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Banana Tree Care

Grow this plant in a location where it will be sheltered from the wind as it is very susceptible to damaged leaves. Banana plant leaves are huge—depending on the variety, they can be up to 2 feet wide and 9 feet long. Banana plants have a generally irregular shape.

Bananas form in late summer in a cluster called a hand. Not all forms are edible; some may be tasty but have large seeds making the ratio of edible fruit to seeds very small and not worth the effort. These late summer fruits begin to ripen the following March. When the fruit is green but plumped up, it is cut off the stalk and placed in a cool, dry space. Stalks can range in sizes from 2.5 feet to 12 feet long. Fruit colors can be yellow, pink, green, or red. The most common type that produces edible fruit is the Cavendish variety.

banana leaf tree

 The Spruce / Phoebe Cheong

banana tree

 

banana leaf closeup

Light

Most types of bananas plants prefer full sun. Some variegated varieties can scorch easily and will do better in partial shade.

Soil

The soil should be well-drained, deep, and organically amended. Slightly acidic soil (5.5 to 6.5 pH) is preferred.

Water

Since banana trees are tropical and originate in rain forests, they need a lot of water and plenty of moisture in the air. They do best when planted in groups rather than as single specimens. Planting close together helps retain moisture in the leaves. Provide 1 or 2 inches of water weekly and check frequently to make certain the soil stays evenly moist. Avoid over-watering which can cause root rot. The soil should be moist but not soggy at all times, if possible.

Temperature and Humidity

Bananas thrive in warm, humid conditions, but protect plants against temperature extremes as much as possible. Even very hardy, cold tolerant banana plants like consistent temperatures ranging between 75 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

When temperatures drop, growth slows down, and very cold temperatures cause plants to die back. To guard against temperature extremes, plant in sheltered locations. Provide more protection by bringing your plants indoors or winterize your plant when cold weather hits.