Growth Performance of Coconut (Cocos nucifera) in a Tropical Rooftop Nursery: Analysis of Growth Response to Environmental Factors

Abstract

This study investigates the intricate relationships between environmental factors and the growth performance of coconut plant (Cocos nucifera) in a rooftop nursery setting in the tropics. Coconut cultivation is of great economic and ecological importance, making it crucial to understand the environmental variables that influence growth. The coconut plant growth data and environmental parameters, including temperature (T), relative humidity (RH), light intensity (LI), height (H), leaf count (L), frond count (F), and stem diameter (D), were examined weekly over an extended period. Correlation analysis revealed interesting insights into the relationships between these variables. exhibited a positive correlation with temperature (r = 0.59 and light intensity (r = 0.35), suggesting that coconut growth is influenced by seasonal changes in temperature and sunlight exposure. Relative humidity showed a strong negative correlation with temperature (r = -0.75, indicating the interplay between these two critical factors. Notably, stem diameter (D) displayed a positive correlation with height (H) (r = 0.72, emphasizing the importance of vertical growth for overall coconut development. The findings underscore the significance of understanding how these environmental factors interact to influence coconut growth. The positive correlations between temperature, light intensity, and growth parameters highlight the need for optimal climate conditions in rooftop nurseries. Effective environmental management practices, such as shading to mitigate excessive light exposure and maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity levels, are essential for fostering healthy coconut growth.