EFFECT OF SHADE ON BANANA MORPHOLOGY, GROWTH AND PRODUCTION

The effect of three shade levels on morphology, growth and productivity of 'Grand Nain' (AAA) bananas during their first and second production cycles was studied in the Jordan Valley, Israel. In vitro propagated plants that were planted in the field in April 1990 were shaded with black saran screens of different densities, installed above the canopy level. The resultant photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) was reduced to 80%, 60% or 30% of the unshaded control. Although only the heaviest shade affected plant vegetative growth in the first cycle, bunch weight was reduced by 7% and 32% under medium and heavy shade, respectively. A highly significant effect on vegetative growth and production was observed during the second cycle. Flowering date was delayed by 6 days, 9 days and 15 days, and bunch weight was reduced by 8%, 21% and 55% under light, medium and heavy shade, respectively. Yield was reduced by all levels of shade, owing to the combined effect of reduced bunch weight and a lower stand. Shading reduced the rate of leaf emergence, leaf and foliage area, plant height and pseudostem circumference. The leaves had thinner laminae, with a reduced number of stomata and higher chlorophyll content. Our observations indicate a significant effect of long-term shade on bananas, and the utilization of high levels of PPFD by the banana plant.