In "situ" Decomposition of Banana Stalk
Type: Technologies
Creation: 2011-03-16 11:47 Updated: 2019-06-13 14:47
Compilers: Philippine Overview of Conservation Approaches and Technologies
Reviewers: Fabian Ottiger, Alexandra Gavilano
Country/ region/ locations where the Technology has been applied and which are covered by this assessment
- Country: Philippines
- Further specification of location (e.g. municipality, town, etc.), if relevant: Davao del Norte, Maguindanao, Comval Province
- Map: View Map
Description of the SLM Technology
Short description of the Technology
Leaving the trunk of a newly harvested banana standing beside a follower plant to provide nutrients and moisture especially during period of drought.
Detailed description of the Technology
Traditionally, banana is cut at the base (ground level) during harvesting and the stem is used as mulch. This has been the practice of the banana plantations for many years. Lately however, it was found out by research that by leaving the trunk standing beside a follower plant, yield could be improved because the trunk contains nutrients and moisture which could be used by the succeeding plants. The banana crown is cut just below the fruit and the leaves used as mulch. After a few months the trunk disintegrates and decomposes and the follower plants grow unimpeded utilizing the nutrients and moisture contained in the decomposing trunk..
Photos of the Technology
- 📍 Mindanao, Philippines, Davao del Norte
- 📷 Henry Apolinares
- 📍 Mindanao, Philippines, Davao del Norte
- 📷 Henry Apolinares