Mineral Deficiency in Production of Banana Seedlings
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Date
2011
Authors
Njau, N.
Mwangl, M.
Kahuthia-Gathu, R.
Kori, N.
Muasya, R.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International E-Conference on Agricultural Biosciences
Abstract
Banana (Musa spp.) is one of the most important fruits for food security and income. It fruits all year round thus providing a continuous supply of food. Bananas require nutrients so as to give high yields and good quality fruits. They require nutrients high in Nitrogen (N) and Potassium (K). K is important for promoting early shooting and reduces the amount of time the fruit takes to mature while improving size of the fingers and quality. Therefore, soil fertility must be maintained by continuously replenishing the soil with nutrients in form of either organic or inorganic nutrients. Nitrogen deficiency is shown by small and pale green leaves. Potassium deficiency is shown by the leaves turning brown, curling and drying up starting with the older leaves, the midrib breaks at two thirds of the stem. Nutrients are important in all stages of growth of