Greenfeed Bulletin Issue 10

BULLETINGREENFEED

ISSUE 10, MARCH 2014

10YEARSFIELD REPORT FOR GREENFEEDPERTAINING TO FOLIAR ANALYSIS

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25 Greenfeed Reviews :Innovation Community Experiencein World Innovation Forum - KualaLumpur (WIF-KL)

10 Years field report for GreenfeedSlow Release Fertilizer : Pertaining to Foliar Analysis

Isu 1, Ogos 2010Isu 2, Disember 2010Issue 3, June 2011

Issue 4, December 2011Issue 5, March 2012Issue 6, June 2012

Issue 7, September 2012Issue 8, March 2013Issue 9, June 2013

BULLETINGREENFEED



BULLETINGREENFEED



Greenfeed BulletinIssue 10, March 2014

Editor-in-chief Muhammad Asyraf Abdul Aziz Technical Research and Development

Editor Shahirulikram Shaharuddin Strategy and Marketing

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be used or reproduced in any form or by any means, including but not limited to electronic or mechanical photocopying, recording or by any information storage or retrieval system or otherwise, without prior agreement and written permission from the publisher.

DisclaimerThe view or options contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the policy and stand point of Greenfeed Group and Greenfeed Group will not liable or responsible towards any losses experienced by any parties on performance or non-performance based on information in this publication.

SUMMARYGreenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer is categorized as modern high efficient fertilizer that incorporates technological advancement into the fundamentals of agriculture. This novelty fertilizer only requires twice application annually and also provide recommendations that is significantly lower with ratio up to 1:10 to current commercial practice that also requires fertilizing rounds up to 7 times per year. The objective of this paper is to provide a comparative platform based on the monitoring study carried out within an oil palm plantation located in the proximate to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), central region of the Malaysia Peninsular. The analysis included within this study is from the foliar performance analysis aspect of the oil palms particularly Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), and Boron (B). Greenfeed Blocks showed competitive results throughout the comparisons and performed slightly better as compared to its counterparts. This was achieved despite having to experience external shifting such as water logging, climate change, heavy development progress, less number of palm stand per hectare, and so forth; Greenfeed Blocks performed better with a slightly better statistical readings over a decade. This is the third series of the review study covering the 10 years monitoring effort within the plantation.

1.0 INTRODUCTIONFertilizer is considered to be one of the most vital components in commercial agriculture planting, such as oil palms. In the present world, the roles and contribution of the palm oil based products are far from negligence. Palm oil based ingredients can be found on every product utilized by a person on daily basis and such understanding establishes the importance of oil palm on fundamental basis. With the ever increasing global human population and the fundamental role that palm oil based product has to offer, the development of this industry is definitely important to ensure sustenance. Furthermore, functions and roles for every components related to the oil palm industry must be revised and improved in order to meet with the commercial demands of oil palm. One of the mentioned sector is fertilizer as this component determines the practice effectiveness and the efficiency within an oil palm’s commercial planting. There are currently a wide range of fertilizers made available for commercial planting practice such as oil palm and rubber plantation. Thus, it is vital to select the most suitable types of fertilizer after weighing the pros and cons poised by each variety of fertilizers. With the

ever-increasing costs in the agricultural industry, it is important for the management to find the best solution to cater the impending matter that definitely affects the wellbeing as well as the practicality within a commercial oil palm plantation. Thus, with such circumstances being put in mind, Greenfeed Groups have been engaging in researches for over 16 years in producing a fertilizing solution that requires less labor, easy to apply, less application frequency, reduced recommendations, reduced overall costs, improved yield, and also environmental friendly; through Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer.

1.1 Fertilizer’s Role and FunctionForm of fertilizers may vary according to the type of crops as well as the agronomy disciplines practiced. For instance, in Malaysia particularly, the oil palm industry is considered to be one of the vital economic backbones with current planting area affluently exceeding the 5 million hectare mark. Furthermore with such vast market capacity, fertilizer is accounted for approximately one-third of the total up keeping cost for a commercial oil palm plantation. This is based only on the fertilizer’s cost alone and not inclusive the in-shifting costs relating to fertilizer such as transportation, warehouse, labor, and so forth. Hence, resulting in market share estimated to be exceeding RM10 billion. Therefore, without proper understanding on the function and purpose of fertilizer; financial inefficiency will definitely be a significant issue affecting the growth of this highly potential industry.

The purpose of a fertilizer is to provide additional or external source of nutrients to facilitate the plants’ growth and yielding as to retain within the optimum level, apart from attaining optimal physiological response over a significant period of time. Any natural or manufactured material that contains at least 5% of one or more of the three primary nutrients - nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), or potassium (K) can be considered fertilizer. There are several sources of plant nutrient; the two most important sources are organic manure and mineral based fertilizers. In most parts of the world, the balance to be supplied by mineral fertilizers is substantial. Fertilizer production entails gathering raw materials from nature; treating them in order to purify them or increase their concentration; converting them into plant-available forms; and often combining them into products that contain more than one nutrient (IFA, 2013).

GREENFEED BULLETIN ISSUE 10, 20143

REVIEW STUDY: GREENFEED® SLOW RELEASE FERTILIZER FOLIAR ANALYSIS PERFORMANCE WITHIN M OIL PALM PLANTATION WITHIN 10 YEARS MONITORING

STUDY (2003 – 2012)Greenfeed Groups

GREENFEED BULLETIN ISSUE 10, 2014 4

1.2 Review Research ObjectiveThe objective of this paper is to provide a review study based on a comprehensive 10 years monitoring records within a selected oil palm plantation located within the proximate of KLIA located in the central region of Malaysia Peninsular. This review paper study will be carried out in a series covering the yield performance comparisons, physiological analysis, physical vegetative growth measurement analysis, and foliar analysis study. Within this third review series, the selected parameter comparison is the nutrient critical content analyzed to the carried out Foliar Analysis on selected nutrient groups, which were Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), and Boron (B). The findings for each analysis will be discussed separately within this review.

