Mary Nakirya
Source of picture: Organic Farming
Banana stems are known to keep for a long period of time. Some farmers have gone ahead to utilize these stemas and plant short root crops within these stems. This is done by diging small holes in the stem with the help of a knife or panga,add a little soil, and plant as required. This allows plant growth even during dry periods without irrigation. This type of planting also helps to minimise space and resources. It is affordable since banana stems are readly available to farmers in almost all African Countries.
Due to their water retaining capacity,banana stems once rotten can be used as fertilizers. This works even in plantation crops.It is important to cut them into pieces before using as a fertilizer so as they do not act as a hiding place for insects.
crops planted in banana stems
Collecting and Exchange of Local Agricultural Content 
Posted by Sari on February 5, 2014 at 9:09 am
that means there is no need of mud or soil or sand…banana stems are available in India also..vl try
Posted by Kegan DeCaul on July 10, 2015 at 3:05 pm
Awesome stuff – how long does the stem last before it needs to be replaced? do you still water them?
Posted by Andre Pattantyus on October 17, 2015 at 10:54 pm
so what types of food crops can be planted? it is not clear at all what would be a good candidate
Posted by SITARAM on February 1, 2016 at 1:29 pm
need some more detail
Posted by moana . waneka .kelly on April 10, 2016 at 11:49 pm
very nice method , hope to start my vey own.
Posted by Mohit Sahu on June 15, 2018 at 9:03 am
This is amazing !