Soil quality in banana cultivation: assessment, challenges and opportunities

Abstract

Introduction. Bananas are one of the most important fruits globally, both in terms of export and consumption. They occupy approximately 12 million hectares of tropical and subtropical soils worldwide. Scientific evidence highlights the degradation of soil quality in banana production systems, making soil management a critical challenge for the sustainability of this activity. Objective. To analyze and synthesize the available studies on soil quality, indicators, and methodologies used for its evaluation in banana production systems. Development. A bibliographic review of scientific articles related to soil quality in banana cultivation was conducted, focusing on Costa Rica and other banana-producing countries. This review outlines the context and challenges of banana production, describes the concept of soil quality and its relationship with productivity and sustainability, and highlights evidence of soil degradation in banana plantations. Furthermore, it discusses key methodologies and the specific characteristics of existing research in banana production systems in Costa Rica and worldwide. Finally, it identifies opportunities for future evaluations and research on soil quality in banana cultivation. Conclusions. Soil quality is essential for the sustainability and productivity of banana cultivation, yet intensive monoculture practices have led to its degradation. Current methodologies integrate chemical, physical, and biological indicators, but significant gaps remain in the comprehensive evaluation of monoculture effects. The standardization of methodologies and the development of regional indices are critical to improving the management and sustainability of banana soils in Costa Rica.