[Early results of three to the power of three NPK factorial fertilizer trial on Sahabat series for mature oil palm in Sabah [Malaysia]]
1996
Foong, Sang Foo | Azmi Mat | Ismail Hashim
A three to the power of three NPK factorial fertilizer trial was conducted for mature oil palm (1983 planting) planted on Sahabat series soil in Sabah. The rates of N tested were 0, 2.0 and 4.0 kg ammonium sulphate per palm per year, for P they were 0, 1.5 and 3.0 kg Jordanian Rock Phosphate per palm per year and for K at 0, 2.5 and 5.0 kg Muriate Of Potash per palm per year. Results over six years indicated that fresh fruit bunch (FFB) yield responded significantly to N applications. However, the response seemed to be linear showing that the highest rate used was inadequate. The application of N also increased leaf N and K levels but the leaf N level was still below normal. There was no significant response of P and K applications on yield. P application did not increase leaf P but K application increased leaf K. There was no interaction amongst N, P and K. The lack of yield response to P and K was probably due to the insufficient rate of N used in this trial. Higher rates of N i.e. at 3.0 and 6.0 kg ammonium sulphate per palm per year are currently being tested. Based on these early results, it is suggested that for the time being, the NPK fertilizer requirement for mature palms planted on Sahabat series should be 4.0 - 5.0 kg ammonium sulphate, 1.5 - 2.0 kg Jordanian Rock Phosphate and 3.0 - 4.0 kg Muriate Of Potash per palm per year depending on the yield potential of the area. Mg fertilizer is not recommended as the Exchangeable Mg in the soil is very high.
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