Optimization of Banana Sucker Production Using Different Macropropagation Structures and Substrate

Farmers in Malawi encounter challenges in obtaining high-quality banana (Musa spp.) planting materials, affecting agricultural productivity. This study aimed to assess the impact of different macro-propagation structures (standard chamber, standard chamber with spectra net, and mulched open bed) and substrates (rice husks, sawdust, loam soil) on the growth of the Cv. Williams banana variety. The objectives included evaluating growth parameters such as leaf number, plant height, root count, root length, and sucker yield, as well as investigating the relationship between decapitated suckers and secondary suckers using regression analysis and Pearson correlation. The study utilized a split-plot design with three replicates, and data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's LSD test. A principal component analysis (PCA) biplot was used to illustrate the connections between environmental factors (temperature and humidity) and performance metrics of macro-propagation units. The results indicated that the Standard Chamber with sawdust had the highest sucker count (135.33), while the Open Bed with rice husks had the lowest (27). These findings suggest that adopting the Standard Chamber with sawdust and decapitation can improve banana propagation, thereby enhancing food security and economic development in banana-producing regions.