Proper postharvest handling

Under the weight of a maturing banana bunch, stems are likely to break under the weight of heavy bunches. Although this may be more common among tall cultivars than shorter ones, it is important to provide support to banana stems when bearing fruits. As the weight of the bunch increases, the pseudostem should be supported with a wooden pole to prevent it from breaking under the weight of the fruit. Forked poles are normally used to keep the stems upright and support the weight of the bunch.

Bananas are harvested throughout the year. With a good desuckering plan, it is possible for a farmer to harvest 3 to 4 times a year from each stool, depending on the variety and cultivar of the banana. Whilst still green, the fruits have a distinctly edged appearance, which gradually becomes almost round as they ripen. The cooking bananas are harvested green and dessert bananas should also preferably be harvested while still green. Normally the duration of transport to the market determines in which stage of ripeness the fruit should be picked.

While harvesting, care should be taken to see that bunches do not fall to the ground. Hitting the ground causes bruises which reduce the quality and can be starting points for rotting. Harvested bunches should be kept under the shade and should not be heaped together without sufficient ventilation. Piling up bananas without good air flow quickens ripening.