Due to the widespread occurrence of Panama disease, pink bananas carry a relatively high investment risk. As a result, in the past, our province only saw sporadic and small-scale cultivation. However, in recent years, due to the superior quality and attractive market prices of powdered bananas, large-scale planting has become more common. In 2001, two towns in Yangchun City—Yangchun City and Dachen Village—planted 1,000 acres of pink bananas. Despite this expansion, most farmers still lack proper management, leading to low yields. The average yield per plant is between 20 to 25 kg, and per mu (about 0.067 hectares), it ranges from 2,600 to 3,000 kg, which does not yet deliver significant economic returns.
However, through the efforts of the Mashui Xieyan Needle team, some farmers have achieved remarkable results. Their pink banana plants produced up to 45 kg per plant (with some reaching as high as 56 kg), yielding 5,000 kg per mu and generating an income of 8,000 to 10,000 yuan per mu, showing considerable profitability. Below are the key practices that contributed to this success:
First, site selection and seedling choice are crucial. Pink bananas prefer well-drained, loose, slightly alkaline soil with good organic content. They are tall and have a deep root system, but they are vulnerable to Panama disease and poor drainage. Therefore, it’s important to choose low-lying areas with good drainage and avoid high groundwater levels or acidic soils. For seedlings, tissue culture seedlings are recommended because they are disease-free and more resistant to Panama disease compared to suckers. If using suckers, only healthy, vigorous sprouts from non-infected plants should be selected.
Second, timely planting and scientific management are essential. Pink bananas take about 12 to 13 months to flower and 15 to 16 months to harvest. Prices are generally higher and more stable between December and June, so planting should occur between September and February each year. The plants grow taller than regular bananas, reaching 3.5 to 4.5 meters, with wider spacing—typically 2.5 meters apart, allowing for 100 to 110 plants per mu.
Third, proper fertilization is vital. Before planting, apply 50 to 55 kg of superphosphate and 200 to 300 kg of manure mixed with compost for at least 10 days as base fertilizer. After planting, use urea, superphosphate, potassium chloride, and manure, or compound fertilizer (15-15-15) to provide additional nutrients. Apply small amounts every 10 to 15 days, gradually increasing over time. Adding cow urine can improve the effectiveness of the water-soluble fertilizer.
Fourth, disease and pest control must be prioritized. Panama disease is a serious soil-borne virus that is difficult to treat once infected. Prevention is key, especially by avoiding root damage during weeding and other field operations. Herbicides can be used to control weeds without disturbing the roots. Fungicides such as benzimidazole and insecticides like methamidophos should be sprayed every 15 to 20 days to prevent leaf spot, mosaic, and other diseases. Lime application also helps neutralize soil acidity and reduce pathogen spread.
Fifth, regular pruning and bud removal are necessary. Pink bananas produce multiple shoots, and if left unchecked, these can compete for nutrients and reduce yield. Removing unwanted shoots every other month ensures the main plant gets enough resources. Only one shoot should be left after the mother plant begins to flower.
Sixth, fruit thinning is important for optimal yield. Each bunch typically has 20 to 25 spikes, and after the ear is formed, the last 3 to 5 spikes should be removed, leaving 9 to 17. This helps ensure larger, healthier fruits and improves overall productivity.
Finally, irrigation and drainage are critical. Although pink bananas are drought-tolerant, prolonged flooding can lead to root rot, while dry conditions can cause stress. Farmers should maintain a semi-wet environment by watering regularly or "ramping the water" in the fields when needed.
By following these practices, farmers can significantly improve their yields and profitability while reducing the risk of disease. These methods have proven effective in several regions and offer a sustainable approach to pink banana cultivation.
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