Red bananas are known for their reddish-purple flesh and sweet creamy flesh. Red banana farming has become a serious economic activity in regions with suitable climate.
Growth requirements
Red bananas thrive in tropical and subtropical climates, require warm and humid temperatures ranging from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Red bananas require well drained fertile soils with good organic matter content for ideal growth.
There are several varieties including red darker and red Spanish varieties. Choose a variety that suits your climate and market demand.
Agronomy
Red bananas can be propagated either by suckers or tissue culture but suckers are the main mode of propagation. Suckers should only be picked from healthy disease free plants.
Plant the suckers at a spacing of 10 to 12 feet between plants and ensure proper sunlight exposure for optimal growth of plants.
Constantly water the bananas to keep the soil evenly moist, and apply fertilizers rich in phosphorous, potassium and micro nutrients.
Management practices
Common pests and diseases that affect red bananas include aphids, nematodes and panama disease. Apply organic or chemical remedies to control these pests and diseases.
Harvesting is done when the bananas are mature and is done using a sharp tools to avoid damage the bananas.
