Red Banana Cultivation in North India, Modern Techniques and Practices

Farmers can prepare green manure before planting banana crops. Using green manure not only results in better production but also enhances soil fertility. The increasing use of chemical fertilizers in fields has been depleting the soil’s fertility. In North India, the best time to plant red bananas is from June 15 to September 15.

Red Banana Cultivation:

North India, successful cultivation of red bananas can be achieved through proper agricultural practices and modern farming techniques. Farmers can double their income by growing red bananas, known for their red-purple color and sweet taste. This variety is typically grown in tropical and subtropical regions. While red banana farming is already popular in the southern states, research to popularize it in Bihar began in 2023.

Soil Preparation for High Yield of Red Bananas:

Before cultivating red bananas, check the soil nutrients and determine the pH level. A pH level of 5.5 to 7.5 with good drainage is ideal for red banana cultivation. Clear the field of weeds and debris and plow the soil to a depth of 30-40 cm. The ideal annual rainfall is 800-1200 mm, and the optimal temperature for banana growth is between 25-35 degrees Celsius.

Nutrient-Rich Green Manure:

To enhance soil fertility for banana cultivation, a high nutrient content is essential. Using green manure in the fields not only increases soil fertility but also boosts crop productivity. Green manure is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, molybdenum, and iron. It enhances the organic content in the soil, thereby increasing crop productivity.

Increasing Soil Fertility with Dhaincha: To improve soil fertility, farmers can sow crops like sunn hemp, mung bean, cowpea, and dhaincha in May-June. These crops yield well in a short time and enhance soil fertility. Dhaincha manure also helps reduce soil alkalinity. Fields where dhaincha is cultivated often have already been treated with soil conditioners, gypsum, or pyrite.

Using Dhaincha Manure for Better Banana Yield: Green manure is rich in nitrogen, which increases chemical, physical, and biological activity in the soil. This, in turn, helps improve the productivity, quality, and yield of bananas. To prepare the soil, irrigate the empty field lightly for moisture and sow 40-45 kg of dhaincha seeds. When the crop is about 50-60 days old, plow it into the soil. This process ensures the preparation of excellent green manure before planting bananas.