Plantains
Plantains
Plantains are within the major group of banana varieties (genus Musa) and are staple foods in many tropical areas. The edible fruit of plantain bananas has more starch than the common dessert banana and is not eaten raw. Plantains are generally grown in warm, tropical climates.
Sigatoka
Sigatoka poses one of the greatest threats to plantain production and success. Black Sigatoka, also known as black leaf streak, can cause significant foliage loss and up to 50% loss of yield. As pesticides have been used to control this fungal disease, resistance to systemic chemistries has become prevalent. Best practices now incorporate the use of more contact based, residual fungicides such as chlorothalonil. The addition of Nu-Film-17® allows for a more consistent deposition and retention on the leaf surface of the fungicide, which is critical for efficacy.
Nu-Film® 17
Nu-Film® 17 is a superior deposition, sticker, and extender adjuvant with non-ionic properties based on proprietary Miller technology containing Pinolene.
Finger Development
Finger development is a key milestone in the overall crop production cycle. In order for a healthy harvest to occur, a healthy finger development must take place. A number of key micronutrients are critical, but especially boron and zinc. When nutrients are not available or are deficient in the soil, this can lead to a reduced or stunted finger development. Boro Zinc™ provides a mix of micronutrients to address the key needs during development.
Miller Boro Zinc™
Miller Boro Zinc™ 10-10 is a highly soluble specialty fertilizer.
Hand Development
Hand development in bananas is a key milestone in the formation of a healthy and productive plantain crop. Hand development is the process by which the first female flowers of the plant develop parthenocarpically (without pollination/fertilization) into clusters of fruit, called hands. This process can potentially be improved with the addition of Cytokin® plant growth regulator. The nature-based plant growth regulator effects present with an application of Cytokin® helps to maximize conditions necessary for fruit set and early fruit development. Contains plant growth hormones responsible for cell division, cell enlargement, and various other plant growth functions.
Cytokin®
Cytokin® is a plant- based EPA registered plant growth regulator designed to increase crop production efficiency.