1.3 Oil Palm Plantation Monitoring Site BackgroundThe topography of the commercial trial areas was mostly flat and slightly undulating, the soil characteristics indicated mineral and peat profile. Greenfeed Slow Release Fertilizer block was allocated in the area where soil profiles were copiously peat in nature ranging from shallow to moderate peat. As of 2012, the planting age of oil palms involved within this study were mostly 10 Years After Planting (YAP) and 12 Years After Planting (YAP). This is a commercial trial effort carry out by Greenfeed Groups and the said plantation have been using Greenfeed Slow Release Fertilizer from the beginning of field planting for each respective blocks. The details for each block can be referred to as follows.

2.0 MATERIAL AND METHODSThis review paper functions was to provide a comparative platform based on a 10 years monitoring study on oil palms crops that applied with Greenfeed Slow Release fertilizer within a plantation located within the central region of the Malaysia Peninsular. This review paper will discuss one comparative aspect from a 10 year study within the specified area and provide with constructive comparisons between oil palms applied with Greenfeed Slow Release Fertilizer and the Commercial Control Fertilizer. The monitoring period was from the year 2003 until 2012 and is part of the monitoring and effort committed by Greenfeed Groups.

For comparison purposes, the counterparts selected for Block Greenfeed 00 and Block Control 00 as for Block Greenfeed 02 comparison Block Control 01A and Block Control 01B. The total area size involved for this comparison was 1134.21ha for Greenfeed Slow Release Fertilizer (Greenfeed 00 and Greenfeed 02) and 773.52ha for Commercial Control Fertilizer (Control 00, Control 01A, and Control 01B). During this monitoring period, the types of Greenfeed Slow Release Fertilizer involved were the ‘Blue Bag’ Slow Release Fertilizer (SRF) applies since immature stage, ‘Red Bag’ Slow Release Fertilizer (MTF) applied since mature stage, and finally the ‘Brown Bag’ Slow Release Fertilizer (HMTF) applied when plant develop into prime mature stage. Each of these slow release fertilizer formulated for a specified planting group age in order to fulfill the balanced diet required by the plants. Each of these fertilizer descriptions can be referred to as follows.

The sampling method was carried out according the oil palms planting age relative to the frond rank. For early transplanting oil palms, the frond selection involved was frond rank 3, whereas for immature oil palms, the frond rank selection involved was frond rank 9; and for mature oil palms, the frond sampling selected was from frond rank 17. Such selection was carried out accordingly in order to provide the most accurate representative analysis within this study.

Table 1: Greenfeed Blocks within the trial commercial area

Fertilizer Age Topography

/ Soil Palm Stand / ha Area (ha) Total

Palms

Greenfeed 12 YAP

Flat to low lying /

Moderate peat

172 613.00 105,436

Greenfeed 10 YAP

Flat / Shallow to moderate

peat

140 521.21 72,969

TOTAL 1134.21 178,405 *planting age as of 31st December 2012

(a) SRF – 12:16:4:2 + TE (b) MTF – 13:10:15:2 + TE (c) HMTF – 13:10:22:2 + TE

Figure 1: Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer product descriptions (a) SRF; (b) MTF; (c) HMTF.


This review paper will present and discuss the plants critical nutrient content that is relative to the foliar analysis carried out on the samples throughout the study period. The nutrients involved are Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), and Boron (B). Through the analysis carried out, the effectiveness of the novel fertilizer application method of Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer was contrasted to the commercial fertilizing methodology carried out within the designated monitoring plantation. The results and presentations can be referred to as follows.

3.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONSWithin this section, the foliar critical nutrient analysis data involving Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), and Boron (B) will be presented based on the collective data obtained during this 10 years monitoring period. A comparison thereon will be made accordingly to the fertilizer application dosage as recommended by Greenfeed Groups. Block GREENFEED 02 in general has a slightly higher Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer recommendations as compared to block GREENFEED 00 by 37.14% and further amendments were made based on the conditions as well as requirements observed within the particular block GREENFEED 02. The fertilizer dosage and type recommendations throughout the period of 10 years can be referred to Table 2 below.

Since this is a commercial trial plot, the site preparation was carried out according to the feasibility of the plantations’ management with guidance from the technical representatives. Every samples obtained from each block were randomly selected from each plot within the specified blocks. For instance, Block Greenfeed 00 was consisted of 11 plots and each oil palm samples were selected in replicates from each of the 11 plots within the block. Similar principle was applied for other involving blocks. This can referred to Figure 2 below.

PLOT 1 PLOT 2

Sample

Replicates

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 3

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 4

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 5

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 6

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 7

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 8

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 9

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 1 PLOT 2

Sample

Replicates

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 3

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 4

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 5

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 6

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 7

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 8

Sample

Replicates

PLOT 9

Sample

Replicates

*Illustration is for guidelines and does not represent actual sampling size

Greenfeed Block Control Block

Figure 2: Random sampling structure and block guidelines

BLOCK 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

GREENFEED 00

30 nuggets

30 nuggets

36 nuggets

42 nuggets

47 nuggets

53 nuggets

56 nuggets

56 nuggets

60 nuggets

66 nuggets

PRODUCT MTF HMTF GREENFEED

02 30

nuggets 30

nuggets 36

nuggets 48

nuggets 45

nuggets 53

nuggets 56

nuggets 56

nuggets 60

nuggets 66

nuggets PRODUCT SRF MTF HMTF

Table 2: Annual recommendation for Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment by block

*SRF - Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer SRF (12:16:4:2+TE)**MTF - Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer MTF (13:10:15:2+TE)***HMTF - Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer HMTF (13:10:22:2+TE)


The topographical factor within this block was mostly flat with low-lying areas. Hence, during the early establishment of this area, waterlogging is an issue and thus causing adverse effect on the fertilizer’s efficiency in supplying nutrients to the oil palms. Therefore, the foliar analyses were selected as part of the compulsory monitoring effort in assessing the effectiveness of Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer for oil palm usage throughout the 10 years study. Foliar nutrient analysis study evaluates the nutrient composition of the palms through foliar samples collected from the palms itselves. It is vital to collect the foliar samples from the appropriate frond rank, as it was understood that frond 17 provides best representative readings for mature oil palms in term of nutrient content analysis. Each of the findings and observations were presented and discussed specifically within the later section.

