Bananas are one of our most important crops. Here are five practices we follow at Zivah Farms to keep our plants healthy and productive.
1. Space your plants well
Give each plant enough room to grow. Crowded plants compete for water and sunlight, and diseases spread faster.
2. Mulch around the base
A layer of dry grass or leaves keeps moisture in the soil and suppresses weeds. It also protects the roots during dry spells.
3. Remove dead leaves
Cut away dry and diseased leaves regularly. This improves air flow and reduces the risk of fungal infections.
4. Feed your plants
Apply compost or manure every few months. Bananas are heavy feeders — well-fed plants produce bigger bunches.
5. Support heavy bunches
Use a prop or stake to support bunches as they grow heavy. This prevents the plant from snapping and protects your harvest.