The Lagos State Coconut Traders & Sellers Association has urged coconut farmers to embrace high-quality seedlings to increase production and meet the growing demand of the produce to boost economic prospects.
The General Secretary of the association, Mr Tunde Hunpatin, made the call in an interview on Friday in Lagos.
Hunpatin said high quality-seedlings would enable coconut farmers to increase production, meet the growing market demand and improve their livelihood.
He said the demand for coconuts had been increasing globally due to consumers interest in healthy and sustainable food options.
“We want to encourage coconut farmers to increase their production output because, presently, demand has exceeded supply, thereby leading to high cost in price.
“Coconut farmers can start taking advantage of this expansion by using high-quality seedlings. Farmers can improve their yield and coconut quality when they plant improved coconut seedlings.
“Planting high-yielding varieties can lead to better prices and increased income for farmers.
“Planting coconut seedlings at the correct depth and spacing will ensure healthy growth and maintaining soil fertility. Organic or inorganic fertilizers are also needed to maintain optimal soil fertility.
“When unproductive trees are regularly replaced with new ones, they can help maintain a healthy and productive coconut farm,” he said.
The secretary said falling of productive coconut trees should be discouraged.
“It is important to preserve existing coconut trees, which is crucial to maintaining a stable supply.
“Farmers have been urged to explore alternative sources of income rather than cutting down productive trees for gain.
“Implementing these strategies can help coconut farmers increase their production output, meet the growing demand, and contribute to a more sustainable industry.
“The opportunities it would bring to farmers are endless, as most farmers can increase revenue, upgrade their livelihoods, and improve the long-term productivity of their coconut farms,” he said.
NAN
