Title : In-vivo mass propagation of banana: An alternative low-cost technology for smallholder farmers in Cagayan valley, Philippines
Abstract:
The main production constraint for bananas is the availability of disease-free and healthy planting materials. Tissue culture is a technique that could provide these materials, but it is expensive and requires specialized knowledge. In-vivo mass propagation of bananas, or macropropagation technique, offers simpler and more affordable processes that could enhance seedling production. This study evaluated the effects of irrigation levels and growth enhancers on the macropropagation of banana under glasshouse conditions. The implemented experimental design was factorial in a completely randomized design, where Factor A consisted of different water regimes (50%, 100%, 150% recommended rate) combined with different growth enhancers (coconut water, seaweed extracts, BAP or Benzyl Amino Purine) as Factor B. Results clearly suggest the advantage of using plant growth enhancers and suitable levels of water for the macropropagation of bananas. The water regime of 50% of the recommended rate plus the application of BAP as plant growth enhancers are recommended for obtaining maximum growth, more plantlets produced, and irrigation water efficiency in bananas. It could not only save water for plants but also accelerate the growth and production of bananas; therefore, it could be considered an alternative low-cost technology for banana production by smallhold farmers in the region.
