legume Cover-Crops for Oil Palms in West New Britain.

Abstract

Results are reported from an observation trial of different legume cover-crop species at Dami Oil Palm Research Station, in West New Britain. Experience with legumes, mainly Pueraria phaseoloides, on other trials and commercial oil palm plantings in the district is also summarized. Pueraria has been the most vigorous legume, and is well adapted to the local environment of high rainfall and volcanic ash soils. It forms a dense cover with much less effort expended on establishment and maintenance than is needed in Malaysia, thus having an important weed control function, and reducing field costs. The effect on the palms appears highly beneficial, high leaf nitrogen levels and good growth being achieved.