Banana is an internationally important crop with a contribution of 33% of total fruit production in India only, supporting the livelihood of millions of people. Its production is the highest in Maharashtra with 3924.1 thousand tonnes followed by Tamil Nadu with 3543.8 thousand tonnes, annually. Other major Indian states that grow bananas are Karnataka, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, and Kerala, according to the National Horticulture Board.
Banana being a tropical crop needs a warm, humid, and rainy climate with temperatures ranging from 15-35 degree Celsius and humidity levels of 80% and above. Soil for banana cultivation requires deep, rich, loamy soil with a pH between 6.5-7.5 and good drainage, ample fertility, and moisture.
Moreover, soil rich in organic material with high nitrogen content, ample phosphorus level and plenty of potash in it is good for healthy banana growth.
To get a good yield of bananas, it is absolutely necessary to ensure that the soil is perfect for its growth. Once the soil quality is checked and ready to be used, the next step is preparing the land. Follow the following steps to know more.
Land Preparation Process:
Prior to planting the bananas, it is advised to grow green manuring crops such as daincha and cowpea.
To prepare the land, the selected field should be ploughed 4-6 times and allowed to weather for two weeks before the ground is levelled by passing a blade harrow.
Plough furrows should be formed lengthwise and breadth-wise with the required spacing and intersection of the plough furrow pits of size 0.6m x 0.6m x 0.6m.
VST FT 50 GE Power Weeder is the best suited for earthing up, land preparation, row making, and de-weeding in banana cultivation, with its adjustable rotary, 360-degree rotating handle, and strong cast iron gear. It is also lightweight and easy to handle, making it the most convenient choice of weeder for preparing the land.
Typically, FYM or well-decomposed compost are mixed with the topsoil for filling the pits at the time of planting.
Lastly, if the selected land is in an area where nematode problem is prevalent, nematicides and fumigants are also added to pits before planting.
