Contract TS3*CT92-0132. "Coconut-based farming systems. Operational and economic analysis models". Final report
In the coconut-based farming system, coconut is generally the dominant plant. By obtaining an architectural mortel of the aerial parts of the coconut palm, it was possible to create three-dimensional computer mock-ups that reconstitute a plantation. The mock-ups were then used to perform radiative transfer simulations. These mock-ups were used for testing the effect of different parameters on PAR transmission or certain cropping practices. Architectural modelling and radiative simulations can be used to determine the best planting design so as to optimize light catchment by the intercropping system. Improving knowledge of coconut palm physiology resulted in parametrization of the operational mortel for adaptation to coconut. Study of biomass distribution in coconut, revealed that the most important assimilate sinks are the bunches. They atone account for 58% of the biomass produced annually in the aerial parts by an 8-year-old VRD x VTT coconut palm. The fronds only account for 34%. enabled the creation of three-dimensional computer mock-ups. Coconut-cocoa intercropping was examined in greater detail. Architectural modelling of both the aerial parts and the root system was achieved and three-dimensional digital mock-ups were created. Cocoa water consumption was similar in both intercrops and monocultures, at around 10 l H2O day-1 As regards other intercrops under coconut, trials carried out at three sites (Philippines, Tanzania and Vanuatu), gave very similar results, revealing that when soil and climatic conditions were good, there was no depressive effect due to root competition between the plants. However, as soon as the conditions were less good, as in Tanzania, where the water supply was limiting, the depressive effect on the intercrop, due to the presence of coconut palms, was logically greater the higher the coconut palm planting density. A cost-benefit analysis was used to develop a simple economic analysis mortel that would be easy for the extension services to use. By making comparisons, the model determines what advantages are to be from intercropping coconut rather than growing it in a monoculture