The planting distance depends on the system chosen in monoculture or in association. At a distance of 3 x 3 meters, in a square layout, there is a density of 1,111 banana plants per hectare or 1,280 plants if it is in a triangle. Cover crops such as pumpkin, beans, corn, and beans can be planted between the rows, which allows for weed control and maximum use of the land in the initial stage of cultivation.
▶ In the field, it is recommended to draw the base line at the head of the lot, with two stakes joined by a rope. Then, using the 3-4-5 method, the right angle is located to frame the outline of the land. Subsequently, using rods with the required measurement (3 m), begin to mark, from the first stake, the exact position where the plants will be. When carrying out this task, make sure that the stakes marking the position of the plants are in line with each other lengthwise, crosswise and diagonally.
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After having marked the sites where the plants are to be planted and with sufficient anticipation, the hole is opened, the size should be 40 x 40 x 40 cm. It is essential to physically and chemically prepare the hole, the area where the banana roots will develop.
The banana roots are very weak and need loose soil for their proper development. One kilogram of organic fertilizer mixed with 100 grams of lime and magnesium should be added and mixed with the topsoil, which facilitates permeability, aeration and adequate root penetration.
The most propitious time for planting is the beginning of the rainy season. The corm should be placed in a vertical position so that the cut made in the pseudostem is 5 centimeters below the surface. At the moment of transplanting the plants produced in a bag, the bag is removed and the plant is placed in the center of the hole. The backfill soil should be tamped down to avoid leaving air chambers that facilitate root rotting due to waterlogging.
Once the plantain corms or seedlings have been planted, the soil is loosened and the roots penetrate into the soil. Organic matter and dolomite lime can be applied in the area where the plantain seedlings are replanted. If possible, weed residues should be placed around the newly planted plant in order to increase water infiltration, maintain humidity and temperature and prevent rainwater from splashing.
NOTE: Reference material.