InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – Oil palm replanting is an essential step to sustain the productivity of plantations. Among various approaches available, intercropping emerges as an interesting option, though it requires careful consideration of numerous factors.
Replanting is critical to ensuring plantation productivity. Experts emphasize that the timing depends on factors like plant age, disease outbreaks such as Ganoderma, harvest challenges due to tree height, and the use of substandard seeds leading to low yields.
Replanting involves multiple steps, starting with the preparation of high-quality seeds, land measurement, and mapping. Proper land preparation includes plowing, loosening the soil, cutting old trees, and improving infrastructure such as roads and drainage. Weed control and the planting of cover crops, such as legumes, are also vital for maintaining soil balance.
Once the land is ready, replanting involves structured processes, including determining the planting density, preparing planting holes, applying base fertilizers, and using fungicides. Intensive maintenance follows, with tasks like flower pruning, pest and disease control, and regular fertilization.
Researchers from the Indonesian Oil Palm Research Center (PPKS) — Iman Yani Harahap, Eka Listia, and M. Syarovy — highlight several replanting methods, with intercropping being a notable option. Intercropping involves planting secondary crops between oil palm rows. However, selecting the right intercrops is critical to avoid competition for nutrients and water.
PPKS researchers suggest that suitable intercrops should have different root systems from oil palms, be resistant to pests and diseases, and hold economic value. Ideally, these crops should be easy to manage, have high market demand, and potentially enhance soil fertility while benefiting oil palm growth.
Nonetheless, intercropping poses challenges such as soil fertility, climatic conditions, and unpredictable rainfall. Studies indicate that certain intercrops, like soybeans and corn, can deplete nitrogen and phosphorus levels by up to 70%, although magnesium and calcium remain stable.
While intercropping offers mixed results, proper planning and fertilization can mitigate adverse effects on oil palm growth. Research shows that when executed correctly, intercropping does not necessarily harm oil palm plantations.
To sustain plantation productivity, a thorough understanding of replanting techniques and timing is essential. This approach ensures increased productivity and supports the sustainability of Indonesia's palm oil industry. (T2)