3.01 NITROGEN (N) NUTRIENT CONTENTNitrogen (N) nutrient content analysis is essential as this nutrient plays important role in determining the wellbeing of the overall palms condition. Nitrogen (N) is a part of all living cells and is a necessary part of all proteins, enzymes and metabolic processes involved in the synthesis and transfer of energy. Nitrogen (N) is also part of the chlorophyll molecular structure and this nutrient assists plants with rapid growth, increasing fruit production, and improving the quality of leaf and forage crops. Nitrogen often comes from fertilizer application and from the air (legumes get their N from the atmosphere, water or rainfall contributes very little nitrogen). This nutrient is grouped as part of the primary macronutrients required by plants. Hence, explaining the vital function of such nutrient for oil palms overall growth.

Figure 3: Recorded Nitrogen (N) critical nutrient from Block GREENFEED 00 and Block CONTROL 00 from the year 2003 until 2012.

Referring to Figure 3 above, it was observed that the Nitrogen (N) nutrient status for all of the studied palms were well within optimum range as referred to the Oil Palm Critical Nutrient Standards. The highest recorded Nitrogen (N) nutrient status was from block GF00, which receives Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment with reading of 2.61% on dry matter (year 2004 and year 2012); and the lowest recorded reading was from block CF00 for Control Fertilizer treatment with reading of 2.36% on dry matter during year 2005 and 2007. The optimum Nitrogen (N) nutrient threshold for mature oil palm such as this was 2.40% on dry matter. From the nutrient statuses obtained, such optimum reading indicates that the oil palms within the studied are were able to carry out vital maintenance processes in oil palm trees especially on their function to regulate vital chemical reactions, needed in stem and leaf growth and induces rapid green growth. The comparisons for the remaining included area can be referred to as follows.


Referring to Figure 3 above, it was observed that the Nitrogen (N) nutrient status for all of the studied palms were well within optimum range as referred to the Oil Palm Critical Nutrient Standards. The highest recorded Nitrogen (N) nutrient status was from block GF00, which receives Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment with reading of 2.61% on dry matter (year 2004 and year 2012); and the lowest recorded reading was from block CF00 for Control Fertilizer treatment with reading of 2.36% on dry matter during year 2005 and 2007. The optimum Nitrogen (N) nutrient threshold for mature oil palm such as this was 2.40% on dry matter. From the nutrient statuses obtained, such optimum reading indicates that the oil palms within the studied are were able to carry out vital maintenance processes in oil palm trees especially on their function to regulate vital chemical reactions, needed in stem and leaf growth and induces rapid green growth. The comparisons for the remaining included area can be referred to as follows.

By referring to Figure 4 above, the recorded readings indicated a much more less uniform pattern. Several results were observed to be below optimum threshold especially for block CF01B that showed 8 results below the mentioned threshold. The lowest recorded reading was at 2.23% on Dry Matter, observed from Block CF01B with Control Fertilizer treatment. The highest recorded reading was at 2.61% on Dry Matter from both Block GF02 (Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment) and Block CF01A (Control Fertilizer treatment). From the comparisons made, the recorded average Nitrogen (N) content was for both comparing blocks were fluctuating within the optimum threshold. However, for palms with slightly lower Nitrogen (N) nutrient content were observed to not emit distinct nutrient deficiency and was understood to be temporal due to influx in growth requirements. Over the course of observation, the foliage presentation of the oil palms within the corresponding Control blocks showed a slightly light green colour in overall.

3.02 PHOSPHORUS (P) NUTRIENT CONTENTThis nutrient analysis is important the Phosphorus (P) is grouped as primary nutrient under macronutrient that is required by plants for optimal growth. Slight deficiency of Phosphorus (P) could be observed to slower growth rate and some distortion of leaf habit. Phosphorus (P) nutrient is required for palms overall growth progress and during oil palm early establishment, such requirement can be observed through the root growth as well as the vegetative growth of the palms. The results for the comparing blocks can be referred to as follows.

Figure 4: Recorded Nitrogen (N) critical nutrient from Block GREENFEED 02, Block CONTROL 01A, and Block CONTROL 01B from the year 2003 until 2012.


Referring to Figure 5 above, it was observed that the Phosphorus (P) nutrient status for most of the studied palms were well within optimum threshold with exclusion to Block CF00 year 2006 (reading at 0.143% on Dry Matter); as referred to the Oil Palm Critical Nutrient Standards. The highest recorded Phosphorus (P) nutrient status was from block GF00, which receives Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment with reading of 0.189% on dry matter (year 2005); and the lowest recorded reading was from block CF00 for Control Fertilizer treatment with reading of 0.143% on dry matter during year 2006. The optimum Phosphorus (P) nutrient threshold for mature oil palm such as this was 0.150% on dry matter. The optimum level for Phosphorus (P) indicates that the plant growth and functions were not disrupted as Phosphorus (P) is involved much as energy functioning in form of Adenosine-Di-Phosphate to Adenosine-Tri-Phosphate. Besides that’s, Phosphorus (P) are also used in root formation, flowering, fruiting and ripening. The comparisons for the remaining blocks for Phosphorus (P) critical nutrient level can be referred to as follows.

Figure 5: Recorded Phosphorus (P) critical nutrient from Block GREENFEED 00 and Block CONTROL 00 from the year 2003 until 2012.

Figure 6: Recorded Phosphorus (P) critical nutrient from Block GREENFEED 02, Block CONTROL 01A, and Block CONTROL 01B from the year 2003 until 2012.


