In the typical lifecycle of a banana plant the first 5-6 months are the vegetative growth stage of the plant. For proper inflorescence to develop it is very important to take care of the vegetative growth of the plant. The banana plant should produce one leaf a week – 4 a month – and 24 leaves in a six month period. This indicates a healthy growing pattern of the plant.
For a healthy vegetative growth a balanced supply of nutrients is essential. Nitrogen for vegetative development, Phosphorus to develop a good root system and development of nucleic acids and ATP, Calcium and Boron for a sturdy structure of the pseudostem and maintaining proper distance between two leaves.
Inflorescence starts to emerge after around six months. A healthy inflorescence is a result of proper nutrition management in the vegetative stage. Banana being a Potassium loving plant, a healthy dose of Potassium also helps in development of a healthy inflorescence.
However, we have to ensure that the Nitrate Nitrogen levels in the plant do not shoot up at this stage. Hence it is imperative that a good source of Calcium with Boron in flakes form be applied. The dose of such a product is 60% less than conventional calcium nitrate. The use of PK fertilizer along with a natural auxin also helps in maintaining a healthy flower.
