Techniques of Soil and Water Conservation and Nutrient Recycling in Oil Palm Plantations on Inland Soils

摘要

This article discusses various techniques of soil and water conservation, and nutrient recycling practices in oil palm plantations with the aims of achieving the yield potential while safeguarding the environment using the most appropriate techniquesfor managing soils, water and nutrients so as to reduce soil deterioration and erosion. During the early stage of plantation development, there is a need to terrace slopes and build silt pits, establish legume covers and plant the oil palm as quickly aspossible, all of which will help to reduce run off and soil erosion. Other recommended practices at replanting are adoption of the zero burning technique, mulching with empty fruit bunch (EFB), placement of pruned fronds and trunk chips, land applicationof mill effluent (POME) and using Ecomat ~R, and soil water management through suitable irrigation practices. Such techniques increase the soil productivity and constitute sustainable practices.