The effect of three shade levels on morphology, growth and productivit
y of 'Grand Nain' (AAA) bananas during their first and second producti
on cycles was studied in the Jordan Valley, Israel. In vitro propagate
d plants that were planted in the field in April 1990 were shaded with
black saran screens of different densities, installed above the canop
y level. The resultant photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) was r
educed to 80%, 60% or 30% of the unshaded control. Although only the h
eaviest shade affected plant vegetative growth in the first cycle, bun
ch weight was reduced by 7% and 32% under medium and heavy shade, resp
ectively. A highly significant effect on vegetative growth and product
ion was observed during the second cycle. Flowering date was delayed b
y 6 days, 9 days and 15 days, and bunch weight was reduced by 8%, 21%
and 55% under light, medium and heavy shade, respectively. Yield was r
educed by all levels of shade, owing to the combined effect of reduced
bunch weight and a lower stand. Shading reduced the rate of leaf emer
gence, leaf and foliage area, plant height and pseudostem circumferenc
e. The leaves had thinner laminae, with a reduced number of stomata an
d higher chlorophyll content. Our observations indicate a significant
effect of long-term shade on bananas, and the utilization of high leve
ls of PPFD by the banana plant.