 24.5 0.321 

Kahatawila 
Kahatawila Estate GREEN 2.37 0.334 1.171 0.201 0.247 11.8 11.1 0.188 

YELLOW 2.46 0.339 0.958 0.306 0.147 13.2 12.6 0.258 
Ja-ela 

Wisaka Estate YELLOW 2.38 0.461 1.617 0.357 0.105 2 .6 2 .4 0.095 
Dawatagahawatte Estate GREEN 2.17 0.412 1.728 0.133 0.211 6.0 5.8 0.101 Dawatagahawatte Estate 

YELLOW 2.33 0.393 1.812 0.114 0.112 4.8 4 .6 0.131 
Southern Province 

Kahatapitiya Estate GREEN 2.19 0.375 2.085 0.152 0.137 17.6 16.8 0.568 Kahatapitiya Estate 
YELLOW 2.29 0.409 2.085 0.270 0.086 8.6 5.9 0.156 

Fred's Ruhue Estate GREEN 2.12 0.374 1.864 0.109 0.145 13.1 12.8 0.277 
YELLOW 2.27 0.359 1.899 0.190 0.102 9.7 9 .4 0.211 

Ma tale 
Warakanda Estate YELLOW 0.393 1.506 0.433 0.139 5.4 5.7 0.118 

Western Province 
Walgama Estate GREEN 2.37 0.327 1.540 0.404 0.195 25.4 19.6 0.254 Walgama Estate 

YELLOW 2.41 0.358 1.740 0.409 0.062 6 .0 5.1 0.227 
Mattegoda Estate GREEN 2.34 0.288 1.500 0.292 0.135 12.0 12.0 0.195 

Kurunegala 
Handurukanda Estate GREEN — — 1.546 0.134 0.293 64.7 77.0 1.380 

YELLOW — — 1.908 0.198 0.129 20.2 22.9 0.269 



Experimental Procedure: 

The first field trial on placement studies using P 3 2 was carried out on twelve year old bearing palms 
grown on a sandy loam soil in the Botanist's underplantation block at Bandirippuwa Estate. The efficiency 
of different methods of placement was judged by placing an equal amount of radioactive phosphorus 
in the soil according to the various methods and estimating the amount of radioactivity taken up by the 
palm. The following methods of placement were compared:—(a) traditional 3 ft. wide circular trench, 
:3 ft. away from the base of the palm (ft) 9.2 ft. square at centres of squares between rows of palms, 
and (c) basin round palm extending to a distance of 5.2 ft. from the bole. The areas (84.5 sq. ft.) and 
depths (4") of application of the radioactive phosphorus were similar for all three methods of placement. 
This ensured the elimination of any possible complications which may arise in the interpretation of 
results owing to isotopic exchange between the radioactive phosphorus and soil phosphorus. On account 
of the large amount of radioactive phosphorus required, (5 millicuries P 3 2 per palm) it was decided that 
this first experiment should be a simple one, and that the experimental units be limited to single palms. 
Each placement was therefore tested oh individual palms in three replicates. In order to minimise the 
errors due to individual palm variability and soil heterogeneity the following precautions were taken. 
Each replicate of the three different treatments we're grouped together so as to form a block—palms 
receiving the different treatments being as close together as possible within each block. The experimental 
palms were separated from each other by guard palms. Palms of similar bearing capacity and vegetative 
growth were selected for treatment comparisons within each block. 

Each experimental palm was treated with a solution of 66 grammes dibasic ammonium phosphate 
tagged with 5 millicuries P 3 2 in 10 litres water. This solution was uniformly sprinkled in the entire areas 
of placement. In the case of placement (b) at centres of squares, the full phosphate dosage was given to 
each of the four squares surrounding the experimental palm since the fertilizer applied to each squares 
In equally accessible to four palms. 

Leaflets were sampled from the 6th frond of each experimental palm at intervals of one week, one 
month and three months after the P 3 2 application. On account of the comparatively low amount of 
activity in the leaflets it was necessary to use a large quantity of leaf material for radioactive assay. 
20 gms. of the oven dry samples were dry ashed and extracted with dilute hydrochloric acid. P 3 2 was 
measured by the liquid counting technique and the P 3 1 by the colorimetric vanado-molybdate method. 
The phosphate had to be precipitated and redissolved before estimating the radioactivity due to P 3 2 

in order to eliminate interference caused by the presence of significant amounts of natural radioactivity 
in coconut leaflet samples, and also an unknown source of radioactivity which was detected in leaflet 
Samples only just before the placement experiment was commenced in June 1962. The natural radio­
activity in leaflets was traced to radioactive potassium K 4 0 . The ratio of active to non-active potassium 
present naturally in leaflets sampled from fronds of varying stages of maturity and different palms at 
Bandirippuwa estate was comparatively uniform, amounting to a mean of 97 counts per minute per 
gramme K 2 0 . The correponding figure for analar KC1 was 94. It is presumed that the unknown source 
Of radioactivity which showed a half life period of about 69 days, and which was observed in all leaflets 
Sampled during this period is due to radioactive fall out. The orders of magnitude of the interference 
due to radioactive potassium and the unknown source of activity is indicated in Table II B (a). The 
P 3 2 count in equivalent quantities (8 gms.) of oven dry leaflet samples from the experimentally treated 
palms ranged from 150 to 1,500 counts per minute. 

17 



TABLE H B (a) 
Blank radioactivity in coconut leaflets 

(Sampled on 17.6.62 from 12 year old palms in Botanist's Block—Bandirippuwa Estate) 
Counts per minute in 8 gms. oven dry samples 

Leaf No. 1 (\st fully opened) Leaf No. 8 
Date of Counting Palm No. Radioactivity Radioactivity Potash Unknown 

due to from unknown activity activity 
potash source 

2nd August 1962 102 22 21 16 60 2nd August 1962 
106 20 11 18 60 
113 23 3 20 46 

22nd August 1962 201 24 16 20 40 22nd August 1962 
218 20 11 16 40 
220 19 9 15 29 

23rd August 1962 279 19 5 14 56 23rd August 1962 
289 20 15 18 43 
295 22 • 19 14 58 

93.6cts./mt./gm.K 20 
69 days. 

Specific activity of potassium in A.R. KC1 
Half-life period of unknown source of activity 

RESULTS 
The results of the placement studies are given in Table II B (b). It is seen that placement in a basin 

extending to 5.2 ft. from the bole of the palm has been about twice as efficient as either of the other 
two methods. The pattern of uptake has been similar at 7 day, 30 day and 120 day intervals after 
P 3 2 application. The leaflet samples of replicates taken after 120 days were combined since owing to 
decay the activity was very low. The variability between replicates in placements (a) and (b) do not 
permit any definite conclusions to be drawn on the relative efficiency of uptake between these two methods 

The results show that the density of absorbing roots is much higher close to the palm than further 
away in the case of these twelve year old palms on a sandy loam soil which had been regularly manured 
on the traditional circular trench system. Before drawing any conclusions on the general applicability 
of these results, it is necessary to carry out further trials on palms of different ages grown under the 
various soil conditions. 

TABLE H B (b) 
Placement Trial 

Method of Placement Repli­
cate No. 

Specific activity of (7 > 3 2/P 3 1) of leaf phosphate in counts/ 
minute/mg. P?Oh at different time intervals after application 

7 days 
relative % 
efficiency 
of uptake 

30 days % Effici­
ency ]20 days % Effici-

ency 

Basin extending to 5.2 ft. from 
bole of palm 

1 
2 
3 

52 
58 
54 

173 
159 
133 1 

1 
! 

Mean 55 100 155 100 224 100 
Traditional manure circle 3 ft. 

wide and 3 ft. away from bole 
1 
2 
3 

39 
40 
24 

77 
31 
74 

— 

Mean 34 62 61 39 120 53 
Square of 9.2 ft. at centres of 

squares between rows of palms 
1 
2 
3 

12 
7 

22 

59 
12 
31 

Mean 14 25 34 22 107 48 
18 



3. Nut Water Analysis 

Estimations of potash and inorganic phosphate concentrations were done for each of the six picks 
in 1962 on samples of nut water from each plot of the old 3 3 N . P . K . and new 4 3 N . P . K . experiments at 
Bandirippuwa, and the 3 3 N . P . K . experiment on young palms at Ratmalagara. The results (mean values 
for the 6 picks) are given in Table 111 A along with the main effects for yield data for different treatments. 
It is interesting to note that although the nut-water potash concentrations in the Ratmalagara experi­
ments is considerably higher than that of the Bandirippuwa experiment, yet the yield response to potash 
at Ratmalagara has been quite significant. The nut-water potash of KQ plots at Ratmalagara is about 
25% higher than that of the K 3 plots at Bandirippuwa. Phosphate was highly deficient at Ratmalagara, 
whereas at Bandirippuwa, the phosphate yield response has just begun to show significance in the 3 3 

N .P .K . experiment. The P 0 plots at Bandirippuwa however, still show a high nut-water phosphate in 
comparison to the Pj or P 2 plots of Ratmalagara. If the nut water concentrations of potash and phosphate 
are to be considered a guide to fertilizer response, then it would be expected that at Ratmalagara still 
higher yield response could be obtained by raising the phosphate dosage, while at Bandirippuwa the K 3 

level of potash would still be considered insufficient. This is a matter which remains to be further clarified. 

