STEM FEED

It is a method of delivering nutrients or plant protection products directly into the stem or trunk of a plant. This allows the material to move through the plant's vascular system and act quickly. It is commonly used in crops such as coconut, arecanut, oil palm, mango, and some fruit trees.

Stem feeding is an effective technique for delivering fungicides, insecticides, nutrients, or bio-products directly into the coconut palm's vascular system. It is commonly used to manage diseases, nutrient deficiencies, and certain insect pests.

USES OF STEM FEEDING

• Controls stem and vascular diseases.
• Delivers fungicides, insecticides, or nutrients directly into the plant.
• Improves nutrient uptake when root absorption is poor.
• Helps recover plants affected by root or stem diseases.
• Reduces chemical wastage and environmental contamination because the treatment is targeted.

BENEFITS

• Faster absorption and action.
• More effective against internal pests and diseases.
• Lower chemical usage compared to spraying.
• Useful during dry conditions when root uptake is limited.

COMMON CROPS

• Coconut
• Arecanut
• Oil Palm
  
• Cocoa

STEM FEEDING PROCEDURE 

MATERIALS REQUIRED

• Recommended stem feed solution (fungicide, insecticide, nutrient, or bio-product)
• Clean plastic bottle (100–250 ml)
• Plastic tubing (optional)
• Sharp drill or chisel
• Knife
• Sealing material (wax or clay, if required)
• Gloves and safety equipment

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PROCEDURE

1. Select a healthy feeding point
   • Choose a point on the trunk about 1–1.5 m above ground level.
   • Avoid damaged or diseased areas.
2. Prepare the hole
   • Drill a hole at a 45° downward angle.
   • The hole should be about 5–8 cm deep and just wide enough to fit the feeding tube or bottle nozzle.
3. Prepare the solution
   • Mix the recommended product according to the manufacturer's label.
   • Pour the required quantity into a clean plastic bottle.
4. Attach the bottle
   • Insert the bottle nozzle or tube tightly into the drilled hole.
   • Invert the bottle so the solution slowly flows into the stem.
   • Ensure there is no leakage.
5. Allow absorption
   • The palm absorbs the solution gradually, usually within 2–24 hours, depending on the tree's condition and weather.
6. Remove and seal
   • After the solution is completely absorbed, remove the bottle.
   • Seal the hole with wax or clay if recommended to prevent infection.

BEST TIME FOR STEM FEEDING 

• Early morning or late afternoon.
• Preferably during active growth.Avoid heavy rain immediately after treatment.
• Avoid heavy rain immediately after treatment.

PRECAUTIONS

• Use only the recommended dosage.
• Sterilize drilling tools before use.
• Do not make multiple holes in the same trunk.
• Rotate the feeding point for future treatments.
• Wear protective equipment while handling chemicals

Note: The stem-feeding product and dosage vary depending on the purpose (e.g., controlling stem bleeding, root wilt, red palm weevil, nutrient deficiency, or applying biological formulations). Always follow the label directions for the specific product being used.

Stem-feeding dosage, a commonly used recommendation for stem/root disease control is:

👉 2 ml fungicide + 100 ml water per coconut palm

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