By referring to Figure 6 above, few results were observed to be below optimum threshold, which is at 0.150% on Dry Matter. The lowest recorded Phosphorus (P) critical nutrient reading was at 0.146% on Dry Matter, observed from Block CF01A with Control Fertilizer treatment. The highest recorded reading was at 0.178% on Dry Matter from Block GF02 that receives Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment. Phosphorus (P) is vital in ensuring the physical growth of the palms can be carried out properly without any hindering scenario. Severe deficiency of Phosphorus (P) could rarely occur to the palms within Malaysia. This is because of the nutrient is made available within the soil naturally. However, additional support of the nutrient is still required due to the fact that Phosphorus (P) is easily bound to the soil particle. Deficiency of Phosphorus (P) will lead to stunted growth with short fronds, and the palms will have a pronounced pyramidal shape over the years. However, this was not the case as observed throughout the study within the specified area.

3.03 POTASSIUM (K) NUTRIENT CONTENTPotassium (K) nutrient level was measured from the samples because it is part of the major nutrients required by the palms. Furthermore, the nutrient is also essential for the palms growth. It is also important for proper stomata functions within the oil palm leaves. Such nutrient deficiency can be observed on the palms as confluent orange spotting, diffused mid-crown yellowing, and white stripes. The results can be referred to as follows.

Referring to Figure 7 above, it was observed that the Potassium (K) nutrient status for all of the studied palms were well within optimum range as referred to the Oil Palm Critical Nutrient Standards. The highest recorded Potassium (K) nutrient status was from block GF00, which receives Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment with reading of 1.27% on dry matter (year 2004); and the lowest recorded reading was from block CF00 for Control Fertilizer treatment with reading at 0.95% on Dry Matter during year 2012.

For oil palms within the tropical region, a deficiency for Potassium (K) is a common issue due to various external factors such as the weather and the soil properties. In this situation, the soil type in this area is mostly peat. This soil has nutrient deficiencies especially Potassium (K) and Magnesium (Mg). Potassium (K) is necessary on peats, so the application of enough Potassium (K) contain is very important for the formation of flower, fruit, and leaves.

Figure 7: Recorded Potassium (K) critical nutrient from Block GREENFEED 00 and Block CONTROL 00 from the year 2003 until 2012.


Figure 8: Recorded Potassium (K) critical nutrient from Block GREENFEED 02, Block CONTROL 01A, and Block CONTROL 01B from the year 2003 until 2012.

Figure 8 above, indicated few results to be below optimum threshold, which is at 1.00% on Dry Matter. The lowest recorded Potassium (K) critical nutrient reading was at 0.81% on Dry Matter, observed from Block CF01B with Control Fertilizer treatment. The highest recorded reading was at 1.26% on Dry Matter from Block GF02 that receives Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment (for year 2006 and year 2008). This nutrient functions to assist with the palms growth as well playing a regulatory role in stomata openings and hence, with proper Potassium (K) nutrient supply being carried out, the palms will be able to withstand significant drought season much better. Furthermore, this nutrient also functions in the transportation of assimilates within the plants and ensuring overall processes within the plant is being carried out accordingly.

3.04 CALCIUM (Ca) NUTRIENT CONTENT Calcium (Ca) is a structural component of pectates found in the middle lamella of cell walls. Essential component for cell extension and division, membrane stabilization, maintenance of cation and anion balance in cells, and osmoregulation. This nutrient also involved as a messenger in the transfer of environmental signals (caused by high or low temperatures, or by the physical impact of rain and wind). The critical nutrient level can be referred to as follows.

Figure 9: Recorded Calcium (Ca) critical nutrient from Block GREENFEED 00 and Block CONTROL 00 from the year 2003 until 2012.

Referring to Figure 9 above, it was observed that the Calcium (Ca) nutrient status for all of the studied palms fluctuated within the optimum threshold as referred to the Oil Palm Critical Nutrient Standards. The highest recorded Calcium (Ca) nutrient status was from Block GF00, which receives Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment with reading at 0.69% on dry matter (year 2006); and the lowest recorded reading was from Block CF00 for Control Fertilizer treatment with reading at 0.42% on Dry Matter during year 2008. Symptoms of such deficiency are not commonly observed within plantation in Malaysia. Oil palm with Calcium (Ca) nutrient deficiency will emit malformed leaves and terminal necrosis, stunted and abnormally short as well as narrow leaves.


Figure 10: Recorded Calcium (Ca) critical nutrient from Block GREENFEED 02, Block CONTROL 01A, and Block CONTROL 01B from the year 2003 until 2012


Figure 10 above, indicated few results to be below optimum threshold, which is at 0.50% on Dry Matter. The lowest recorded Calcium (Ca) critical nutrient reading was at 0.43% on Dry Matter, observed from Block CF01B with Control Fertilizer treatment. The highest recorded reading was at 0.62% on Dry Matter from Block GF02 that receives Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment (for year 2011). ). Even though the possibilities for such occurrence is relatively rare, the deficiency symptoms might be caused by the soil within the area are mostly sandy profile with acute Calcium (Ca) resources made available naturally. Also, by nature, this nutrient is not mobile within the phloem. Hence, the presence of such readings recorded within Figure 10 could be having a temporary behavior as it was observed to improved in the later years.

3.05 MAGNESIUM (Mg) NUTRIENT CONTENT Magnesium (Mg) is part of the secondary nutrient that is required by the oil palms and is grouped as macronutrients. Magnesium is the central constituent in chlorophyll and therefore essential for efficient photosynthesis. The nutrient is also important in phosphate metabolism, plant respiration, and the activation of enzymes. Deficiency in Magnesium (Mg) would lead to the absence of chlorosis on sections of pinnae shaded from the sunlight. The results for the critical nutrient level can be referred to as follows.

Figure 11: Recorded Magnesium (Mg) critical nutrient from Block GREENFEED 00 and Block CONTROL 00 from the year 2003 until 2012.

