Assessment of the effects of environmental factors on yield of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.)

Abstract

The long term nut yield data and climate data of eight variables (1976-1992) were analyzed to understand the effects of climate and weather on the yield variability between picks. The yield variation over the years had no systematic pattern. The order of contribution of the picks to total yield is not significantly consistent between years. Explanatory models were developed at monthly lag periods prior to harvest of each pick. The most and least influential picks in respect of climate variability are picks 5 and 2 respectively. The critical period with respect to climate and weather variability of picks 1-6 are February , June July, Septermber, December and February respectively. The climatic models fitted at these periods explain the yield variability between picks. The influence of climatic variables during these periods vary from pick to pick. Maximum air temperature and relative humidity in the afternoon are the two most significant environmental variables influencing yield irrespective of picks.