Productivity and economics of banana (Musa species AAA)- based crop sequences

Abstract

In a field experiment performance of 7 banana (Musa sp., AM)-based crop sequences was assessed in terms of their productivity, economic returns and impact on soil fertility. The crop, whose combinations constituted the sequences were banana, papaya (Carica papaya L.), pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.], wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.), maize (Zea mays L.), cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.], okra (Hibiscus esculentus L.), greengram (Phaseolus radiatus L.) and lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus). The sequence of banana PC (PC, plant crop) - papaya (2 crop cycles)-banana PC-banana R, (R,, first ratoon) gave the highest banana-equivalent yield (78.57 tonnedhdyear), net return (Rs 78.414lhdyear) as well as returnlrupee investment (Rs 1.991Re). Another sequence (banana PC-banana R,-lentil-pigeonpea-papaya 1 crop) where banana and papaya were seperated by growing pulses proved to be comparable with the best treatment with a return rate of Rs 1.88lrupee investment. The above 2 sequences did not show any adverse impact on soil- fertility status. Crop sequence without banana was least profitable. Banana monoculture for 4 crop cycles [banana PGbanana R,- banana R2 (R, second ratoon)-banana PC] showed yield decline in third and fourth cycles, registering a lower net return of Rs 1 .WRelyear.