TABLE HI B 

Nut-Water analysis—1962 

KiQ gins./litre Pi06gms.llilre 

. * i Kz *3 Po Pi Pz 

3^ N.P.K. Expt. B/E 1.16 1.70 2.01 0.24 0.26 0.26 
Yield lbs. copra per acre 1653 1692 2121 1808 1949 1980 

*o Ai *3 Po Pi Pt PS 

4 3 N.P.K. Expt. B/E 1.57 1.73 1.77 2.04 0.24 0.24 0.24 0.24 
Yield lbs. copra per acre 1916 1912 1926 1962 1979 2008 1878 1851 

*o * i Ai Po Pi P'. 

3 3 N.P.K. Expt. R/E 2.49 2.72 2.83 0.15 0.20 0.21 
Yield lbs. copra per acre 1663 1791 2062 1183 2167 2166 

4. Nitrogen losses from dolomite—sulphate of ammonia fertilizer mixtures 

At present we recommend that the application of dolomite to coconut palms be done separately 
at a later date after the usual N.P.K. mixture containing sulphate of ammonia has been applied. This 
is to minimise nitrogen losses which result when dolomite reacts with sulphate of ammonia. As this 
practice involves extra expenditure on labour, we considered it necessary to get some quantitative esti­
mate of nitrogen losses when dolomite is mixed with fertilizer mixtures containing sulphate of ammonia, 
both in the presence and absence of soil. Investigations on this subject are in progress. 

19 



C. MISCELLANEOUS 

1. The following papers were presented at the Annual sessions of the Ceyion Association for 
the Advancement of Science by members of the division. 
(i) "Diagnosis and correction of magnesium deficiency in coconuts"—by D.A. Nethsinghe, 

M.A.T. de Silva and D.E.G. Nedimale. 
(ii) "The use of radioactive phosphorus in fertilizer placement studies on the coconut palms" 

by D.A. Nethsinghe and T.S. Balakrishnamurthi. 

The Soil Chemist addressed the Southern Province Planters' Association on the problems of Leaf 
Scorch and Magnesium Deficiency. 

2. The following articles were published in the Ceylon Coconut Planters' Review by members 
of the Division. 
(i) "Cover Crops under coconuts"—by M.A.T. de Silva. 

(ii) "Magnesium deficiency in Coconut palms"—by D.A. Nethsinghe. 

D. PERSONNEL 

Mr. D.E.G. Nedimala, Technical Assistant was successful in the B.Sc. Examination of the University 
of London. 

Mr. P.M. Harischandra, was promoted from the grade of Field Attendant to Field Assistant. 

Messrs. N.P. Ranaweera, A.M.P. Arthanayake and W.J.P. Fernando were appointed Lab/Field 
Attendants. 

There were no other staff changes. 

D.A. NETHSINGHE. 
So/7 Chemist, 

Coconut Research Institute. 

20 



REPORT OF THE CHEMIST 

1. Moisture studies on the Coconut Endosperm ('Typica' Palms) 

(a) The results of various moisture studies that have been made with a view to understanding 
better the changes that take place in the ripening coconut, the appraisal of the quality of copra and 
the mechanisms involved in its manufacture, have been reported earlier. 

In the manufacture of desiccated coconut, the kernel (after paring) is to all intents and purposes 
disintegrated with 'adventitious' moisture, picked up at the 'WASHING' stage of processing. The 
kernel of the freshly opened coconut too, may be reckoned to contain adventitious moisture, owing 
to the fact that it is in direct contact with the 'liquid endosperm' within the water cavity. 

An experiment was carried out with a view to obtaining reliable estimates of the moisture contents 
of the absolutely fresh endosperm from the following classes of nuts immediately on splitting:— 

1. Dead ripe nuts naturally falling from the palm ('Fallen Nuts'). 

2. Picked ripe green nuts. 

(a) Immediately on harvesting. 
(p) After IS days' seasoning in the field. 
(c) After 30 days' seasoning in the field. 

The full results of this study are charted in Table I. On the basis of earlier results it has been inferred 
that 43.8% (ranging between 42.0% and 45.9% may for all practical purposes be reckoned as the 
true moisture content of the fresh mature kernel after it has been air dried for ten minutes from the 
time of opening. 

The results of the present study show that the moisture content of the mature kernel when freshly 
opened is in the region of 46.9% (ranging between 46.0 and 47.8%). It may therefore be inferred that 
the 'adventitious' moisture associated with the wet kernel is of the order of 3 per cent. 

(b) The study on the moisture content of the coconut endosperm was also extended to the kernel 
of the immature drupe. 

Five lots of 25 nuts each from each of the four stages "Kalati", "Tender Kalati", "Kurumba" 
and "Tender Kurumba" (representing decreasing stages of maturity) were taken for the study. The 
full results are charted in Table II. The moisture estimations were carried out in each case, immediately 
on opening the nuts from the respective stages. In other words, the figures represent the moisture 
content of the endosperm (at the respective stages) when it is associated with "adventitious moisture". 
The results are self explanatory. 

21 



TABLE I 
Moisture content of the Coconut Endosperm when it is associated with "Adventitious Moisture' 

1 2 3 

Sample 

FALLEN NUTS 
(Dead ripe 

nuts naturally 
falling from 

the palm) 

PICKED RIPE GREEN NUTS 

Sample 

FALLEN NUTS 
(Dead ripe 

nuts naturally 
falling from 

the palm) 

Immediately on 
harvesting) 

After 15 days 
seasoning in 

the field 

After 30 days 
seasoning in 

the field 

1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 

10 

46.67 
46.59 
46.92 
46.31 
46.48 
46.02 
47.83 
47.29 
47.30 
47.31 

47.14 
46.41 
46.83 
46.37 
47.73 
46.96 
46.94 
47.81 
47.96 
48.07 

44.91 
44.53 
43.81 
45.18 
43.95 
44.04 
43.93 
44.53 
43.98 
44.93 

44.36 
44.26 
42.99 
43.44 
43.58 
43.16 
44.22 
43.23 
43.09 
43.37 

Mean 46.87 47.22 44.38 43.57 

Range 46.02 
to 

47.83 

46.37 
to 

48.07 

43.81 
to 

45.(8 

42.99 
to 

44.36 

S.D. 0.5563 0.6291 0.5007 0.5196 

CV.(%) 1.19 1.33 1.13 | 1.19 

S.E. 0.1759 0.1989 0.1583 0.1643 

TABLE II 
Moisture content of the Immature Coconut Endosperm when it is associated 

with 'Adventitious Moisture' 

1 2 3 4 5 

Sample Kalati Tender Kalati Kurumba Tender Kurumba 

1 
2 
3 
4 
5 

66.23 
64.71 
64.70 
66.50 
65.80 

68.11 
68.22 
66.50 
67.85 
67.20 

85.99 
85.79 
84.34 
85.10 
84.65 

93.80 
92.81 
91.87 
93.12 
92.43 

Mean 65.59 67.58 85.17 92.81 

Range 64.70 
to 

66.50 

66.50 
to 

66.22 

84.34 
to 

85.99 

9T.87 
to 

93.80 

S.D. 0.8439 0.7201 0.7108 0.7253 

CV.(%) 1.29 1.07 0.83 0.78 

S.E. 0.3774 0.3220 0.3179 0.3244 

S.D. = Standard Deviation. 
C.V. = Coefficient of Variation. 
S.E. = Standard Error. 



2. Copra 
(a) Work in connection with the Copra Conversion Factor for the FAO Survey, was completed 

during the early part of the year. 
(b) Seven samples of copra sent by the Botanist (from his Experiment 54/61—Di-allel Crosses) 

were analysed for moistures and oil contents with the results shown in Table HI. 