Referring to Figure 11 above, it was observed that the Magnesium (Mg) nutrient status for all of the studied palms were well within the optimum threshold as referred to the Oil Palm Critical Nutrient Standards. The highest recorded Magnesium (Mg) nutrient status was from Block GF00, which receives Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment with reading at 0.44% on dry matter (year 2012); and the lowest recorded reading was from Block CF00 for Control Fertilizer treatment with reading at 0.33% on Dry Matter during year 2006. Magnesium (Mg) is involved in the synthesis of chlorophyll, phosphate metabolisms, enzyme activation, and plant respiration. Hence, it is vital to carry out Magnesium (Mg) critical nutrient analysis on the samples in order to completely provide the overall condition of the palms within the studied area over the study period.


Figure 12 above, indicated few results to be well within the optimum threshold, which is at 0.25% on Dry Matter as referred to the Oil Palm Critical Nutrient Analysis Standard. The lowest recorded Magnesium (Mg) critical nutrient reading was at 0.32% on Dry Matter, observed from Block CF01B with Control Fertilizer treatment. The highest recorded reading was at 0.44% on Dry Matter from Block GF02 that receives Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment (for year 2007 and 2012). Magnesium (Mg) deficient pinnae of older palm fronds are chlorotic, and the symptoms are commonly described as orange frond. The first symptoms appear on older, basal fronds because Magnesium (Mg) is mobile and translocated from older to younger tissues in Magnesium (Mg) deficient palms. The occurrence of chlorosis on pinnae or frond parts exposed to the sunlight may be explained by an accumulation of photosynthates such as starch in the leaf. Such occurrence is a common sight within the studied blocks and the percentage of such observation was not significant with temporal characteristics.

3.05 BORON (B) NUTRIENT CONTENT Boron (B) is a part of the non-metal micronutrients required by the palms. This nutrient is also essential for root elongation, carbohydrates, and cell wall formation. It is also involved in the protein synthesis as well as the regulation of the nucleic acid synthesis within the palms. Thus, explaining the crooked leaves symptoms or also known as the hook leafs. The results for this micronutrient can be referred to as follows.

Figure 12: Recorded Magnesium (Mg) critical nutrient from Block GREENFEED 02, Block CONTROL 01A, and Block CONTROL 01B from the year 2003 until 2012


Figure 13: Recorded Boron (B) critical nutrient from Block GREENFEED 00 and Block CONTROL 00 from the year 2003 until 2012.

Referring to Figure 13 above, it was observed that the Boron (B) nutrient status for all of the studied palms were well within the optimum threshold as referred to the Oil Palm Critical Nutrient Standards. The highest recorded Boron (B) nutrient status was from Block GF00, which receives Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment with reading at 33 parts per million (ppm) for year 2012; and the lowest recorded reading was from Block CF00 for Control Fertilizer treatment with reading at 15 parts per million (ppm) during year 2003. This nutrient is grouped as part of non-metal micronutrient that is required by plants. However, incidents of Boron (B) nutrient deficiency symptoms can be observed quite often on palms in Malaysia and hence, this nutrient analysis was necessary for the foliar samples obtained from the plantation.

Figure 14: Recorded Boron (B) critical nutrient from Block GREENFEED 02, Block CONTROL 01A, and Block CONTROL 01B from the year 2003 until 2012


Figure 14 above, indicated few results to be well within the optimum threshold, which is at 8.0 Parts per Million (ppm). The lowest recorded Boron (B) critical nutrient reading was at 17.0 Parts per Million (ppm), observed from Block CF01A with Control Fertilizer treatment. The highest recorded reading was at 37.0 Parts per Million (ppm) from Block CF01A that Control Fertilizer treatment during the year 2012. Meristematic growth is impaired in Boron (B) deficient palms, leading to retarded growth of root tips and other apical tissues. Thus, Boron (B) deficiency symptoms involve abnor-malities in leaf development such as ‘crinkle leaf’, ‘hook leaf’, ‘little leaf’, ‘fishbone leaf’, ‘stump leaf’, and ‘blind leaf’. Boron (B) deficient leaves are also brittle and dark green. The earliest symptom of Boron (B) deficiency is the shortening of younger leaves, often with narrow pinnae, and this gives palms a characteristic ‘flat top’ appearance.

The objective of this review paper is to provide constructive comparisons covering the performance of Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer within the specified oil palm plantation located center west of the Malaysia Peninsular. Within this third installment of the 10 years review paper, the study were carried out focusing on the foliar critical nutrient level analy-sis specifically involving Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), and Boron (B). This analysis evaluates the critical nutrient level as every nutrient held a specific function within plants and is a correla-tion to the previous physiological analyses and the oil palm yielding performances within the studied area. This is part of the continuous effort by Greenfeed Groups in ensuring the effectiveness of Greenfeed Slow Release Fertilizer can be achieved and attained sustainably.

Based on the findings through 10 years study period within the plantation area for the first group age (12 YAP), the recorded average for Nitrogen (N) critical nutrient level for Block GF00 was 2.52% on Dry Matter, which resides well within the optimum threshold as previously stated. As for Block CF00, the average recorded critical nutrient content was slightly lower at 2.44% on Dry Matter, which observably slightly lower by 3.17% when compared to its counterpart. Both blocks recorded readings within optimum threshold and specifically Greenfeed Block (GF00) recorded slightly better readings as compared to the Control Block (CF00); with 90% of the readings were higher than the mentioned Control Block CF00 during this 10 years monitoring effort.

For the second group age (10 YAP – 11 YAP), of the oil palms within Block GF02 indicated a slightly higher average reading at 2.50% on Dry Matter as the remaining counterpart Block CF01A and CF01B recorded average reading at 2.46%on Dry Matter and 2.35% on Dry Matter respectively. These readings

were comparatively lower by 1.60% and 6.00% respectively as compared with Greenfeed Block GF02. Substantially, there were no significant deficiency symptoms observed through the monitoring period except for slight dry seasons observed during the year 2004/2005 periods.

