IntroductionI'm thrilled to be part of this contest, and I sincerely appreciate @disconnect for thoughtfully bringing this topic up at this point in time. What will I cultivate if given a large expanse of land?This is one of the questions I will not have to give a second thought to provide an answer to; the reason is I already have this as a vision. Now back to the question: if I'm opportune to be given a land, irrespective of the size, what I will plant is palm fruit.
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Why I chose the palm fruit tree? My reasons are multidimensional, judging from its unique importance to humanity, animals, and nature. The durability also makes me very attracted to it. Briefly, the palm fruit tree belongs to the family of Arecaceae; it has the following features: a slender trunk, feathery leaves, and a crown. It is one of the most diverse and widespread species of plant and is found in temperature regions.Firstly, the palm fruit tree's diversity inspired me most. It provides different products ranging from the fruit to the frond, oil used for different dishes, and also the firewood that is gotten from this same plant. Another thing that resonated with me is its ability to adapt to the environment, being able to thrive in the environment irrespective of the challenges. Beyond its practical usefulness, it's also a symbolic representation in some societies.
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The fruit symbolizes prosperity and good fortune, and the palm tree as a whole represents peace, resilience, and durability. Ecologically, the palm fruit tree plays a major role in maintaining and also sustaining the ecosystems. Its fibrous root helps in preventing soil erosion and also supports biodiversity. It is also a key source of food for diverse animals and a provider of shelter. Finally, I chose the palm fruit tree because of its ability to sustain growth and development. Its potential to reproduce a quite number of times really impressed me too. Many farmers like indulging in palm fruit tree plantations because of their economical value.
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How long does it take a palm fruit tree to mature and harvest?The palm fruit tree's maturity depends on various factors like the species, soil quality, atmospheric conditions, and farming practice. The germination of palm fruit trees is within 2 to 3 months. The seedling stage is within 1 to 2 years. The maturity stage is within 3 to 5 years, and the first harvest is gotten after 4 to 5 years of germination.Palm tree pestsThere are many diseases of palm fruit trees; I will mention but a few:
- Rhinoceros beetle
- Palm weevil
- Spider mitesWays of controlling the pests:There are cultural, biological, and chemical ways of controlling palm fruit pests.
- Use of insecticides
- Introduction of useful insects to prey on the pest
- Removal of weeds and debris around the palm tree, etc
I am delighted to invite @hahdie @us-andrew @emmy01 to join in this contest.
#lhorgic-nature1 #nigeria #steemexclusive
https://steemit.com/hive-115654/@eunicelattice/if-you-were-given-a-free-land-what-would-you-cultivate
TEAM 4
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