TABLE HI 
Moisture and Oil Contents of copra from Botanist's Experiment 1954/1961 

1 2 > 1 4 

No. Botanist's 
Reference % Moisture 

% OIL 
No. Botanist's 

Reference % Moisture 
Wet bsais Dry basis 

1 54/61(2) 6.9 64.6 69.4 
2 54/61(3) 12.1 56.3 64.1(?) 
3 54/61(4) 11.1 61.4 69.1 
4 54/61(5) 8.1 63.9 69.5 
5 54/61(6) 10.9 60.7 68.2 
6 54/61(7) 12.6 60.2 68.8 
7 54/61(8) 5.8 ' 65.3 69.3 

(c) Standard Ceylon Copra Kiln.—In connection with the training course provided for a visitor 
from Pakistan, a study was made of the drying-time curve obtained with the Standard Ceylon Copra 
Kiln when following the operational schedule outlined in the Coconut Research Institute Leaflet No. 15. 

The samples for moisture determinations were drawn from two levels (upper and lower) on the 
drying platform and the results obtained are summarised in Table IV below: 

TABLE IV 
Moisture Changes in Copra during Curing Procedure in the Standard Ceylon Copra Kiln 

1 2 3 4 5 

STAGE 

No. of 
hours 
since 

% MOISTURE 
Total loss of MOIS­

TURE (%) since 
splitting 

Total Moisture loss as 
% of original 

split­
ting 

Lower 
Level 

Upper 
Level 

Mean Lower 
Level 

Upper 
Level Mean Lower 

Level 
Upper 
Level 

Mean 

On Splitting 
After Sundrying 
After 1st Fire 
After 2nd Fire 
After 3rd Fire 
After 4th Fire 
After 5th Fire 
After 6th Fire 
After 7th Fire 
After 8th Fire 

nil 
10 
19 
34 
43 
58 
67 
82 
91 

106 

43.30 
33.15 
22.49 
20.24 
17.27 
16.45 
14.13 
13.03 
8.84 
8.08 

43.30 
33.15 
32.42 
28.06 
23.79 
21.92 
20.47 
16.52 
8.54 
7.50 

43.30 
33.15 
27.46 
24.15 
20.53 
19.18 
17.30 
14.78 
8.69 
7-79 

nil 
10.15 
20.81 
23.06 
26.03 
26.85 
29.17 
30.27 
34.46 
35.22 

nil 
10.15 
10.88 
15.24 
19.51 
21.38 
22.83 
26.78 
34.76 
35.80 

nil 
10.15 
15.84 
19.15 
22.77 
24.12 
26.00 
28.52 
34.61 
35.51 

nil 
23.4 
48.1 
53.3 
60.1 
62.0 
67.4 
69.9 
79.6 
81.3 

nil 
23.4 
25.1 
35.2 
45.1 
49.4 
52.7 
61.8 
80.3 
82.7 

nil 
23.4 
36.6 
44.2 
52.6 
55.7 
60.0 
65.8 
80.0 
82.0 

Regarding essential drying principles it is generally reckoned that the moisture content of the 
kernel should be progressively reduced to about 35% 20% and 6% during consecutive 24 hour drying 
periods. The earlier results have shown that these requirements are generally fulfilled during the first 
48 hours which may be regarded as the critical period of dehydration. The present results (averages of 
Lower and Upper Levels) too confirm this. Regarding the 3rd period of 24 hours however, it will be 
seen that the rate of dryage is definitely slow in terms of the requirements. It is proposed to investigate 
this point further. 



"TABLE V 

Chemical Examination of Samples of Desiccated Coconut collected at three Mills 

Sample 

DESICCATED COCONUT MILL I 

Sample % 
Moisture 

%OIL 
Remarks 

Sample % 
Moisture Wet basis Dry basis 

Remarks 

Finished Product I 

Finished Product II 

Lumps 1 
Lumps 11 

1.61 

1.79 

70.0 

70.1 

71.1 

71.3 

Composite sample before sifting into 
Grades 
Composite sample before sifting into 
Grades 

i 

Finished Product I 

Finished Product II 

Lumps 1 
Lumps 11 

1.70 70.1 71.2 MEAN 

Finished Product I 

Finished Product II 

Lumps 1 
Lumps 11 

26.8 
14.7 

54.5 
62.0 

74.4 
72.7 

MEAN 20.8 58.2 73.6 

DESICCATED COCONUT MILL II 

Finished Product I 
Finished Product 11 
Finished Product III 

Lumps I 
Lumps 11 

1.91 
1.94 
1.88 

68.7 
69.3 
69.6 

70.0 
70.7 
71.0 

Composite samples before sifting 
Finished Product I 
Finished Product 11 
Finished Product III 

Lumps I 
Lumps 11 

1.91 69.2 70.6 MEAN 

Finished Product I 
Finished Product 11 
Finished Product III 

Lumps I 
Lumps 11 

5.38 
5.49 

68.0 
67.9 

71.9 
71.8 

MEAN 5.44 68.0 71.8 

DESICCATED COCONUT MILL III 

Finished Product I 
Finished Product 11 

FORMATION OF L 

2.03 
2.28 

69.5 
69.2 

70.9 
70.8 

Composite samples before sifting Finished Product I 
Finished Product 11 

FORMATION OF L 

2.16 69.4 70.8 MEAN 

Finished Product I 
Finished Product 11 

FORMATION OF L UMPS NOT EVIDENT 

24 



1 Desiccated Coconut 

25 

(a) In connection with the work of the Technical Committee on Desiccated Coconut, three factories 
were visited and certain experimental samples were processed. The chemical analyses of the samples 
drawn for laboratory examination are given in Table V. 

The Ceylon standard specification prescribes a moisture content under 3.0% and an oil content 
Over 65.0% (wet basis) for granulated desiccated coconut. The analytical data show that the composite 
samples of the finished product drawn at the three factories are all satisfactory from the point of view 
Of these characteristics. In spite of this fact, it is noteworthy that the samples from Mills I and II contained 
very moist lumps—the moisture contents ranging between 5.4% and 26.8%. There is no doubt that 
these moist lumps could very well constitute foci of bacterial invasion. The plausibility of this assumption 
was actually confirmed by bacteriological tests. 

{b) Losses of Dietary Factors during Desiccated Coconut Manufacture.—A simple Ad hoc laboratory 
experiment was carried out in order to obtain an assessment of the combined losses in the major dietary 
factors to Wash and Sterilization waters during desiccated coconut manufacture. The results (that 
have been embodied in a mimeographed brochure) show that the sterilization of the pared coconut 
kernel in boiling water involves losses affecting its constitutive food factors (fat, protein, carbohydrates 
and minerals) with consequent detraction from quality. From the quantitative angle the experiment 
has revealed that in terms of average exports—the economic losses to Ceylon's desiccated coconut 
industry every year would be of the order of 6.9 lakhs of rupees if fresh coconuts were processed, and 
4.9 lakhs if seasoned nuts are used in desiccated coconut manufacture. Since these are dead losses to 
the industry, the subject certainly warrants attention. 

4. Pot Culture Experiment 
(a) A Fourth sand Pot Culture Experiment on 288 amputated coconut seedlings was laid down 

in April. The experiment has been designed to evaluate the concentrations of the macronutrients— 
N, P, K, Ca and Mg in the laminae and rachids of leaves of different ranks, and their gross concentrations 
in the composite shoots and roots. 

(b) The work of the Division was focussed principally on analytical work on plant samples from 
the previous Pot Culture Experiments. 
5. Vinegar 

(a) A new Vinegar Factory at Nainamadama employing the "Generator" process went into 
production in June. 

After the generator had been seeded it was found possible to completely acetify toddy within six 
days. The acetification efficiency was over 85% and the quality of vinegar produced has been uniformly 
good. 

(6) A satisfactory method was evolved during the year for the preparation of caramel (of high 
tinctorial efficiency) for colouring vinegar. A bottle of this caramel has been found adequate to colour 
20 gallons of vinegar to dark wine-tint. 

(c) A simple Ad hoc experiment was carried out during the year to test the efficacy of common 
Salt in retarding the growth of mycodermal film in bottled vinegar. It was found that a minimum con­
centration of 2 per cent salt dissolved in the vinegar would completely arrest the formation of any 
mycodermal suspensions. 