As for Phosphorus (P), the average critical nutrient level for Block GF00 was slightly higher at 0.174% on Dry Matter as compared to Block CF00 with reading at 0.158% on Dry Matter, indicating a span difference of 10.12% in between. Generally, the pattern indicated that most of the readings were well within optimum threshold except for Block CF00 during the year 2006 at 6 Years After Planting (YAP). However, the condition was corrected the year after when the critical nutrient level resided within the optimum threshold at 0.161% on Dry Matter. For Block GF02, the recorded average for Phosphorus (P) critical nutrient level was at 0.168% on Dry Matter, which was slightly higher as compared to Control Blocks CF01A and CF01B at 0.159% on Dry Matter and 0.157% on Dry Matter respectively.

This indicated the span differences of 5.66% and 7.01% respectively with the recorded average in Block GF02. Such occurrence within oil palm plantation should be common due to the soil condition and the nutrient behavior within the soil. Throughout the 10-year study period, none of the significant deficiency symptoms observed on the palms within the area.

In term of Potassium (K) critical nutrient level, the average reading recorded from Block GF00 was at 1.19% on Dry Matter, which is lightly higher by 6.25% when compared to the Control Block CF00 with reading at 1.12% on Dry Matter. Through out the study period span, the recorded readings were observed to reside within the optimum threshold for both blocks and no significant nutrient deficiency symptoms were observed during the monitoring period. Similar results was observed for Greenfeed Block GF02, which recorded average Critical Nutrient level at 1.15% on Dry Matter.

This reading was slightly higher as compared to Control Block CF01A and Block CF01B with average recorded readings at 1.06% on Dry Matter and 1.04% on Dry Matter. Ensuing percentage differences of 7.82% and 9.57% respec-tively. Through the comparisons made on the mentioned primary macronutrient Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K); study blocks applied with Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer recorded a slightly better performance as compared to the Control Blocks within the study area. This further signifies the efficiency and the effectiveness of Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer for commercial oil palm plantation practice.


Discussing in term of Calcium (Ca) Critical Nutrient level performances, Block GF00 recorded an average reading of 0.56% on Dry Matter and this was relatively higher as compared to Block CF00, which recorded the average reading of 0.50% on Dry Matter. This indicated a difference of 12.00% between the mentioned comparing counterparts. For Greenfeed Block GF02 on the other hand, the recorded average Calcium (Ca) Critical Nutrient level was 0.59% on Dry Matter and the counterpart Block CF01A and CF01B both recorded the average reading of 0.53% on Dry Matter indicating a percentage difference of 8.93%. However, the readings observed during the 10 Year monitoring system was well within the optimum threshold indicating no significant nutrient deficiency symptoms observed on the oil palms within the study area.

For Magnesium (Mg) Critical Nutrient level content, the recorded average reading during the 10-Year study for Greenfeed Block GF00 was at 0.39% on Dry Matter and for Control Block CF00, the recorded average reading was 0.37% on Dry Matter (difference in percentage of 5.13%). As for Greenfeed Block GF02, the recorded average Magnesium (Mg) Critical Nutrient level was at 0.41% on Dry matter and as for Control Block CF01A and CF01B, the recorded average Magnesium (Mg) Critical Nutrient level were 0.39% on Dry Matter and 0.37% on Dry Matter respectively; indicating percentage span differences of 4.88% and 9.76% respectively. Magnesium (Mg) is known to be a major constituent in Chlorophyll molecular structure and sight nutrient deficiency for this nutrient is common in oil palm plantations in Malaysia. During the study, such nutrient deficiency did not prominently occur within the study area and with continued monitoring, the results indicated that such symptoms were temporal to the environ-ment shift within the plantation.

Boron (B) Critical Nutrient level analysis was also included within the study and the average Critical Nutrient level reading as recorded by Greenfeed Block GF00 was 22.4 Parts per Million (ppm). This was slightly higher as compared to the Control Block CF00 with average reading recorded at 19.62 Parts per Million (ppm) resulting in percentage span difference of 12.41%. Whereas for Greenfeed Block GF02, the recorded average Boron (B) Critical Nutrient level was 26.71 Parts per Million (ppm), which was slightly higher when compared with Control Block CF01A and CF01B with readings of 24.44 Parts per Million (ppm) and 23.50 Parts per Million (ppm) respectively. The observed percentage differences when compared with the counterpart blocks were 8.49% for Block CF01A and 12.02% for Block CF01B.

Through this 10 year monitoring study, the observed foliar nutrient analysis, focusing on Critical Nutrient Level analysis managed to attain readings within the optimum threshold, apart from having competitive results with its Control Block counterparts. The samples were collected during the periodical monitoring visits, prepared, and delivered to the external agricultural laboratory analysis for evaluation. As mentioned within the previous review series, during the last three years of monitoring, slight shift in the environment within the trial areas for development purposes occurred. This is expected to pose an effect to the oil palms within the plantation and several precautious steps must be taken in order to minimize such unfavorable effect. . The effectiveness of Green-feed Slow Release Fertilizer has been monitored and proven throughout this 10 years monitoring period and such monitoring will be further continued till end of the 25 Years After Planting (YAP) commercial planting cycle.

4.0 CONCLUSIONThis review study holds the objective to provide a comparative study between differing oil palms fertilizer treatments involving Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer and Control Commercial Fertilizer treatment; within the selected oil palm plantation located proximate to KLIA and within the central region of the Peninsular Malaysia over a period of 10 years. This review study will present the effectiveness and the efficiency of the Greenfeed Slow Release Fertilizer for commercial oil palm plantation usage. For this series of review study, the comparative parameter selected was the oil palms’ Foliar Nutrient Analysis pertaining to Critical Nutrient Level involving specified nutrients which were Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), and Boron (B). Each nutrient were discussed and presented according to the individual nutrient content and oil palm planting age within the commercial trial area.

