Distribution and importance -- Taxonomic classification, cultivars and breeding -- Morphological characteristics and plant development -- Climatic requirements and problems -- Phenological and physiological responses -- Site selection, soil requirements and soil preparation -- Establishing a plantation -- Systems of cultivating bananas and product certifications -- Nutritional requirements -- Water requirements and irrigation -- Horticultural management -- Diseases -- Pests -- Harvesting and fruit handling -- Ripening, biochemistry and uses