As an effective substitute for sterilisation, common salt at a concentration of 2% is now being used 
at the Nainamadama factory. 
6. Miscellaneous Work 

1. Analyses and reports have been made on a few samples of copra, desiccated coconut, coconut 
oil, coconut poonac and farmyard manure.. 

2. Apart from help and advice, regular samples of acetifying toddy were analysed for the vinegar-
maker at Nainamadama. 

3. The Chemist served on the technical Committee on Desiccated Coconut during the year. 
4. The Chemist served on the Standards Sub-Committee on Coconut Oil during the year. 

W.R.N. NATHANAEL, 
Chemist, Coconut Research Institute. 



REPORT OF THE BOTANIST 
HYBRIDISATION BETWEEN VARIETIES AND FORMS 

The programme of work on breeding and selection of coconut palms was continued during the 
year. Crossing work on three experiments initiated in 1961, viz. (a) diallel crosses, (b) testing male 
transmitters from selected palms of the Isolated Seed Garden, and (c) study of the influence of the 
male parent on endosperm characters of the nut, was completed during the year and harvesting of nuts 
JS in progress. 

New experiments initiated during the year are: (a) a further diallel cross between 10 selected palms, 
(b) study of segregation of characters in the Fl of typica X pumila, (c) study of Fv progenies of gon-
thembili X regia forms, and (d) a field experiment to study the relative performances of F x palms of 
typica X typica, typica X pumila and typica open-pollinated. 

Data collected from the progenies of various crosses under investigation are given below. 

Typica X pumila 
The experimental material consisting of 22FX palms of typica X pumila (tall X dwarf) planted in 

1950 has given a mean yield of 146 nuts and a husked-nut weight of 284 lb. per palm in 1962, i.e. the 
12th year after planting. The yield of the 10 typica X typica F x palms planted in the same field during 
the same year has been equally high: 161 nuts with a husked-nut weight of 287 lb. per palm in 1962. 
The yearly mean yields of the palms of these two types of crosses are listed in Table I. 

TABLE I 

Mean yield per progeny of F x palms of experimental material 

Year after 
planting 

typica 

Nuts 

X pumila 
Weight of 

husked-nuts 
(lb.) 

typica 

Nuts 

X typica 
Weight of 
husked-nuts 

(lb.) 

5th 23 36.0 — — 
6th 68 106.1 22 35.8 
7th 86 122.9 52 70.0 
8th 65 110.5 65 102.2 
9th 103 147.0 84 126.7 

10th 108 187.8 88 — 
11th 129 225.6 121 212.3 
12th 146 284.1 161 286.9 

Out of palms planted in May 1958, in order to study their performance on a larger scale, there 
are 193 of typica X pumila and 72 of typica, excluding casualties. Their progress in flowering has been 
as follows:— 

Palms in flower 
Age of palms—3 J years 

typica X pumila 87 per cent 
typica X typica • 19 percent 

Age of palms—4£ years 
typica X pumila 95 percent 
typica X typica 50 per cent 

26 



The above data clearly indicate that the ¥ 1 palms of typica X pumila are early bearing. These palms 
have been planted in a block at Ratmalagara Estate where the soil is of a heavy clay type and conse­
quently not very suitable for coconuts. Yet it is interesting to record that the early flowering character 
,is maintained. Because of adverse soil conditions, the palms have suffered, particularly in periods of 
.drought, but so far there are no indications that typica X pumila palms are affected more than the 
typica palms. 

Now that there is sufficient data available on an experimental basis to indicate that the hybrid palms 
are early bearing and high-yielding, it is necessary to test them in relation to normal plantation type 
Of palms on a statistical lay out. With that end in view, a field trial was laid down at Pothukulama in 
November 1962. Three treatments are being tried out: (i) typica X pumila, (ii) typica X typica, and 
fliii) typica open-pollinated. The design of the experiment is randomised blocks, with 12 replications 
and 12 palms per plot. 

Typica x typica 

The programme of production of seedlings of typica X typica, where the male parent is a prepotent 
palm was continued during the year. Pollinations were carried out at 6 stations and nearly 57,500 female 
flowers have been pollinated. 13,679 nuts resulting from pollinations done in the previous year were 
harvested. 

Isolated Seed Garden 

In field No. 1 (4£ acres) planted in December 1955, 49-3 per cent of the palms were in full bearing 
giving a mean yield of 84 nuts per palm, and most of the other palms were in partial bearing. Yield 
per acre during the year was 4,174 nuts on an area basis. Nearly 16 acres were planted with hand polli­
nated seedlings, bringing the total area planted to 110 acres (approx). 

A programme to test male transmitters from palms within the Seed Garden was initiated. Six 
selected palms were used as the male parents in a crossing programme. 

REPLANTATION EXPERIMENT 

A field trial was laid down in 1950 to study the relative merits of three systems of underplanting 
senile coconut plantations: viz. (a) new clearing—planting after removing completely the old stand 
of palms, (b) gradual thinning—underplanting and removing the old stand gradually, and (c) no thinning— 
underplanting and removing the old stand in the 8th year. The design of the trial is randomised block 
layout with 7 replications and 25 palms per plot. 

It has been shown that the young palms in the no thinning system of underplanting have been 
at a disadvantage relative to the palms in the other two systems during the first few years of growth 
particularly with respect to yearly leaf production and early flowering (vide Annual Reports for 1957 
and 1959). 

The bearing status of palms has varied relative to the treatments as shown in Table II, where a 
full bearing palm is taken as one that has given a crop in the first harvest gathered at the beginning 
of the year. 



TABLE II 
Bearing status of palms in the Replantation Experiment 

Treatment 

8th year after planting 
No thinning 
Gradual thinning 
New clearing 

9th year after planting 
No thinning 
Gradual thinnin" 
New clearing 

10th year after planting 
No thinning 
Gradual thinning 
New clearing 

Full bearing 
Percentage of palms 

Partial bearing Non bearing 

8.0 8.6 83.3 
13.8 17.8 68.4 
32.4 17.3 50.3 

18.4 14.9 66.7 
38.5 16.1 45.4 
54.3 17.9 27.7 

35.6 6.9 57.5 
56.3 12.1 31.6 
75.1 9.8 15.0 

The analysis of transformed data of the number of palms in full—and partial—bearing indicates 
that the differences between the three treatments, with respect to full-bearing palms are statistically 
significant. As shown in the above table a significantly larger number of palms in the new clearing 
treatment were in full bearing during the 8th to 10th years relative to the other treatments. Differences 
in the number pf partial bearing palms between treatments were not significant. 

The yield Of copra per palm in full bearing palms was analysed after correcting for the number 
of bearing palms by the covariance technique. The differences between treatments with respect to yield 
of copra per bearing palm during the 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th years (Table III) were not statistically 
significant, i.e. the type of treatment had no effect on the yielding capacity of bearing palms during 
these years. 

TABLE ffl 
Yield per palm in full-bearing and yield per acre 

Yield of copra per palm Yield per acre 
in full-bearing (Ib) Nuts Copra (cwt.) 

8th year, after planting 
No thinning 19.2 225 1.21 
Gradual thinning 27.6 537 2.71 
New clearing 26.2 1,064 5.69 

9th year after planting 
No thinning 23.9 594 2.96 
Gradual thinning 24.3 1,244 5.76 
New clearing 25.6 1,720 8.42 

10th year after planting 
No'thinning 16.4 790 4.04 
Gradual thinning 18.2 • 1,263 6.03 
New clearing 20.0 1,766 8.71 

11th year after planting 
No thinning 30.3 1,584 • 8.65 
Gradual thinning 26.9 2,014 10.57 
New clearing 27.3 2,389 12.94 

12th year after planting 
Np thinning — 2,097 11.21 
Gradual thinning — 2,715 13.75 
New clearing — 2,906 15.31 

28 



In the above Table, yield per acre is on a basis of area of land irrespective of bearing status of palms. 

The analysis of variance of yield per acre data after appropriate transformations, show that the 
differences between treatments are significant (P = 0.05) as follows: 8th year—yield of nuts only, 
9th and 10th years—both yield of nuts and copra, 11 th and 12th years—not significant. When the critical 
differences are evaluated the only significant factor is that palms in the new clearing treatment have 
given significantly higher yield of nuts and copra than those in the no thinning treatment during the 
8th, 9th and 10th years, except yield of copra in the 8th year. The differences in yield of nuts and copra 
between the new clearing and gradual thinning treatments, and the latter and no thinning treatment 
are not significant. 