In overall, the oil palms receiving Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer treatment was observed to provide competitive readings as compared to the oil palms receiving Commercial Fertilizer treatment. In term of Primary Macronutrients that are Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K); Greenfeed Blocks (GF00 and GF02) showed better readings in average that span between 1.00% to 11.00% percentage differences with Greenfeed Blocks recording a slightly superior readings. As for the remaining Secondary Macronutrients (Calcium and Magnesium) and Micronutrient (Boron); similar pattern was observed as average readings recorded by Greenfeed Blocks (GF00 and GF02) were higher as compared to the Control Blocks (CF00, CF01A, and CF01B) with percentage up to 13.00%. These competitive readings were achieved through the application of Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer on the defined Block GF00 and Block GF02 regardless with a much lesser recommendation as compared to the current


commercial method within the industry. Nutrient supply efficiency was established based on the performance presented within this review series with a much more practical and feasible application.

This is the third review study carried out pertaining to the 10 years record assessment accounted by Greenfeed Groups. Such effort holds the purpose to achieved better and much more economical practices within this agricultural industry. Based on this review study, the Greenfeed Slow Release Fertilizer is grouped as modern high efficient fertilizer that incorporates technological advancement to significantly improve the current practiced fertilizing methodology. Through the presented information based on the presented data, Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer has been proven to be more superior as compared to the Control Fertilizer treatment applied within this study area. The monitoring effort are still being carried out periodically and further expansion on study platform is to be carried out in order to further strengthen the benefit of Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer.

5.0 REFERENCES1.Field Agronomic Reports for M Oil Palm Plantation Year 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012. Technical Research & Development Department. Greenfeed Groups.

2.B. YUSOF: Palm oil production through sustainable plantations. Eur. J. Lipid Sci. Technol. 109 (2007) 289–295

3.GOH, K.J., TEE, B.H. and ANUAR, A.R. 2000 Applicability of precision farming for oil palm plantations in Malaysia. In: Semi-nar on Precision Farming, 16 October 2000, Universiti Pertanian Malaysia and Agricultural Institute of Malaysia, Serdang: Preprint.


6.0 APPENDICESAppendix A: Recorded annual Nitrogen (N) results within study blocks.

YEAR 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 AVERAGE GF00 2.54 2.61 2.47 2.53 2.42 2.58 2.46 2.44 2.56 2.61 2.52 CF00 2.43 2.46 2.36 2.48 2.36 2.48 2.48 2.37 2.49 2.45 2.44 GF02 2.39 2.45 2.61 2.56 2.49 2.55 2.46 2.49 2.50 CF01A 2.33 2.39 2.46 2.61 2.43 2.48 2.45 2.52 2.46 CF01B 2.36 2.23 2.29 2.57 2.23 2.36 2.39 2.33 2.35

*GF- Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer Block

** CF – Commercial Control Block

Appendix B: Recorded annual Phosphorus (P) results within study blocks.




Appendix C: Recorded annual Potassium (K) results within study blocks.




Appendix D: Recorded annual Calcium (Ca) results within study blocks.







Appendix E: Recorded annual Magnesium (Mg) results within study blocks.


Appendix F: Recorded annual Boron (B) results within study blocks.

YEAR 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 AVERAGE GF00 16 23 27 21 19 20 19 23 23 33 22.40 CF00 15 17 18 19 18 21 17 20 19 32 19.62 GF02 27 24 21 20 32 25 30 35 26.71 CF01A 20 18 19 17 31 24 29 37 24.44 CF01B 25 20 22 18 26 22 23 32 23.50



Appendix G: Average Nitrogen (N) Critical Nutrient Level content

Figure 15: Recorded average Nitrogen (N) Critical Nutrient Level content


Appendix H: Average Phosphorus (P) Critical Nutrient Level content

Figure 16: Recorded average Phosphorus (P) Critical Nutrient Level content

Appendix I: Average Potassium (K) Critical Nutrient Level content

Figure 17: Recorded average Potassium (K) Critical Nutrient Level content


Appendix J: Average Calcium (Ca) Critical Nutrient Level content

Figure 18: Recorded average Calcium (Ca) Critical Nutrient Level content

Appendix K: Average Magnesium (Mg) Critical Nutrient Level content

Figure 19: Recorded average Magnesium (Mg) Critical Nutrient Level content


Appendix L: Average Boron (B) Critical Nutrient Level content

Figure 20: Recorded average Boron (B) Critical Nutrient Level content


Our Heartfelt condolences to the families and relatives of the

passengger on board MH370

May they are all in safe and in peace wherever they may be.

#prayforMH370

Slow release fertilizers is an excellent alternative to soluble fertilizers, because the nutrients are released at a

slower rate after application. Plants will take up most of the nutrients with a minimum nutrient losses through

leaching. Slow release fertilizer is more convenient and require less frequent application. Scorching will not

occur with slow release fertilizers even at high rates application; however, it is still important to follow the

application recommendations. Greenfeed® slow release fertilizer is formulated for tree plants in various soil

and weather conditions.

Every nugget of Greenfeed® slow release fertilizer is pressed into a uniform pellet shape weighs ±16.5g each;

contains all necessary nutrients and trace elements coated with water-soluble Nitrogen and Zeolite. Nutrients

will be released when it is in contact with water as well as through microbial activities soil. The improved rate

of released is efficiently controlled by the size and the pelletized form of the fertilizer. Zeolite integrated in each

nugget helps to improve the soil condition as well as promoting the root development.

Benefits of using Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer:

Economical

Environmental Friendly

New manuring method in today

oil palm plantation industry

Easy to apply

Time saving

Require less logistic and storage

Twice application yearly and no other

fertilizer needded

Higher crop yield

Greenfeed Group reserves the right to change, modify or update its content, descriptions, specification, design, constructions and shapes of its products at anytime without prior notice.

