Organic Banana (Musa Spp.) Cultivation Program with Ecoganic Products

Introduction: Organic Bananas as a Strategic Crop in Latin America and Europe

The organic banana (Musa spp.) is one of the tropical crops with the greatest economic and social impact worldwide. Its sustainable production is growing rapidly in countries such as Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, Mexico, and Spain (Canary Islands), where organic management offers access to demanding markets and greater profitability. In a context where residue-free foods with traceability and low environmental impact are prioritized, organic banana cultivation is positioned as a key alternative.

The use of certified products such as those from Ecoganic allows the implementation of organic fertilization strategies, physiological biostimulation, biological protection, and soil improvement, complying with standards such as Regulation (EU) 848/2018, NOP USDA, and standards such as GlobalG.A.P., ECOCERT, and Rainforest Alliance.

Recommendations from institutions such as the FAO on organic banana management and FiBL on agroecological systems are key to optimizing this production model.

Agronomic Conditions for Organic Bananas

• Humid tropical climate: 24–32 °C, without frosts.
• High potassium, calcium, magnesium, and nitrogen requirements.
• Cycle of 9–12 months, with staggered production.
• Requires aerated soils, rich in organic matter and with good drainage.
• Very sensitive to nematodes, fusarium wilt, sigatoka, thrips, and water stress.

Main Problems and Ecoganic Solutions

Nutritional and Management Program by Phenological Phases

Stage 1: Establishment and Vegetative Growth (0–4 Months)

Stage 2: Floral Emission and Bunch Formation (5–7 Months)

Stage 3: Fruit Fattening and Ripening (8–10 Months)

Stage 4: Post-harvest and Recovery (11–12 Months)

Comparison: Conventional Cultivation vs. Organic Cultivation with Ecoganic

Post-harvest and Local and International Marketing

• Harvest at commercial maturity point (bright green color).
• Chlorine-free washing, natural drying, and size selection.
• Use of ventilated recyclable boxes.
• Certifications for export: ECOCERT, GlobalG.A.P., Fair Trade, USDA Organic.
• Technical support to small producers for access to European niches.
• Compliance with requirements of the European market for organic fruits.

Expected Results with the Ecoganic Program