The old palms in the no thinning treatment were removed early in the 9th year, and it is interesting 
to note that theyield of young palms in this treatment has increased considerably two years later (Table 111). 

Thus, although the palms in the new clearing treatment were distinctly at an advantage over the 
other two treatments, the yield of copra per acre during the first 5 years of bearing has not been sufficiently 
high to offset the loss in crop due to the removal of the old stand of palms completely. A system of 
gradual thinning of the old stand of palms seems to be a feasible method of underplanting senile plan­
tations. 

Correlations 
The number of new leaves produced in each young palm during the 2nd to 6th years after planting 

and the total number of green leaves borne on each palm at the end of the 5th year in 122 palms of 
the new clearing treatment are available. These data have been used in phenotypic correlation studies 
with the flowering period, yield of nuts and weight of copra gathered during the 4 years, 9th to 12th 
after planting. 

TABLE IV 

Phenotypic correlation coefficients between leaf production, flowering-
period and yield of young palms 

Xflowering 
period 

Correlation coefficient, r 
X yield of 

nuts 

X yield of 
copra 

No. of leaves produced in the 2nd year - 0 5076* 01269* 0-1809* 
No. of leaves produced in the 3rd year -0 6836* 0-3956* 0-3912* 
No. of leaves produced in the 4th year -0 8046* 0-4903* 0-5001* 
No. of leaves produced in the 5th year -07556* 0-5618* 0-5982* 
No. of leaves produced in the 6th year -0-7698* 0-6277* 0-6443* 
Total No. of leaves produced from 2nd 

to 6th year -0-8560* 0-5773* 0-6029* 
Total No. of green leaves borne on 

palm at the end of the 5th year -0-8092* 0-5438* 0-5894* 
Flowering period -0-5442* -0-5521*-

•Significant Value of r = 0.1684 (P = 0.05) 

Yearly leaf production from the 2nd to the 6th year is negatively correlated with the flowering-
period. Thus, in a programme of selective thinning of transplanted material, it is possible to use an index 
of leaf production for rogueing purposes, with a view to promote early flowering of palms in the popu­
lation. Leaf production and initial yield of palms, both nuts and copra, are positively and significantly 
correlated, but the magnitude of the correlation coefficient is not so high as in the previous case. 

2 9 



PLANTING TECHNIQUES 

Hedge Planting 
The observation plots of a new system of close planting for selective thinning, planted at Ratmalagara 

Estate in 1956 and the Isolated Coconut Seed Garden, in 1957, show satisfactory growth although the 
palms are spaced in rows 24 feet apart and 18 feet within each row. Close planting as in this trial appa­
rently has no adverse effects on early flowering: 91.5 per cent of the palms in the Hedge Planting Plots 
and 75.6 per cent in the rectangular planting plots at Ratmalagara have flowered by the end of the 
6th year after planting. It is necessary to ascertain the yield of copra per unit acre under the two systems 
of planting. 

Depth of Planting 
Pour depths of planting, 6 12, 18 and 24 inches are being tried out in this trial planted in November 

1956. It has been shown that there were no significant differences between treatments with respect to 
yearly leaf production during the first five years. At the end of the 6th year, 39 per cent of the palms 
in the entire trial were in flower and the differences between treatments with respect to number of palms 
in flower were not significant. 

PROGENY TRIALS 

The three progeny trials at Marandawila, Walpita and Bandirippuwa were maintained during 
the year. A number of selected palms from the Marandawila plantation were used for pollination work. 

MISCELLANEOUS 
Seed Supply Scheme 

Seven estates were visited for selection of palms and 3.643 palms were selected from two estates. 
A total of 44,467 palms have been selected from 16 estates by the end of the year. 1,606,261 selected 
seednuts were supplied to the Planting Division. 

Nursery 

5,899 hand pollinated seedlings were issued. 

Pollen Bank 
Storage of pollen collected from prepotent typica palms and selected pumila palms was maintained. 

1964 pollen samples have been issued to private estates to carry out their own pollination programme. 

Other Field Trials 
Routine observations, yield recording, etc., of Latin Square experiment, Dwarf Palm Block, and 

Inbred Progenies were continued. 

Publications 
The following papers were published. 
1. Dr. D. V. Liyanage. "The use of isolated seed gardens for coconut seed production". The Ceylon 

Coconut Quarterly, Vol. 12, Nos. 3/4. 
2. Dr. D.V. Liyinage. "Genetic improvement of the coconut palm". Proceedings of the Symposium 

on Tropical Crops Improvements:—Tenth Pacific Science Congress, South Pacific Commission, 
Noumea. 

3. Dr. D.V. Liyanage. "The isolated seed garden". The Ceylon Coconut Planters Review, 
Vol. 2, No. 4. 

D.V. LIYANAGE 
10th April, 1963 Botanist, Coconut Research Institute. 

3 0 



REPORT OF THE ACTING AGROSTOLOGIST 

I. Soil Fertility Studies 

1. Soils from Bandirippuwa Estate 

The experiment set up last year with soil from the experimental area of P 7 and planted to 
Brachiaria brizantha was completed this year, with the eighth harvest. 

The trend of responses is similar to that obtained in the case of Brachiaria milliformis—H, P, and 
K being deficient—the deficiency due to N being acute. Mean increments of yields recorded for the 
eight harvests, for N, P and K were 151.78%, 35.31% and 14.03% respectively. 

This experiment was then repeated late this year as follows:— 

Pots were filled with fresh soil from the P 7 experimental area (Replicate two, Estate Control Plots) 
and a 3 X 2 X 2 experiment with N, P and K planted to Brachiaria brizantha and Brachiaria milliformis 
was set up. 

Commercial fertilizers were used. The pots were kept outside and watered with rain water, as done 
previously. 
2. Cinnamon Sand from Horekelle Estate 
(a) Soils 3£ years after manuring 

The two experiments set up with this soil late last year have been completed. 

Experiment I 

This was a 2 5 factorial pot experiment of N, P, K, Ca and Mg with two replicates of all treatments 
planted to Paspalum commersonii. 

The experiment was harvested twice. The results indicate very acute deficiencies of N and K. The. 
same was true of soils sampled in this plot earlier. 

Experiment II 

This was a 4 2 factorial pot experiment of N and K, with two replicates of all treatments, planted 
to Paspalum commersonii. A basal application of 5 cwts./acre CaCO s was made at the time of planting. 

The experiment was harvested thrice. 
The data indicate an acute deficiency of N and to a lesser extent, of K. 

(6) Soils A year after manuring 

Soils were sampled, of the follow-up plot 4 years after manuring in April, this year, and the following 
experiments set up:— 

Experiment I 

This was a 2 5 factorial pot experiment of N, P, K, Ca and Mg, set up as for experiment 2 (a) I. 
The experiment was carried through two harvests each for the first and second plantings. 
The data indicate acute deficiencies of N and K. This was the same as obtained for soils of this 

plot sampled earlier. 

Ca was found to depress yields during the early stages—but increased yields later. 

1740—3 

31 



Experiment II 

32 

This was a 4 2 factorial pot experiment of N and K, set up as for Experiment 2 (a) JJ. However, the 
basal treatment was omitted. 

The experiment was harvested four times. Acute deficiencies of N and K were noted. 

(c) Soils 4\ years after manuring 
Soils were sampled of the follow-up plot 4i years after manuring in October this year, and the 

following experiment set up:— 

Experiment I 

This was a 4 2 factorial pot experiment of N and K, set up as for Experiment 2 (b) II. 

3. Soils from Rarmalagara Estate 
A. Soils were sampled of Block A follow-up, 2$ 3 and 3£ years after manuring. 

(a) Soils 2\ years after manuring 
Experiment I 

This was a 3 X 2 X 2 factorial pot experiment of N, P and K, with three replicates of all treatments, 
planted to Paspalum commersonii. 

The experiment was harvested thrice. 
The data indicate that all tested nutrients (N, P and K) increased yields significantly, P increasing 

yields especially in the early stages of growth, while K increased yields at the later stages. 

Experiment U 

This was a 4 2 factorial pot experiment of P and K, with two replicates of all treatments, planted 
to Paspalum commersonii. 

The experiment was harvested four times. The data indicate an early deficiency of P and a later 
deficiency of K. 

(b) Soils 3 years after manuring 
Experiment I 

This was a 3 X 2 X 2 factorial pot experiment of N, P and K, set up as for experiment 3 (a) I. 

The experiment was harvested thrice. A similar trend of responses as in Experiment I was noted 
here too. 

