All about Coconut Trees

My garden has a few coconut trees, more as a hobby than having any commercial value. Coconuts are a common crop seen around here. Some have acres of plantation and that is their business. Currently acute labour shortage has made coconut cultivation a nightmare. I have just about 10 trees and even  to maintain them is not easy.

After keeping enough for home consumption I do sell the rest but the money we receive hardly covers the cost of maintaining these trees Nevertheless  I love these trees and I keep them alive and healthy.

There is no limit to the kind of coconut varieties that exist today  and more are being created by mixing different varieties that could yield better and pest resistant varieties.

I have the TxD variety which is a combination of the tall and dward variety. This coconut tree will live for 30 years. They are already reaching their longevity and that would mean I would have to start planting and this time perhaps I will get better varieities.

I also have the dwarf variety which is good for tender coconuts. These coconut trees are short and harvesting is easy too.

The red variety coconut is considered best for health. As is known tender coconut water is good for any urinary complications but cannot be had by those who have kidney infections or failures. Coconut water is highest when it comes to its potassium content and potassium is fatal for those suffering from kidney infection and failures.

Every part of a coconut tree is used. Their fronds are woven and used for covering roofs. Their bark is cut into strips and used as beams for small houses. The coir from the husk is used to make ropes and other utility items.

Coconuts are found in most kitchens and used be it in curries, vegetable dishes and even in sweet dishes.  I tried making ice cream from tender coconuts using both the water and the meat. It was delicious.

For more details on coconuts you can visit the link

http://www.agritech.tnau.ac.in/expert_system/coconut/coconut/coconut_varieties.html