In the winter of 1999, before the winter solstice, banana farming in Dongguan City faced severe losses due to a cold snap. Many banana farms were almost completely destroyed, leading to significant financial setbacks for local farmers. However, He Jinbo, a professional farmer from Shatian Town, managed to achieve a successful harvest on his 37-acre banana plantation. His farm yielded 3,088 kilograms per mu, generating a total value of 185,000 yuan and a net income of 148,000 yuan. His success was based on several key practices that helped him overcome the challenges of climate and market fluctuations.
First, he focused on planting high-quality banana varieties. Over the past five years, he has consistently cultivated Brazil bananas, known for their thick pseudostems, tall and upright leaves, long fruit clusters, and superior yield. These bananas have a finger length of 23 to 26 cm and can produce between 20 to 40 kg per plant, making them ideal for both quality and productivity.
Second, He carefully timed his planting to align with market demand. By analyzing the banana market over the years, he found that prices peaked just before and after the Chinese New Year. To capitalize on this, he adjusted his planting schedule, choosing summer planting and harvesting in the following September. This allowed him to sell bananas at higher prices—around 125 yuan per 50 kg, which could reach up to 90 yuan during peak times.
Third, he paid close attention to the flowering stage. During the flower bud differentiation period, applying the right fertilizer is essential for ensuring healthy growth and high yields. When the banana plants had 32 to 36 leaves, he began applying medium-term fertilizer 50 to 70 days before flowering. He used a mix of urea, superphosphate, and bio-potash, applying it every 7 to 12 days, with about 7.5 kg of urea, 10 kg of superphosphate, and 5 kg of bio-potash per mu.
Fourth, he improved his planting methods by implementing a rotational system. He planted summer bananas in rows spaced 3.2 meters apart, with 2 meters between each plant, resulting in 103 plants per mu. He alternated planting locations each year, which helped improve soil structure and nutrient availability. Additionally, the previous year’s banana plants provided shade for new seedlings, protecting them from intense sunlight and promoting better early growth.
Lastly, he used protective sprays during the flowering and fruiting stages. When the seventh or eighth banana bunches appeared, he applied fruit protection agents such as "Banana Hypertrophy Fruit Treasure" and "Fullness Agent." After seven days, he sprayed insecticides and fungicides like Dimethoate, Yunda 120, and Big Brother to protect the young fruits from pests and diseases, ultimately improving fruit quality and marketability.
Through these well-planned strategies, He Jinbo not only survived the harsh winter of 1999 but also turned his farm into a profitable and sustainable operation. His experience serves as a valuable lesson for other banana farmers looking to adapt to changing conditions and maximize their returns.
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