Experiment II 

This was a 4 2 factorial pot experiment of P and K set up as for Experiment 3 (a) II. 
The experiment was harvested thrice. The data indicate a similar trend of responses as noted in 

that experiment. 

(c) Soils 3£ years after manuring 
Experiment I 

This was a 3 X 2 X 2 factorial pot experiment of N, P arid K set up as for Experiment 3 (a) I, 



Experiment II 

3 3 

This was a 4 2 factorial pot experiment of P and K set up as for Experiment 3 (a) II. 
Both experiments were set up late this year and are in progress. 

B. Block B—Soils were sampled of Block B (follow-up), 1$, 2, 2\ years after manuring, 
(a) Soils 1 \ years after manuring 

Experiment I 

This was a 3 X 2 X 2 factorial pot experiment of N, P and K set up as for Experiment 3 (a) I. 

The experiment was harvested thrice. A similar trend of responses as observed for 
.Experiment 3. A. (a) I was noted here too—all tested nutrients N, P and K increasing yields—P increasing 
yields during the early stages of growth, while K increased yields at the later stages. 

Experiment II 

This was a 4* factorial pot experiment of P and K, set up as for Experiment 3. A. (a) 11. 
The experiment was harvested thrice. Here too, a similar trend of responses was noted—P increasing 

yields at the early stages of growth while K increased yields at the later stages of growth. 

(6) Soils!years after manuring 
Experiment I 

This was a 3 X 2 X 2 factorial pot experiment of N, P and K set up as for Experiment 3. A. (a) I. 
The experiment was harvested twice for the first planting and once for the second. 

The data indicate deficiencies of all tested nutrients —N, P and K—the same trend of responses, 
was observed here too. 

Experiment n 

This was a 4* factorial pot experiment of P and K set up as for Experiment 3. A. (a) II. 

The experiment was harvested twice for the first planting and once for the second planting. The 
responses were also similar. 
(c) Soils 2\ years after manuring 

Experiment I 

This was a 3 X 2 x 2 factorial pot experiment of N, P and K set up as for Experiment 3. A. (a) I. 

Experiment II 

This was a 4 2 factorial pot experiment of P and K, set up as for Experiment 3. A. (a) II. 
Both experiments were set up late this year and are in progress. 

4. Keenekelle Soils 
Experiment I 

This was a 2 5 factorial pot experiment, to test the effect of the minor nutrients, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mo 
on the growth of:— 

(i) Paspalum commersonii — 2 replicates 
(ii) Phaseolus lathyroides — 1 replicate 

(iii) Sesamum indicum — 1 replicate 

The experiment was harvested four times for Paspalum commersonii; thrice for the first planting 
and once for the second planting for Phaesolus lathyroides, and once for Sesamum indicum, Thinnings 
Were included for Phaseolus lathyroides and Seasmum indicum for additional data, 

The data indicate no response to any of the tested nutrients, 



Experiment II 

3 4 

This was a simple experiment to study the effect of Sulphur on the growth of Paspalum commersonii. 
The experiment was harvested once and two sets of 'thinnings' taken for additional data. 

The data indicate no significant response to added sulphur. 

Experiment I EI 

This was a 4 s factorial pot experiment of N, P and K with two replicates of all treatments planted 
to Paspalum commersonii. 

The experiment was harvested thrice and two sets of 'thinnings' included for additional data. All 
tested nutrients—N, P and K increased yields—the response to added P being more evident at the 
early stages of growth while the response of added K was more at the later stages. 

5. Pothukulama Soils 
(a) Soils under old plantations 

The experiment set up late last year with this soil has been completed. 

Experiment I 

This was a 4 2 factorial pot experiment, with two replicates of all treatments, to measure the effect 
of increasing doses of N and K on the growth of Paspalum commersonii. 

The forms and levels of nutrients applied were:— 

N . a s N H 4 N 0 3 — Nil, 1£, 3 and 4£ cwts./acre. 
P. as N a H 2 P 0 4 — Nil, \\, 3 and4£cwts. /acre. 

The experiment was harvested twice. Both tested nutrients increased yields. 

(b) Sub-Soil 
The sub-soil was sampled this year and the following experiments set up:— 

Experiment I 

This was a 2 5 factorial pot experiment of N, P, K, Ca and Mg on the growth of :— 
(i) Paspalum commersonii — 2 replicates 

(ii) Phaseolits lathyroides — 1 replicate 
(iii) Sesamum indicum — 1 replicate 

The experiment has been harvested twice for Paspalum commersonii, once each for Phaseolus 
lathyroides and Sesamum indicum, and is in progress. 

The results obtained so far, indicate acute deficiencies of N, P and K. There was no response to 
added N in the case of Phaseolus lathyroides, showing that effective nodulation had taken place. A 
depression of yields due to added Ca and Mg have been noted in the early stages. 

This is the same trend of responses as obtained for the top-soil but the deficiencies in the top soil 
were of a lower magnitude than that obtained for the sub-soil. 

Experiment n 

This was a 2 5 factorial pot experiment of Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn and Mo on the growth of:— 
(i) Paspalum commersonii, and 
(ii) Phaseolus lathyroides 

The experiment has been harvested once each for the two species tested and is in progress. 



Experiment i t 

3 5 

this was a 2 6 factorial pot experiment of Fe, Cu, Zn, Mo and B on the growth of Medicago saliva. 
The experiment was set up late this year and has proceeded through the 'thinnings' stage only. 

6. Ambakelle Soils 

Soils were sampled from an area cleared and planted to coconuts in 1958, and the following experi­
ment set up:— 

Experiment I 

This was a 2 5 factorial pot experiment of N, P, K, Ca and Mg on the growth of:— 
(i) Paspalum commersonii — 2 replicates 

(ii) Phaseolus lathyroides — 1 replicate 
(iii) Medicago saliva — 1 replicate 

The experiment was harvested thrice for Paspalum commersonii, once for the first planting and 
twice for the second planting oi Phaseolus lathyroides, and twice for Medicago saliva. 

High increments of yields were noted for N, P and K for Paspalum commersonii and with P and K 
for Phaseolus lathyroides. There was hardly any response to added N from Phaesolus lathyroides and 
Medicago saliva. This indicated, effective nodulation. 

In the case of Medicago sativa the response to P and K were not marked. 

II. Pasture Trials 
1. Comparison of grasses (PL)—Bandirippuwa Estate. 

Objective:—To ascertain the performance of Brachiaria milliformis B. brizantha and Panicmn 
maximum (Ginea Grass) under coconuts, and the effect of the pasture on the yield of coconut palms, 
as compared with estate (control). 

Manuring:—-The pastures were manured with 1 cwt./acre of Sulphate of Ammonia in July and 
I cwt./acre each of Sulphate of Ammonia and Muriate of Potash in December—manure being applied 
broadcast. 

Palm manuring was done in May-June with the normal estate manure mixture of 10 lbs./palm 
forked round the base. 

Cultivation:—Disc harrowing was done prior to manuring. 

Sampling and Grazing of pastures were done to schedule—2 adult cows grazing each of the Brachiaria 
plots while 9 adult cows grazed the Panicum plot. 

Pick:—The six picks for the year were recorded. 

Results:—The data were analysed by the Biometrician and a summary of the conclusions is given 
below:— 

1. Effect on nut yields 
(a) Nut yields:—The data show that in comparison to the control (weed) plot the Panicum pasture 

reduced the yield of the palms considerably (by 200 nuts/acre/year). The spp. of Brachiaria 
however increased nut yields—B. milliformis by 218 and B. brizantha by 95 nuts/acre/year. 
The trends in nut yields in the four plots over the period 1956-1962 are shown graphically in 
Figure I, where two year moving averages were converted to percentages with the first averaged 
values (that for 1956-57) taken as 100. The two year moving averages were take to eliminate 
fluctuation in yields due to bienniality in coconuts (Abeywardena 1963). 

(b) Herbage yields:—The total yield of two cuts each year taken after the May-June and Oct.-Nov. 
manuring and prior to the introduction of cattle are given in Table I. 



TABLE1 

Dry matter yield (lbs./acre) based on two ciits./year 

Pastures 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 Mean 

Panicum maximum 
Brachiaria brizantha 
Brachiaria milliformis 

. . 14,762 

. . 6,586 

. . 9,117 

16,934 
6,608 
8,243 

16,397 
7,616 
7,616 

12,298 
10,864 
8,064 

13,037 
7,168 
6,720 

14,672 
7,773 
7,952 

It may be noted that P. maximum produced almost twice the dry matter compared to the other 
two between which there is no worthwhile difference. 

