Bananas are probably the worlds most famous tropical fruit. They are great providers of potassium and vitamins for many parts of the world. They are a tropical plant that need long hot periods to produce and ripen their fruits. The bananas grown today are essentially clones and have lost the ability to reproduce seed and rely solely on gardeners and human help to survive. They are also not really trees, with their stems being only closely matted leaves. If you are planning to grow bananas you will need to check the laws in your country. In many countries growing and planting of banana trees is controlled to prevent the spread of diseases.
Climate and Location Bananas need a warm, tropical or subtropical climate. Ideal temperatures are 26–30°C (78–86°F). Choose a sheltered, sunny spot protected from strong winds.
Soil Preparation Bananas grow best in rich, well-drained soil. Mix plenty of compost or well-rotted manure into the soil. Soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Planting Plant banana suckers or tissue-cultured plants rather than seeds. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Space plants about 2–3 meters (6–10 feet) apart. Water well after planting.
Watering Bananas need frequent watering to keep soil consistently moist. Avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Mulching helps retain moisture and warmth.
Feeding Bananas are heavy feeders. Apply compost regularly and feed with a high-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer. Feed every 2–4 weeks during active growth.
Care and Maintenance Remove excess suckers, leaving one strong follower per plant. Support the plant if fruit bunches become heavy. Remove dead or damaged leaves to improve air flow.
Cold Protection In cooler climates, grow bananas in containers or protect them in winter. Mulch heavily and wrap stems if temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F).
Know When They’re Ready Bananas are ready to harvest when the fruits are full-sized and the angles on the sides have rounded off. The peel changes from dark green to lighter green. The small flower tips at the end of each banana dry and fall off easily.
Timing Bananas are usually harvested 9–15 months after planting, depending on variety and climate. Harvest before the fruit fully ripens on the plant to prevent splitting and pest damage.
How to Harvest Bananas grow in large bunches, which can be heavy. Support the bunch with one hand or a rope. Cut the stalk cleanly with a sharp knife or machete. Carefully lower the bunch to the ground to avoid bruising.
After Harvest Care Remove the harvested stalk from the plant. Cut down the main stem, as it will not fruit again. Leave a healthy sucker to grow as the next plant.
Ripening Hang bananas in a warm, shaded place to ripen naturally. Bananas will turn yellow over several days. Do not refrigerate until fully ripe.
Proper harvesting ensures good fruit quality and allows the banana plant to continue producing through new shoots.
