Preferred Banana Varieties and their Seed Systems in Eastern and Central provinces of Kenya

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Date
2010Author
Mwangi, M.
Kasyoka, M.R.
Mbaka, J.
Kori, N.
Gitonga, N.
Muasya, R.
Adipala, E.
Tusiime, G.
Majaliwa, J.G.M.
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Show full item recordAbstract
Banana is an important crop for food security in Kenya. Its
production has been hindered by scarcity of seedlings and pests,
among other factors. A recent survey in eastern and central
Kenya showed that desert varieties are prefered due to market
demand. Natural regeneration is also preferred by most farmers
(>85%) but it is inefficient and a source of pests and diseases
to new plantations. On the other hand, adoption of tissue culture
has been hindered by high cost of seedlings. Farmers need to
be educated on shortcomings of natural regeneration and
affordable seedling delivery system implemented.
Macropropagation supported by an efficient delivery system is
proposed to boost banana production in Kenya.