Nutritional interrelations in nendran banana (Musa AAB)

Abstract

An experiment on nutritional inter-relations in Nendran banana was coitducted during 2001-2002 in the farm attached to the Campus Development office, Vellanikkara. Objective of the study was to elucidate the interaction pattern between applied and native elements, which influenced the productivity of banana. The study also aimed at developing a sustainable management system that would bring about a balance between removal of nutrients and yield without depleting soil. The pattern of influences of different sources such as organic, inorganic and integrated forms on growth as well as productivity of banana was studied. Interacting influences of Nand P at two levels, one being the recommended dose and the other, a lower dose, were also studied. The results showed that treatments had a significant beneficial influence on growth characters as well as yield attributes. The integrated nutrient management system showed better response. Total yield as well as yield attributes like number of hands, total number of fingers per bunch, number of D fingers and D finger weight were the highest with integrated method. Foliar contents of Fe and Mn were reduced while those of other essential cations were increased. Application of Nand P at levels lower than the recommended one, gave better results. An analysis of foliar nutrient contents indicated that application of any element by itself was !lot a guarantee for its uptake, but was subjected to the influences of other elements, either applied or native. The highest yield was obtained when foliar K content as well as ratios of Ca+MglFe, Ca+Mg/Mn, S/Fe and S/Ml1 recorded high values. Integrated nutrient application, reducing Nand P levels, basal dressing with time as well as top dressing with S containing compounds like K2S04 are related to higher productivity and sustainability.