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Weather vagaries, pest infestations and lack of proper fertilisation impacting nut harvest
View(s):By Jayanie Madawala
Since October, the price of coconut nuts has been skyrocketing due to a market shortage.
“Higher-than-normal rainfall and temperature variations have significantly impacted the harvest,” stated Coconut Development Authority Chairman Shantha Ranathunga, adding that pest infestations and plant diseases have also contributed to the decline in production.
To mitigate the impact on exporters, the government is implementing short-term measures, including setting minimum auction prices and providing financial subsidies to farmers.
Currently, coconuts purchased from estates at Rs.90-100 are being sold in the market at Rs.120-130. “While we cannot fully meet local demand, we are striving to provide some level of relief to consumers,” Ranathunga said.
He expressed concern over the rapid spread of a disease affecting young coconut plants caused by the red beetle. However, he assured that measures are being taken to control its spread.
According to Coconut Development Authority data, the wholesale price for a large nut on December 19 was between Rs. 160-170, while small nuts ranged from Rs.130-140. Retail prices, however, were higher, ranging from Rs. 170-200 for large nuts and Rs.150-165 for small nuts.
Senior Professor Lal P. Vidanaarachchi from the Department of Export Agriculture at Sabaragamuwa University attributed the shortfall primarily to high temperatures experienced in recent months. “High temperatures negatively impact coconut pollination, leading to reduced yields,” he explained.
Professor Vidanaarachchi also highlighted a decline in the number of coconut plants cultivated annually in Sri Lanka. He emphasised the need to address the threat of white fly disease, a recently identified concern.
He suggested that the disease can be controlled through the application of pesticides or organic solutions like soap water and kohomba oil. He stressed the importance of proper fertilisation to increase yields, along with improved cultivation practices and the introduction of new coconut saplings to meet future demand.
Professor Vidanaarachchi emphasised the need for both short-term and long-term solutions to overcome these challenges.
I.Hettiarachchi, a retail seller, stated, “As of Saturday (21), we are purchasing coconuts between Rs. 160-170 from Kurunegala and selling them at Rs. 180. However, there is a significant shortage in the market, and we are unable to meet the demand.”
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