Agronomic Performance of Banana Genotypes under Agroecological Management in the Semi-arid Region of Paraiba, Brazil

Introduction: Northeastern Brazil is a banana producing zone where the selection of banana tree genotypes has significantly increased crop productivity.

Aims: The study aimed to evaluate the agronomic performance of different banana-tree genotypes under agroecological management in northeastern Brazil.

Methodology: The experiment was conducted in the orchard of the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Paraíba following a randomized complete block design with nine treatments (banana tree genotypes) in four replications. Banana tree seedlings used as planting material were provided by Empresa Campo Biotecnologia. They were produced by micropropagation of plantlets. Cropping was handled following agroecological practices. Growth measurements and yield data regarding the the first crop cycle were recorded.

Results and Conclusions: Significant differences in yields and yield traits within banana-tree genotypes were observed. Prata Graúda and Grande Naine genotypes came out on top in terms of agronomic performance under agroecological practices.