IMPACT OF SEASONAL DYNAMICS ON COCONUT YIELD IN THANJAVUR DISTRICT, TAMIL NADU

The productivity of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) in tropical regions like Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu, is intricately linked to seasonal climatic dynamics.This study investigates the impact of seasonal variations, primarily monsoonal patterns, temperature fluctuations, and irrigation availability on coconut yields over a three-year period from April 2022 to March 2025.Results indicate a significant decline in yield during extreme summer periods (March-May), largely attributed to elevated temperatures exceeding 38 C, delayed irrigation, and premature flower drop.Conversely, higher yields were observed in the months following adequate northeast monsoon rainfall, suggesting a lag effect tied to the reproductive cycle of coconut palms.The data reveal that yield per palm dropped by up to 40% during monsoon-deficient years, with spatial variability linked to groundwater access and microclimatic conditions.This study highlights the critical role of rainfall timing and temperature thresholds in shaping annual yield variability.It further underscores the need for adaptive agronomic strategies such as precision irrigation, mulching, and stress-resilient hybrid varieties.The findings offer valuable insights for farmers, policymakers, and agricultural planners aiming to enhance coconut productivity and climate resilience in deltaic regions of southern India.