Production

Though it can be grown up to 900mtrs from mean sea level (MSL), lower altitudes are preferable. Nuts produced at higher altitudes are found to be of inferior quality while compared to those grown in lower altitudes. Arecanut palms are grown in different soils such as laterite, red and sandy loam, alluvial and deltaic. The soil should be well-drained and capable of retaining optimum moisture. The crops which could be cultivated without affecting the Arecanut yielding are banana, betelvine, cocoa, ginger and pepper.

Arecanut palms start yielding from the 6th year. A stabilised yield is obtained after 10 years and is maintained till about 40th year. The yield declines thereafter and becomes uneconomical by the 60th year.