THE BANANA ] 427 



fruited, cutting down the stem about 10 c.m. below the 

 base of the leaf sheaths, and cutting off the leaf sheaths 

 just above their base, and then with a cross cut the base 

 or rootstock is divided into four parts, reserving at least 

 one likely bud for each part. These pieces or truncheons 

 are allowed to remain in the shade for two or three days, 

 so that the wound may dry, and then they are planted. 



The suckers are planted at a depth of 15 to 20 c.m., 

 and the truncheons are planted at the same depth, with 

 their buds directed upwards, and are watered lightly 

 every other day or twice a week until the young plant 

 begins to grow, and it is necessary that the wound of the 

 sucker or of the truncheon be not placed in contact with 

 the fresh manure of the soil, in order to prevent the 

 possibility of rot. 



Suckers or truncheons of the Chinese banana are 

 planted from two to two and a half metres apart, but the 

 tall bananas, especially the large growing sorts, are 

 planted at a greater distance up-to four metres apart or 

 more. The distance between the rows should be from 

 four to six metres, according to the expected develop- 

 ment of the plant and its suckers. In about three weeks 

 the newly planted truncheons or suckers will have 

 resumed active growth, and should be watered more 

 abundantly at first twice a week, and then once a week, 

 increasing gradually the trough around the plant to suit 

 its development. 



CULTIVATION. Having made the selection as to the 

 sort which is to be planted, the planter should limit his 

 attention to that sort only, so that the produce may be 

 of uniform quality, which is an essential condition for 

 success. The best period for planting is from the 

 beginning of May to the middle of June, when the plant 

 has resumed active growth, and there is yet a long 

 si retch of warm weather for the plant to become pro- 

 . perly established before winter. Towards the end of the 