Carrying capacity:—It is found that an adult Sinhala cow could be maintained on 0.34 acres 
of P. maximum pasture while 1.10 and 1.20 acres are necessary in the case of B. milliformis 
and B. brizantha respectively. 

Conclusion:—At the level of manuring (5.6 lbs. Sulphate of ammonia, 1.6 lbs. Saphos phosphate 
and 3.6 lbs. Muriate of Potash/palm/year) and type of managing, B. milliformis is the most suitable 
grass among those tested for this area. This grass has an additional advantage in its ease of establishment. 
2. Experiment (P2) Bandirippuwa Estate 

Objective:—(1) To ascertain the performance of Brachiaria milliformis and Paspalum commersonii 
under cultivated and uncultivated conditions; and the effect of the two pastures on coconut palms. 

(the P. commersonii was replaced with B. milliformis in 1959). 

(2) To test the efficiency of four fertilizer placement methods on the yield of coconuts:—(a) Buried 
in strips; (p) Buried in circles; (c) Open in circles and (d) Open in strips. 

Half of each plot is sub-soiled and each plot has four replicates of the fertilizer placements. 

Manuring:—The pastures were manured with 1 cwt./acre of Sulphate of Ammonia in July, and 
1 cwt./acre each of Sulphate of Ammonia and Muriate of Potash in December each year—manure 
being applied broadcast. 

Palm manuring was done in December this year, fertilizer placement being as per the treatments. 

Cultivation:—Disc-harrowing was done prior to manuring. Due to delay in the advent of the monsoon 
sub-soiling was done in early 1963. 

Sampling and grazing of pastures were done to schedule with 2 and 4 cows/plot in the 'New' 
B. milliformis (formerly Paspalum commersonii) and 'Old' B. milliformis plots respectively. 

Pick:—The six picks for the year were recorded. 

General:*-One of the experimental cows died during the fourth quarter, due to toxemia during 
pregnancy. 

Results:—1. Effect on nut yields 
(a) The two pastures:—Nut yields in the Paspalum commersonii plots were significantly higher 

than in the Brachiaria milliformis plots. 
(6) Cultivation:—Sub-soiling has a tendency to improve nut yields. But the benefit is felt only 

on the trees in the Paspalum commersonii plot and not in the B. milliformis plot. 
The yield of palms is given in Table II. 

36 



TABLE II 

Nuts/acre 

P. commersonii B. milliformis 

No sub-soiling . . . . 3,275 2,594 
Sub-soiling 3,633 2,582 

(c) The types of manuring:—-There has been no evidence of any response to the methods of fertilizer 
placement. It is submitted that the overall broadcast manuring applied to the pasture masked 
any effects. 

2. Herbage yields 
(A) The two pastures:—The herbage yields in Brachiaria milliformis were nearly 3 times that of 

Paspalum commersonii. 
(6) Cultivation:—The effect of sub-soiling on herbage yields follows almost the same trend as 

on nut yields. This is shown in Table JJJ. 

TABLE m 

Mean herbage yields (dry matter lbs./acre) for the two grasses and the two cultivations 

Dry matter-—lbs./acre 

P. commersonii B. milliformis 

Not sub-soiled 1,671 4,696 
Sub-soiled 1,926 4,751 

The beneficial effect of sub-soiling is shown more in the Paspalum commersonii plots. 

3. Experiment (P4) Ratmalagara Estate 
Objective:—To ascertain the performance of Brachiaria brizantha in cultivated and uncultivated 

conditions; and the effect of the pasture on the yields of palms. 
Experiment:—The experiment consists of two one acre plots—one half of each plot is sub-soiled. 

In 1959—the Paspalum commersonii plot was planted to B. brizantha—the experiment consisting of 
2 replicates under B. brizantha since 1960. 

Manuring:—Fertilizer was applied broadcast twice for the year—1 cwt./acre Sulphate of Ammonia 
in May/June, and 1 cwt./acre each of Sulphate of Ammonia, Saphos phosphate and Muriate of potash 
in Oct/Nov. 

Cultivation:—The plots were disc-harrowed both ways after manure application. 

Sampling and grazing of pastures have been done to schedule. Two adult cows grazed each of the 
plots alternatively every 28 days. 

Pick:—The 6 picks for the year were recorded. 
General:—-The palms in both plots are showing signs of yellowing. 

The pastures have been unevenly grazed—grazing being confined to certain patches, which due 
to repeated over-grazing have been infested with weeds. 

Results:—The data were analysed by the Biometrician and a summary of the conclusions is given 
below:— 

37 

Palm yields (mean nuts/acre) for the two pastures and the two types of cultivation 



Effect on nut yields 
(a) The two pastures:—The pastures have highly depressed nut yields, the depressing effect was 

less so in the case of Paspalum commersonii. 

This depressing effect of pastures on the yields of coconuts may be due to competition 
between the palms and the pastures—to the detriment of the former. 

(b) Cultivations:—Sub-soiling has a beneficial effect on nut yields. 
(c) Interaction of (a) and (6):—The beneficial effect due to sub-soiling is stronger in the case of 

the plots which were under Paspalum commersonii earlier. 

This same trend of the beneficial effect of sub-soiling being more pronounced in the case of Paspalum 
commersonii was observed in the experiment at Bandirippuwa Estate of (P2). This was due to the fact 
that most of the Paspalum commersonii plants died. 

2. Herbage yields (Brachiaria brizantha) 
Sub-soiling improves herbage production as showin in Table V. 

Mean herbage production (dry matter lbs./acre/year) and stocking capacity for the two types of cultivations 

Production Stocking capacity 
lbs. dry matter/acre AcreagejAnimals 

year 

No sub-soiling 740 0.6IS 
Sub-soiling 879 0.700 

4. Intensity of Grazing Trial (PB) Ratmalagara Estate 

Objective:—To ascertain the intensities of grazing (i.e. the carrying capacities) of Brachiaria brizantha 
and Paspalum commersonii. In 1959, all Paspalum commersonii plots were planted to Brachiaria brizantha. 
Thus from 1960, the experiment has been continued under a stand of Brachiaria brizantha only 
(2 replicates). 

Experiment:—The experiment consists of:— 
Two, \ acre plots with weeds (Estate control). 
Two, | acre plots with grass (ungrazed). 
Two, 1 acre plots with grass (grazed). 
Two, 1^ acre plots with grass (ungrazed). 
Two, 2 acre plots with grass (grazed). 

Manuring:—All plots were manured with 1 cwt./acre Sulphate of Ammonia in May/June and 
1 cwt./acre each of Sulphate of Ammonia, Saphos phosphate and Muriate of potash in Oct/Nov. this 
year. The manure was applied broadcast. 

Cultivation:—All plots were disc-harrowed both ways after manure application. 

Sampling and grazing of pastures were done to schedule—two adult cows grazing each of the plots 
grazed, for a period of 3 months with three months of rest following— 

i.e. January to March — Grazing period 
April to June — Resting period 
July to September — Grazing period 
October to December — Resting period 

Pick:—The 6 picks for the year were recorded. 

General:—In this experiment too, the palms are yellowing. This has been diagnosed by the Soil 
Chemist as due to mal-nutrition. 

Results:—The data available on effect of pasture on nut yield were analysed by the Biometrician 
and may be summarised as follows:— 

38 



i . Effect on nut yields 
(i) All pastures depressed nut yields. 

(ii) Ungrazed pastures depressed more than grazed pastures. 
This is shown in Table VI. 

TABLE VI 

Giving average nuts/acre/year for the different treatments 

Average nuts/acre/year 

Estate Control (£ acre) . . 
2 acres (grazed) grass . . 

5,541 
4,619 
4,496 
4,547 
4,064 

1£ acres (grazed) grass . . 
I acre (grazed) grass 
1 -J- acre (ungrazed) grass 

The depressing effect of pastures on the nut yields of coconuts, could be attributed to competition 
between palms and pastures for moisture, and or soil nutrients, to the detriment of the palms. This 
competition is less marked in the case of the grazed pastures. 

5. Rotational vs. Continuous grazing Experiment (P 0) Ratmalagara Estate 
Objective:—To compare two methods of grazing (i.e. rotational and continuous) and study its 

effects on the yields of pastures and coconuts. 

