Effect of 1, 2-dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP) on the nutrient uptake and growth of banana plants (Musa acuminata Colla) grown in a vermiculite medium

Authors

  • A.P. Elliott Windward Islands Banana Growers Association (WINBAN), Research and Development Division, P.O. Box 115, St. Lucia, West Indies
  • J.E. Edmunds Windward Islands Banana Growers Association (WINBAN), Research and Development Division, P.O. Box 115, St. Lucia, West Indies

Abstract

Concentration of 5, 10, 20, 80, 320 and 1280 p.p.m. of 1,2-dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP) were applied to banana plants growing in a vermiculite medium supplied with a nutrient solution. After four weeks, plant heights were significantly increased by concentrations of 10 and 20 p.p.m. DBCP. Compared with controls, internode lengths were significantly higher (P= 0·05) in plants treated with 10 p.p.m. DBCP. Uptake of S in plants was significantly increased by concentrations of 5, 10, 20 and 80 p.p.m. DBCP. The uptake of N, P, K, Ca and Mg were significantly lower (P=0·05) in plants treated with 1280 p.p.m. DBCP.

Issue

Section

Research Papers