InfoSAWIT, KUALA LUMPUR — Many small-scale palm oil farmers are still puzzled by consistently low harvests, even after applying fertilizer every year. The trees may look tall, but the fruit bunches are small and often not fully filled. Yellowing and dried leaf tips are other signs that something is wrong with the soil fertility.

Several studies reveal that the root of this problem lies in nutrient imbalance. Three main elements often missing in small farmers' land are nitrogen, phosphorus, and especially potassium (potash). When one of these elements is low, the palm tree cannot utilize other nutrients effectively. "Potassium is crucial for transporting water and nutrients within the plant. A deficiency can lead to brittle leaves, reduced flowering, and incompletely filled fruit bunches," according to information obtained by InfoSAWIT on Saturday (8/30/2025).

This condition is exacerbated in sandy soils and during heavy rainy seasons. The applied fertilizer is easily washed away before the roots can absorb it. In addition, the use of cheap fertilizers with incomplete formulas makes the palm trees weaker year after year. As a result, the harvest per hectare remains far below its potential.

So, what can be done? Experts previously advised palm oil farmers to conduct regular soil and leaf analyses, rather than simply mimicking their neighbors' fertilization patterns. By understanding the specific conditions of their land, farmers can provide balanced fertilizers that include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium as needed.

Additionally, the timing of fertilizer application is crucial. "Don't spread fertilizer just before heavy rain, as it will be washed away. Schedule your fertilization so that the nutrients are truly absorbed by the plants," the information noted. With more precise management, the productivity of smallholder palm oil has the potential to increase, helping farmers escape the trap of chronically low harvests. (T2)