This experiment was commenced in 1960 and consists of 2 replicates—each replicate having one 
acre Brachiaria brizantha being grazed continuously while another acre of Brachiaria brizantha is divided 
into 4£ acre sub-plots and grazed rotationally. 

Manuring:—The experiment was manured with 1 cwt./acre Sulphate of Ammonia in May/June, 
and 1 cwt./acre each of Sulphate of Ammonia, Saphos phosphate and Muriate of potash in Oct./Nov., 
this year. Manure was applied broadcast. 

Cultivation:—All plots were disc-harrowed both ways after manure application. 

Grazing and sampling of pastures were done to schedule. One adult cow rotating every 2 weeks 
from sub-plot to sub-plot in the rotationally grazed plots, while one adult cow grazed throughout in the 
continuously grazed plots. All rotationally grazed sub-plots were sampled every two weeks before and 
after grazing while continuously grazed plots were sampled every two weeks. 

Pick:—The six picks for the year were recorded. 
General:—Grazing especially in the continuously grazed plots was very uneven. There was also a ten­

dency for the animals in adjoining plots to graze the areas abutting the fence separating these plots (herd 
instinct). As a result, these areas were overgrazed while there was considerable feed left in the other areas. 

The palms of these plots too are showing signs of yellowing. 
Results:—-The data available so far were analysed by the Biometrician. A summary of the conclusions 

is given below:— 

1. Effect on nut yields 
It is premature to comment on the effect on rotational and continuous systems of grazing on coconut 

yields. The indications are that nut yields are better in the continuously grazed plots. 

2. Herbage yields 
(i) Rotational grazing gives more herbage yields than continuous grazing. This is shown in 

Table VII. 

39 



TABLE VH 

Giving mean dry weights (lbs./acre) of pasture 

Dry matter (lbs./acre) 

Rotational . . . . . . 930 
Continuous . . . . . . 825 

(ii) The percentage of weeds seems to be higher in the rotationally grazed than the continuously 
grazed plots. 

This is shown in Table VIII. 

TABLE Vffl 

Giving percentage of weeds/acre 

% weeds/acre 

Rotational . . 1.07 
Continuous . . 0.8S 

6. Pasture cum manurial trial (P7) Bandirippuwa Estate 

Objective:—(1) To study the effect of two pastures on coconuts. 

(2) To study the competition between coconuts and pasture for the major nutrients, N, P and K. 

Experiment:—This was a 3 X 2 X 2 N.P.K. factorial experiment planted to Brachiaria brizantha 
and Brachiaria milliformis with Estate management as control in split plots. Each plot was approximately 
\ acre in extent. A pair of calves—one male and one female grazed each of the pasture plots. They rotated 
from one replicated to the other, after 28 days of grazing in each,—the pair of calves from one treatment 
moving to the same treatment in the next replicate. 

Manuring:—All plots were manured with split dosage (half total dosage) of Sulphate of Ammonia, 
full dosage of Muriate of potash and Saphos phosphate with the South-West monsoons in May; and 
the remaining split dosage (half total dosage) of Sulphate of Ammonia along with the North-East 
monsoons in November this year. 

Kieserite manuring of palms was done in November, as a result of the palms yellowing due to 
Magnesium deficiency. 

Cultivation:—All plots were lightly harrowed prior to manuring. 

Grazing and sampling ofpastures and Estate (control) plots have been done to schedule—the pastures 
being sampled before and after each grazing, while the Estate (control) plots were sampled one month 
prior to and after each manuring. 

Cattle:—Due to outbreak of hoof and mouth disease among the cattle, there was temporary abate­
ment of cattle weighing—the animals being isolated in the plots itself. 

Towards the middle of the year, there was a certain amount of deterioration in the health of the 
herd maintained on this experiment resulting in the death of a calf due to general debility. Considerable 
improvement was shown towards the end of the year. Minerals have been given to these animals since 
the beginning of this year. 

Moisture readings have been temporarily stopped due to the moisture meters being out of order. 
Pick:—The six picks for the year were recorded. 
Results:—(1) Nut yields 

The results at this stage are very tentative and shown as % of the 19S9 yields for the main treatments 
in Table IX. 

40 



TABLE rx 

1959 i960 1961 1962 

100 102.5 156.3 122.9 
N 8 

100 100.1 162.1 124.2 
N 4 

100 85.5 181.8 145.3 

Pi 100 100.0 161.0 125.8 
P 2 

100 97.4 172.2 135.5 
Kj 100 95.8 158.2 • 123.4 
K 2 

100 101.7 174.5 137.5 

E.C. 100 97.8 168.6 144.3 
B.m. 100 100.9 170.7 130.4 
B.b. 100 97.6 160.0 117.1 

It may be noted that there is some improvement in the yields to the addition of fertilizers at all 
levels. The pastures, particularly B. brizantha, seem to have a considerable depressive effect on the yields 
of nuts. The main purpose of this experiment is to study the effect of the pasture at the various levels 
of manuring and it is hoped that within the next few years this information will emerge. 

2. Yield of pastures 

Considerable response to N was observed in both pastures. There was hardly any response to 
P and K. It is of interest to note that the yields during the May/June season were always higher than 
that during the Oct./Nov. season. The dry matter yields of samples taken following each manuring 
and prior to introduction of cattle for the years 1960 and 1962, of the main treatments are shown in 
Table X. 

TABLE X 

Dry matter yield (lbs./acre) of pastures following each manuring 

1960 1961 1962 
Pastures Treatments " ~~ ~ ~~~ ' ,, ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ,~" 

May/June Oct./Nov. May/June Oct./Nov. May/June Oct./Nov. 

Ni 3881 2459 3416 2139 4609 2285 
N 2 5466 . 2851 4122 2475 5079 3601 

Brachiaria N 4 5231 3478 4508 2879 6356 3730 

brizantha Pi 4962 2979 3993 2459 5718 3489 
P 2 

4760 2879 4038 2548 4979 2918 

Ki 4844 2929 4251 2526 5651 3187 
K 2 

4878 2929 3786 2487 5046 3220 

N, 4290 2386 2985 1731 4357 1350 
N 2 5180 3136 3959 2257 6222 1893 
N 4 

5427 3786 5550 2470 7392 2744 

Brachiaria Pi 5051 3007 4178 2313 5947 1854 
milliformis P 2 

4878 3187 4155 2005 6026 2145 

Kj 4503 3091 4189 2100 6160 1787 
K 2 

5421 3097 4139 2207 5813 2201 

It may also be noted that there was very little difference in the yield and response of the two pastures. 

41 

Number of nuts/plot/year as % of 1950 yields 



3. Carrying capacity of pastures 

Only the levels of Nitrogen have any appreciable difference among the manurial treatments on 
the number of days the two animals could graze the pastures. These are summarised in Table XI. 

TABLE XI 

Mean number of days grazed in the 3 levels 

B. brizantha B. milliformis 

N t 24.0 22.4 
N 2 27.5 26.3 
N 4 27.8 27.4 
Possible days 28.0 28.0 

The possible days (28) is based on the system of grazing where the animals rotate from replicate 
' to replicate after 28 days grazing. 

7. Frequency of cutting trial (P8) Ratmalagara Estate 
Objective:—To determine the optimum time between successive cuttings from the point of view of 

herbage quantity and quality. 

Experiment:—Consist of 5 frequencies of cutting with 2 levels of Nitrogen. 

Manuring:—Was done along with the monsoon rains—the two levels of Nitrogen (1 and 2 cwt./acre 
Sulphate of Ammonia), being applied in two split doses in May/June and Oct./Nov. All plots were mown 
to a height of approximately 3 inches, before each manure application. Sampling was done as per the 
treatments. Namely:— 

A — no cutting 
B — cutting every 2 weeks. 
C — cutting every 4 weeks. 
D — cutting every 6 weeks. 
E — cutting every 8 weeks. 

All dried samples of pastures are being preserved for chemical analysis. 
Results:—The data gathered so far was analysed by the Biometrician. A summary of the conclusions 

is given below:— 

1. Effect of higher dosage of Nitrogen 
There is better production of pastures with higher dosage of nitrogen as shown in Table XII. 

TABLE XII 

Pasture production (dry weight Ibs./acre/year) 
Afj (1 cwt./acre) N2 (2 cwts./acre) % increase 

Paspalum commersonii 1,823 2,423 32.9 
Brachiaria milliformis 5,601 6,686 19.4 

Mean pasture production (lbs. dry matter/acre/year) with dosage of N 

2. Effect of frequency of cutting 
More frequent cutting gives a higher to