Factorial combination of manure rates and bunch pruning intensities influenced bunch physical traits of two plantain (Musa Spp. AAB) genotypes
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1
Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
 
2
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, P.M.B 5320, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
 
 
Int. Agrophys. 2009, 23(3): 207-213
 
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ABSTRACT
The combined effects of three rates of poultry manure and three bunch pruning intensities on bunch physical traits of ‘PITA 24’ (a plantain hybrid) and ‘Mbi-Egome’ (a plantain landrace) were studied. Data were collected on bunch weight, number of hands per bunch, fruits per bunch, bunch-fill index, weights of hands 1-6 (from the proximal end), fruit weight, girth and length, fruit edible proportion and pulp dry matter content. Results showed that ‘PITA 24’ produced significantly heavier bunches than ‘Mbi-Egome’. Similar trend was observed in the number of hands and fruits per bunch, and fresh weights of the first four proximal hands. ‘Mbi-Egome’ however, had significantly higher values for individual fruit. Manured plants had a significant yield improvement over the control plants (no manure) however, there was a quantitative yield decline at 20 t application. The 20% pruned plants produced significantly heavier bunches and higher number of properly filled fruits. A significant increase in fruit size, bunch-fill index, fruit edible proportion, pulp dry matter content and weights of hands 1-6 was observed as pruning intensity increased. It was concluded that harvest size of plantains could be improved through judicious use of poultry manure and bunch pruning management.
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