The Hindu Business Line : COD identified as best tender coconut variety

The advantages of this variety are that it bears early (within 30 to 40 months after planting); high nut water content ranging between 320 ml and 360 ml; has got 7 per cent total sugar against 4.2 per cent in other varieties; easy to harvest; and above all free from the eriophyid mite attack.

Considering the vast potential of this cultivar, the CPCRI regional station at Minicoy in Lakshadweep has already established a separate block of COD palms in the islands. It is also grown in the Kerala coast.

Meanwhile, studies conducted by scientists in Maharashtra have suggested that Philippines ordinary among the tall cultivars, COD among the dwarf cultivars, Banavali Yellow Round among the Banavali type and San Ramon among the exotic cultivars are the most suitable varieties for tender nut water.

Tender coconut has become a popular refreshing drink and around 50 per cent of the coconut production in West Bengal and Maharashtra is harvested at tender stage for this purpose, the scientists said. Growing awareness about the medicinal value of this natural drink has resulted in a spurt in the demand. The farmers could take up cultivation of these varieties in the coconut growing States, exclusively to cater to this segment. It would also increase their income, especially when there is a decline in the copra and oil prices, a senior CDB source told Business Line.

For instance, in Lakshadweep islands, where large number of tourists visit every year, there is no source for the regular supply of tender nuts. In the absence of a suitable tender nut variety, it is collected from the commonly available Laccadive Ordinary palms. Given this situation, cultivation of tender nut variety in the islands has a tremendous potential, they added.