What is surface runoff?
Surface runoff is rainwater that cannot enter again into the soil or basin and eventually flows directly into the river
A scenario of surface runoff in oil palm plantation
Surface runoff by rainfall on oil palm-cultivated land commonly occur in areas such as hilly plantations and higher rainfall area. It makes nutrients on the land's surface can be lost and carried away by water. Research by Goh et al (1999) also shows that 11% of Nitrogen, 3% of Phosphorus, 5% of Potassium, 6% of Magnesium, 5% of Calcium and 21 % of Boron applied can be lost in surface runoff.
Effect of Surface Runoff in oil palm plantation
Factor Influence the amount of surface runoff
- Type of Soil
- Type of Plant
- Type of Cover Crop
- Slope of Land
Effect of Surface Runoff
- Erosion
- Low infiltration rate
- Percolation
- Soil Nutrient Degradation
- Marginal Land
Methods to Reduce Surface Runoff
- Cultivating cover crops: To increase the absorption of water into the soil vertically
- Making terraces: Discontinuous the flow of water when surface runoff occurs
- Silt pit: To hold water when it rains
How PLANTSAFE can help to mitigate surface runoff
PLANTSAFE Controlled Release Fertilizer is an innovative technology product that packages fertilizer mixtures in a patented controlled-release membrane. It is designed to work together with the rain which activates the nutrient release and feeds the palms consistently. It will control the nutrients release of the fertilizer by releasing it in a small amount and ensures no fertilizer is easily washed away. Most Importantly, it is an eco-certified product and safe for our environment.