How much water does oil palm need and can I grow it without assured irrigation?

Oil palm is a heavy water user and is not a crop for limited or uncertain water. A mature palm needs a large volume of water through the year, and the recommendation is assured irrigation, usually drip, in addition to good rainfall. In areas with only rainfed or unreliable water, oil palm yields poorly and the bunches stay small, so the heavy planting investment does not pay back. If your water is limited, this is a high risk crop and you should reconsider. Where water is assured, drip irrigation is strongly advised to deliver the needed water efficiently and there is often subsidy support. Honestly assess your year round water before planting, and confirm the per palm water requirement and irrigation plan with the oil palm mission staff or KVK for your zone.