Productivity     The coconut palm starts fruiting 6 to 10 years after the seed germinates and reaches full production at 15 to 20 years of age. It continues to fruit until it is about 80 years old with an annual production of 50 to 200 fruits per tree. The fruits require about a year to develop and are generally produced regularly throughout the year.

Propagation     Propagation is entirely from seed. Large, well-matured nuts are collected from selected trees placed on their sides and buried to about one-half their thickness. They may be planted in closely spaced rows in well-drained semi-shaded seedbeds or they may be planted directly into pots. Upon germination, the shoot and root emerge through one of the three "eyes". Young palms, about 6 months old, can be transplanted directly into the field or be grown in pots in the nursery for a few more years.

Climate and Soils    The coconut palm is typically found along tropical, sandy shorelines since it can tolerate brackish soils and salt spray. However, salt is not required for the growth of healthy plants and they can be successfully grown well inland. Coconut palms grow well in a wide range of soil types, provided they are well drained, and a wide pH range, from 5.0 to 8.0. Successful growth requires a minimum average temperature of 72°F and an annual rainfall of 40 to 60 inches or more, fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. The trees may be injured by cold when the temperature falls below 32°F (0°C). They require full sunlight and are tolerant to wind and flooding. Coconut palms may be planted at any time of the year but the warm, rainy summer months are best.