The lakatan plant was discovered to grow well if planted under the coconut tree, according to the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (DoST-PCARRD) in Laguna.

A PCARRD study on integrated banana and coconut plantation found that lakatan grown under coconut trees is beneficial to coconut farmers, as it provides extra source of food and income.

“In spite of the onslaught of El Niño, lakatan plants under coconuts demonstrated good fruiting performance,” said Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) consultant Sally Bulatao.

The lakatan grows well because coconut trees protect it from the heat, especially during the first stage of its growth.

The PCARRD said that the project will benefit more coconut farmers in the country.

The banana is a fruit that grows throughout the year. It can be harvested in eight to 12 months after planting.

Bananas grow in hanging clusters and can weigh from 30 to 50 kilograms.