Observations on the Response of Gros Michel Banana Plants in Sand Cultures to Different Proportions of Various Cations and Anions

Abstract

Greenhouse studies with Gros Michel bananas in sand cultures were conducted in two experiments. In one, nitrates, phosphates, and sulfates were varied while cations were kept constant. In another, potassium, calcium, and magnesium concentrations were variable while anions were constant. Measurements of height, stem diameter, number of leaves, and length and width of the second topmost leaf were taken when the plants were 6 months old. The general appearance of the plants was also evaluated. At a given nitrate level a more normal metabolism was possible when phosphate concentration decreased. High potassium favored better plant development. The data suggest a greater antagonistic effect between calcium and potassium than between magnesium and potassium.