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This text examines the cultivation and exploitation of the oil palm. It covers oil palm distribution and the factors necessary for successful production as well as the important varieties of oil palm and techniques for genetic improvement. All aspects of cultivation are presented from seed selection through harvesting. Advice is given on inputs, including fertilizer, equipment and labour requirements. Turning to outputs, processing methods are described, as are the many uses, and health benefits of the palm and palm kernel oils and the by-products. Information on oil palm pests and diseases including symptoms, means of prevention and possible treatments, is presented in a tabular section.