Optimization of banana plantlets acclimatization by hydroponic cultivation

ABSTRACT: Acclimatization is the final phase of banana plantlet production by micropropagation. In this phase, plantlets are grown in a protected environment with high demand for water, fertilizer and labor, until reaching standard size quality required marketing. The aim study was to evaluate possibility reducing these costs duration acclimatization using hydroponic cultivation technique as compared conventional system. ‘Prata–Ana’ performance measured both systems under tropical summer winter conditions, based upon water nutrient use efficiency growing time plantlets. seasons, produced hydroponically presented faster growth shoot root systems. There reduction 12 days reach transplantation point, significant cost (fertilizers + water) improved space an expressive increase number per square meter.