Comparison of the Effectiveness of Various Growing Media in Banana (Musa accuminata) Seed Germination

Abstract

Banana is a fruit plant with numerous benefits and is considered one of the significant agricultural commodities in the world and in Indonesia. Typically, banana propagation is carried out through vegetative means using offshoots. However, this method comes with certain limitations, including challenges in generating a large number of uniform seedlings and the risk of disease contamination. Propagating bananas through seeds could offer a potential solution to address these issues. Banana seeds play a critical role in the reproduction and formation of new plants. This research aims to assess the impact of various growing media and identify an effective and efficient method for banana seed germination. The selected growing media encompass rockwool, Charcoal Husk, sand, cocopeat, farmer’s planting media, a 1:1 mixture of Manure Compost and Soil, and Moss Sphagnum media, all on a greenhouse scale. The results indicate that Rockwool achieved the highest germination rate at 71.0%, followed by Moss Sphagnum media (66.33%), and cocopeat (64.67%). Conversely, sand, charcoal husk, farmer’s planting media, and manure compost + soil exhibited lower germination rates. Each of these media options, including compost + soil, has its unique advantages and drawbacks. Moss Sphagnum media, for instance, features numerous cavities that enable plant roots to grow freely and effectively absorb and retain water. This study offers valuable guidance to farmers in selecting appropriate growing media to enhance banana seed germination, potentially benefiting agricultural development.