9ª Aula - Introdução Cultura Coco - Fruticultua Tropical II - Edgley Soares

Summary

This video lesson provides an in-depth overview of coconut cultivation, focusing on its origin, economic importance, and cultivation techniques. The presenter highlights the coconut's roots in Asia, its introduction to Brazil in 1553, and its widespread uses—from natural products like coconut water to industrialized goods. It covers various types of coconut trees, particularly the giant and dwarf varieties, their growth requirements, and water and soil needs. The speaker also discusses the economic potential of coconut farming in Brazil, especially in terms of water production and its high return on investment, emphasizing the importance of proper irrigation and fertilization.

Takeaways

• 😀 The coconut tree is a highly productive and economically valuable plant, especially in tropical regions like Roraima, Brazil.
• 🌍 The coconut tree originated in Asia, and was introduced to Brazil in 1553 by the Portuguese, with Bahia being the first region where it was planted.
• 💧 Coconut trees require a significant amount of water and fertilizer, with Roraima's remote location making it challenging to supply these resources affordably.
• 🌱 There are two main types of coconut trees: the 'giant coconut' and the 'dwarf coconut.' Dwarf coconut trees are more precocious and produce fruit faster, whereas giant coconuts take longer to start producing.
• 📈 The coconut industry has over 360 uses, including food products like coconut milk, shredded coconut, and cocada, as well as non-food uses like organic fertilizers and car upholstery.
• 🌴 Brazil is the world's largest producer of coconut water and is the fourth-largest producer of coconuts globally, with a significant portion of production coming from the Northeast region.
• 🌞 The best conditions for coconut tree growth include warm climates and well-drained soils. They prefer sandy or loamy soils and can grow in areas with a soil depth of at least one meter.
• 💧 A mature coconut tree requires around 150 liters of water per day, with irrigation systems like micro-sprinklers being the most effective for ensuring the trees receive adequate water.
• 🌾 Coconut trees are highly susceptible to pests and diseases, and their production can vary depending on factors like irrigation and fertilization.
• 💰 Coconut farming can be a highly profitable business, with low production costs and high returns, especially when managed properly with good irrigation and fertilization practices.

Q & A

What is the origin of the coconut palm?

The coconut palm (coqueiro) originates from the Asian continent and was introduced to Brazil by the Portuguese in 1553.

Why is coconut cultivation not highly explored in Roraima?

Coconut cultivation in Roraima faces challenges due to its high demand for water and fertilizer. The region's distance from fertilizing sources makes them more expensive, limiting its widespread use.

What are the economic uses of coconut?

Coconut has a vast range of uses, both natural and industrial. These include coconut water, coconut milk, shredded coconut, coconut-based products like cocada, and non-food items like organic fertilizer, fiber for car upholstery, and more.

Which countries are the largest producers of coconut in the world?

The largest coconut producers are in Asia, with Indonesia, the Philippines, and India leading the list. Brazil is also a significant producer, especially of coconut water.

What makes Brazil a major player in coconut water production?

Brazil is the world's largest producer of coconut water due to innovations in packaging coconut water in cartons, which allowed it to be sold beyond beachside locations and into urban areas, making it widely available across the country.

What are the two main varieties of coconut palms?

The two main varieties of coconut palms are the 'giant coconut' (coqueiro gigante), which takes longer to mature, and the 'dwarf coconut' (coqueiro anão), which matures quickly.

What are the key differences between the giant coconut and the dwarf coconut?

The giant coconut takes 6-8 years to begin flowering and requires 4,500 to 5,200 fruits to produce one ton of copra. It can remain productive for up to 60 years. The dwarf coconut matures much faster, producing in 3 years but requires a higher number of fruits (9,000-12,000) to yield one ton of copra and has a productive life of around 40 years.

What are the irrigation requirements for coconut palms?

Coconut palms require a large amount of water, with mature plants needing around 150 liters per day. They thrive in well-aerated, well-drained soils and are highly sensitive to waterlogging.

Why is the coconut palm so demanding in terms of irrigation?

Coconut palms have large root systems and require a significant amount of water to maintain growth, with daily transpiration rates reaching up to 120 liters. Therefore, proper irrigation systems like micro-sprinklers are recommended.

What role does fertilization play in coconut cultivation, especially in Roraima?

Coconut palms, particularly in regions like Roraima, are very demanding in terms of fertilizers, especially potassium. The lack of easy access to fertilizers in the region makes cultivation more challenging but vital for productivity.