Root Interaction Study in Banana, Ginger, and Turmeric Plots Intercropped with Immature Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis) in Galle District, Sri Lanka.

Abstract

Intercropping has emerged as a viable agroforestry practice to enhance land use efficiency and productivity, particularly in immature oil palm plantations. This study investigates the root interaction patterns among banana (Musa spp.), ginger (Zingiber officinale), and turmeric (Curcuma longa) under immature oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) in Thalgaswella Estate, Galle District, Sri Lanka. Data were collected over a nine-month period, with collections conducted once in every three months. Root samples were collected from four corners of each intercrop plot using a non-destructive method, where a polythene sheet was laid under the soil so that the observation of root distribution was very clear to observe, and root distribution was observed to assess the interaction. In most of the occasions, primary roots were observed in banana plots where ginger and turmeric plots show more tertiary and secondary root interactions. In banana, ginger and turmeric plots there were 21 primary roots discovered. The total of 78 secondary roots were observed throughout the sampling process. Altogether 395 tertiary roots were observed in all three types of intercrop plots. This study provides insights into optimizing intercropping combinations under immature oil palms.