LOCAL Extension Officers engaged in the banana industry are now empowered and able to conduct on- farm diagnosis and determine the pH and nutrient status of the soil.
The new technology was introduced and taught to extension officers employed with the Banana Productivity Improvement Project at a special training session conducted by Taiwanese Banana expert Tsung-Hsien Wu.
The officers who also received soil testing kits were taught the general principles of soil sampling, application of the various reagents and diagnosing and testing for soil acidity level and major elements.
The ability to conduct on-farm tests means that farmers no longer need to wait weeks for results after samples have been collected and sent to a laboratory for testing.
On-farm diagnosis allows farmers to take prompt action to address nutrient deficiencies by applying the correct fertilizer formula and in the right quantity thereby increasing productivity and returns on investment.
The training took place on March 20th, 2019 at La Caye, Dennery.