To be able
to establish a plantain farm for increased and sustainable production, while
reducing costs and maximizing returns on investment, the farmer should be
acquainted with basic and affordable techniques required in field establishment
and maintenance of a profitable plantain farm.
Any field
establishment for sustainable plantain production must take into account the
basic needs of high organic matter and water supplies. Nitrogen, potassium and
magnesium are very essential and required in large quantity for good crop
performance.
Therefore, a soil analysis helps to ascertain the nutrient status.
The following
steps are essential in field establishment for sustainable production:
·
Selection
of the site
·
Preparation
of the land
·
Field
layout and digging
·
Planting and field maintenance
F
F
How to select a good site
A good site provides a smooth gateway for increased and sustainable
production and a profitable farming enterprise. A visual observation of the
site can provide adequate information on the suitability of the site.
A land with predominantly grass weed is less preferred and should be
avoided because grass compact the top soil and makes establishment to be more
difficult. A land with too many big trees should also be avoided.
The site should be well drained as water logging and flooding is
disadvantageous. A land with a lot of organic matter is recommended.
In an area with prolonged dry periods, irrigation facilities are
necessary because plantains require an average 120mm -160mm of rain monthly and
2000mm -2500mm rain per year.
Ayodele Adegbulugbe
