Banana fibre paper technology: impact of repeated use on plant-parasitic nematodes and yield of potatoes and peas

Crop losses from plant-parasitic nematodes in sub-Saharan Africa necessitate sustainable, affordable, and smallholder-adapted management options. Synthetic nematicides are effective but difficult to apply safely. Using banana fibre paper (BFP) as a biodegradable carrier for low dose nematicide delivery offers a promising alternative. Our study tested the approach through consecutive potato (Solanum tuberosum) and pea (Pisum sativum) cropping at two locations in Kenya. Banana paper delivered biological (Trichoderma asperellum) and chemical (abamectin, fluopyram) nematicides. Nineteen nematode genera were recovered, including Globodera, Trichodorus, and Meloidogyne. Better nematode suppression was observed in the BFP + Abamectin, BFP + Fluopyram and BFP + Trichoderma treatments, relative to the control, albeit inconsistently. While BFP + Fluopyram and BFP + Trichoderma increased potato yields compared to the control, pea yields remained unchanged. Banana fibre paper technology presents an effective option for pesticide delivery, minimizing excessive use and potential contamination. The findings also offer a basis for training farmers in safe pesticide practices for nematode control.