Management and development of oil palm cultivation in swamplands in perspective of limitation and sustainability

Abstract

Development of oil palm plantations in swamps in the last ten years has progressed rapidly as a result of limited availability of fertile lands. Due to the nature of the environment, productivity over swamp land is quite different from other ecosystems. Studies reported that average productivity of oil palm in swamps ranges from 0.8-1.2 tons fresh fruit bunch (FFB)/ha/month (equivalently 9-10 t FFB/ha). Economic analysis shows that this productivity level does not provide a benefit to the farmers. It was reported, however, that with the intervention and introduction of good management and technology, productivity of swamp land can reach 25-27 t FFB/ha and on peat soil it can reach 19 t FFB/ha. Socio-economic factors such as capital, knowledge, technology, labor, physical infrastructure or other facilities significantly affect palm oil productivity. Identification of economic, socio-political, and ecological aspects drive a concept of sustainable development for oil palm plantation. This paper reviews results related to this development in the perspective of limiting issues related to sustainability. Development of oil palm plantations expects high productivity and stability, yet promoting equality and local wisdom towards sustainable environment. Good management of soil and water is the key for oil palm farming in swamp lands. There are four properties of sustainable agroecosystems, namely productivity, stability, sustainability and equity.

Efficacy of herbicides and reductant at different levels to control invasive tall reed (Phragmites karka) in oil palm plantations

“…The conversion of peatlands into oil palm plantations is facing problems related to the productivity and sustainability of oil palm cultivation [2]. Flooded conditions, high soil acidity, high organic acid content, low soil fertility, thick peat layers, which cause increased anaerobic activity, and subsoil make this land not ideal for oil palm cultivation [3]. In the case of Pekan Tua, Indragiri Hilir, Riau, the oil palm productivity on thick peat is severely hampered due to a lack of management.…”

Seed Dormancy Breaking and Germination Rate Improvement in Mucuna (Mucuna bracteata) Seeds using Mechanical and Fungicide Treatments

“…An effective management in plantation practice plays a pivotal role in determining the optimal productivity of the oil palm [7][8][9]. Not only is it conducted on the mature oil palm, but it is also practiced on the seedlings (immature plants).…”

Feasibility of farming and farmer’s perceptions of introduced technology of rice cultivation on tidal swampland

“…Swampland used for production areas generally has many problems and constraints, such as the land's bio-physical aspects, socio-economic aspects, and supporting infrastructure [2]. The biophysical problems of tidal swampland are fluctuated and unpredictable water flooding, saltwater intrusion, soil and water acidity, the presence of toxic substances especially for rice crops, low and heterogeneity of soil fertility, and some have a layer of peat.…”