Banana bunch covers for quality banana production: A review

Abstract

India is the world’s leading producer of bananas, contributing nearly 18% of the global output of approximately 139 million metric tonnes. Despite this dominant position, the country’s share in international banana exports remains very low due to several quality-related and logistical challenges. The external appearance, internal quality, and market acceptability of bananas are strongly influenced by production practices adopted during cultivation. Among these practices, the use of banana bunch covers has emerged as an effective physical protection technique. Bunch covers enhance the visual appeal of the fruit by improving skin colouration and minimizing blemishes, while also modifying the micro-environment surrounding the developing bunch. This altered micro-climate can positively influence fruit development, leading to improvements in pulp quality, ripening behaviour, and overall shelf life. In addition to improving quality, bunch covers help reduce the incidence of various biotic and abiotic stresses, including insect pests, diseases, mechanical injury, sunburn, fruit cracking, bird damage, and contamination from agrochemical sprays. However, the practice can be labour-intensive, and its economic feasibility particularly the benefit cost ratio needs thorough evaluation before widespread adoption can be recommended, especially in resource-limited production systems. Although several studies from different banana-growing regions of the world have examined the effects of bunch covering, the findings remain scattered and unorganized. Recognizing this gap, we have undertaken an effort to compile, synthesize, and present the available global research on banana bunch covers. This compilation aims to provide a comprehensive reference for researchers, farmers, and extension personnel to support informed decision-making and promote improved production practices in the banana sector.