Greenfeed logo is a trademark of Greenfeed Group ©. All right reserved.

GREENFEED REVIEWSInnovation Community Experience at World Innovation Forum-Kuala Lumpur


On 12 November 2013, Greenfeed Groups was privileged to be a

part of the World Innovation Forum that was held in Kuala Lumpur

Convention Center (KLCC), Kuala Lumpur. This another aspiring

platform for Greenfeed Groups to showcase the latest

innovations achieved through technological enhancements that

will specifically benefit the agricultural industry. The World

Innovation Forum – Kuala Lumpur objective is to create a new

culture of innovation and was held at the epicenter of economic

growth, emerging technologies and innovation in Asia.

Malaysia’s Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation

(MOSTI) jointly organize this event with the cooperation of the

Malaysian Innovation Foundation/Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia

(YIM).

This event is an opportunity for organizations, countries, and

individual to showcase a wide range of innovations that possess

distinct commercial values, which in turn could propel the

economical advancement of the nations. The global economy

has been seen to changed tremendously over the years and

innovation has emerged as the key driver to carry the nations

forward up the value chain. Sharing similar objective, this is where

Greenfeed Groups comes into picture, as achieving better future

for the agricultural industry through innovations has been the light

to the torch held by the company.


This was the perfect platform for Greenfeed Groups to

showcase the latest achievements, the current on-going

researches, and possible published papers to the eyes of

other innovators within the forum. Visitors pass by from

booth to booth just to see and observed the innovations

introduced by each organization. The team representing

Greenfeed Groups also have the opportunity to be well

acquainted with other representatives from their respective

booths and exchange insights regarding the current

innovative potential of Malaysia.

Most of the visitors were delighted to observe and gain

more information pertaining to the current commercial

product manufactured by Greenfeed Groups and the

current possible expansion that are both economically

viable as well as environmental friendly. Also through this

opportunity, Greenfeed Groups was also able to showcase

one of the latest innovations specifically for oil palm

plantation with the objective to improve the total fresh fruit

bunch formation in a stand, which in turn is expected to

increase total yielding per hectare by at least 25%. This is

achieved without even having to increase total labor,

overall planting costs, and even harming the ecological

foundation within the plantation.

The already well-established practice for all Greenfeed

Groups products has significantly reduced the potential

harm on the environment with a distinctive 1:10 recommen-

dation ratio to the current commercial practice within

plantation. This was achievable through our patent techno-

logical advancements incorporated within our product.

With such fundamental attained, the latest innovations

showcased in World Innovation Forum-Kuala Lumpur

(WIF-KL) is a much more advanced introduction that is

currently reaching the final commercial observation stage

with such promising results. This was one of the items that

was fairly asked and inquired by visitors passing by Green-

feed Groups booth. Most of the visitors were most interested

with the environmental benefits that Greenfeed® Slow

Release Fertilizer has as to offer without affecting the

yielding potential for commercial oil palm planting.

Greenfeed Groups also received such astounding invita-

tions to further expand the prospect of our commercial

activity as well as our research activity to other locations

within Asia and even into other continent as well. Further-

more, some of the visitors posed some very interesting

questions pertaining to our current commercial products as

well as the latest innovations attained by Greenfeed

Groups, and our team was more than delighted to explain

and further enlighten the visitors with their inquiries.


During the three-day

event, we have

managed to grasp the

innovative potential

that Malaysia has and

with such positive

integration with

international experts,

this effort will definitely

propel the country’s

economic growth onto

another level. The

representatives from

different industries,

local as well as global

companies,

well-known speakers,

During the three-day event, we have managed to grasp

the innovative potential that Malaysia has and with such

positive integration with international experts, this effort will

definitely propel the country’s economic growth onto

another level. The representatives from different industries,

local as well as global companies, well-known speakers,

and globally renowned political figures were the correct

recipes to produce a country with a very promising

innovative future.

a

n

y

r

s

o

s

a

n

y

r

s

o

s

a

During the

the innova

positive in

definitely

another

local as

and glo

recipes

innova

and globally renowned political

figures were the correct recipes

to produce a country with a

very promising innovative future.

Fairly enough, this was a good

experience for Greenfeed

Groups as the idea for a positive

and well accepted innovations

with vital commercial values are

shared with other global players

in their respective fields.

Specifically the agricultural

industry has been an integral

part of the human civilizations

and justifiably should also not be

left behind in term of

technological advancement.


The exhibition really provides a different kind of experience as the visitors were from a different background as compared to

an agricultural based exhibition. The questions were more on the innovativeness that Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer owns

and the possible expansion for Greenfeed Groups. We were delighted that some of the visitors also gave some suggestions for

a joint effort as they saw the capacity and potential that Greenfeed Groups as well as the agricultural industry has to offer.

This industry plays a most basic role in ensuring sustenance in term of food resources for the society. With current challenging

issues involving increasing costs, environmental practice, climate shifts, increasing population, shortage of arable lands, and

improving society acceptance; equitably innovation is one of the most suitable solution to these matters. This has been the

fundamental and the direction held by Greenfeed Groups. Realizing the agricultural industry plays the most basic function in

an individual daily routine, Greenfeed Groups will continue to carry out researches and introduced more innovations into the

industry.

For over the years we pledge to bring innovations and advancement significant enough to provide positive

impact to this industry. With passion to strive towards sustainable plantting, we committeed to share the

knowledge and technology that we have and will achive with you.

Hence participation in INPALME 2014 part of our sincere effort as we will be at Booth 47

It is most beneficial that your side could be present at our booth during the course of the exhibition as we can

utilize this opportunity to provide thorough explanations and enlighten your side to the characteristics as well as

the effectiveness of Greenfeed® Slow Release Fertilizer for commercial agricultural engagements.

For more informationwww.greenfeed.com.my

International Palm Oil Exhibition 201419 (Wed) - 21 (Fri), MARCH 2014, Medan International Convention Center (MICC)Medan, Indonesia

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