Physiological functions of micronutrients in enhancing banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) yield

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of micronutrient fertigation on the yield maximization of banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) in India, addressing the critical role of micronutrients in crop health and productivity. Conducted at the College of Agriculture, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, during 2020–21 and 2021–22, the experiment utilized the Grand Naine cultivar under a complete randomized block design. Treatments included varying concentrations of zinc (1.5 and 2.0 ppm), iron (1.5 and 2.0 ppm), and boron (0.3 and 0.6 ppm), combined with a standard dose of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). Morphological, physiological, phenological, and biochemical traits were assessed post-treatment. Results indicated that zinc at 2.0 ppm significantly enhanced growth and physiological parameters, while iron at 2.0 ppm maximized chlorophyll content. Additionally, boron treatments improved fruit biochemical traits, including sugars and ascorbic acid content. This study concludes that optimal micronutrient application can substantially enhance banana yield and quality, with specific recommendations for zinc and iron concentrations to improve crop attributes.