CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Banana has been recorded as one of world’s most important fruits consumed intensively

throughout the tropics where it is grown (Dela Torre and Tangonan, 2008). It is popular because

of its flavour, food value, and availability at all times of the year and considered as one of the

major crops in the Philippines. However, banana plants have been infected by plant pathogens.

At present, numerous studies have developed solutions to these plant problems which are the

primary concern for farmers and producers.

On the other hand, agriculture still plays a dominant role in the Philippine economy as

70% of the country’s population is rural and two-thirds of these depend on farming for their

livelihood (Venkataramani, 2000). Nowadays, banana plantations are affected by the many

diseases (Tangonan, 1999). One these is the fusarium wilt disease caused by Fusarium

oxysporum which caused the banana to change its color and cause great losses to banana

production when affected.

Duranta (Duranta erecta) or Golden dewdrop is considered as one of the inhabit plants

in the world. It is found in the tropical regions like the Philippines. The leaves contain a

substance called saponin which can help to prevent the fusarium in the banana (Musa

balbisiana).