Yield and fruit quality of banana (Musa acuminata Colla 'Lakatan') as influenced by fertilization and canopy size during fruit development

This study evaluated the impact of fertilization and canopy size on the yield and fruit quality of bananas (Musa acuminata Colla 'Lakatan' ). It is the first to quantify the relationships between net photosynthesis, transpiration rate, and water use efficiency (WUE) in Lakatan' bananas. Conducted under natural climate conditions, various fertilization regimes were employed to determine their effects on photosynthetic efficiency, yield, post-harvest fruit composition, and quality. The study found that bananas maintain constant WUE across different leaf positions and profiles. Results showed that younger leaves and abaxial surfaces had higher rates of photosynthesis and transpiration. Larger canopies, maintained with at least seven healthy leaves, were associated with higher yields and fruit dimensions due to better resource allocation and photosynthetic capacity, despite smaller canopies compensating with increased photosynthetic rates. Leaf tissue nutrient analysis showed adequate nitrogen and phosphorus uptake and significant potassium deficiency during the early reproductive stages, with all nutrients declining in later stages. Thus, early potassium supplementation during the vegetative stage was crucial for optimizing yield and fruit quality, while fertilization post-vegetative stage had minimal impact. Therefore, soil fertilization at a recommended rate of 180 42 - 282 kg/ha/year during the vegetative stage while maintaining an adequate canopy size of at least seven leaves up to harvest is essential for optimizing banana cultivation, improving yield, and enhancing fruit size and quality. In terms of fruit composition, the flesh was rich in carbohydrates, while the peel had significant nutritional value, suggesting potential for repurposing. However, harvesting at full physiological maturity is more crucial than additional fertilization for achieving better quality.