Information
Banana nutrition in North Queensland
Level 1 General description
Purpose
This study monitored rates of nitrogen and potassium required for bananas in Queensland’s wet tropics between1995-1999. The study identified losses of nutrients through deep drainage, optimum application rates for banana growth and management techniques to assist nutrient recycling back into the plant.
Methods (brief)
The study encompassed 4 separate experiments:
- Measure yield and fruit quality responses to applied N and K rates. Lysimeters were used to measure transport of nutrients;
- Measure growth rates in relation to nutrient uptake rates; and
- Identify plant demand for nitrogen and the relative contributions of soil and fertiliser nitrogen.
Key findings
Minimum N and P requirements for a successful banana crop were 100 kg of N and 300 kg of K per ha per year. Rates needed for ratoon crops were slightly higher for nitrogen, ratoon crop requirements are 150 kg of N and 300 kg of K per ha per year.
Location
South Johnstone, north Queensland (lat. 17°38’S)
Related studies
Armour J.D, Rasiah V, Whiteing T, Brodie J, Cogle A.L. 2006. Nitrogen loss in sub-surface drainage from bananas in tropical north Queensland.