A multi-objective model exploration of banana-canopy management and nutrient input scenarios for optimal banana-legume intercrop performance

This study used the multi-objective optimization FarmDESIGN model to exlpore for optimal banana-canopy management and nutrient input scenarios for a banana-bush bean intensification system.
Severe leaf pruning was confirmed to negatively impact on farm profitability, while the more profitable un-pruned crop options were unsustainable without external nutrient inputs. Thus, investments in external inputs are crucial for a sustainable banana-intercrop system. The FarmDESIGN model made the trade-offs and synergies in this complex intercrop system explicit, thus was also helpful for field-level decision making.