Looking to grow Banana Trees, or wanting some useful tips and tricks, we can help you with our simple blog
Choose a sheltered site, with the site sloping away slightly from the plant to avoid creating a frost pocket. Shelter from the wind is also essential to prevent leaves being shredded.
Plant in late spring, in a well-drained soil, enriched with organic matter (such as garden compost). Once plants are established, water and feed generously to get the best foliage.
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Smaller banana species make ideal container plants, which can be placed outdoors for the summer and brought indoors over winter. Grow in a loam-based compost, such as John Innes No. 3 with extra grit (30 percent by volume).
Container-grown plants need ample watering during spring and summer months. Feed at weekly intervals during the spring and summer with a general-purpose liquid feed, or mix a controlled-release fertiliser into compost when potting.
In autumn, reduce watering and feeding, watering only when on the dry side in winter.
Tender plants should be brought in when temperatures fall below 14ºC (57ºF) and overwintered in a frost-free greenhouse or conservatory.
Pot on in spring once a year, or every other year. Size and vigour increases with size of container. Increase pot size by 5-7.5cm (2-3in) initially. Once established in 30cm (10in) pots, increase size by 10-15cm (4-6 inches) every two to three years
Which ones can you get ?
While commonly known as the Japanese or hardy banana, Musa basjoo is now thought to originate from the Sichuan province of China. When temperatures warm in spring, Musa basjoo will grow quickly to produce large, exotic leaves and will appreciate regular watering and feeding to sustain this growth. Winter Hard, Fruit Guaranteed
Musa lasciocarpa – the Chinese yellow banana has typical banana leaves,
Musa × paradisiaca ‘Rajapuri’- a hardy cultivar that copes well with wind. With beautiful green leaves
Musa acuminata ‘Dwarf Cavendish’ – a smaller variety, growing to 2m, with large, slightly reddish leaves
Musa acuminata ‘Zebrina’ – a medium height cultivar that is good for containers, with highly ornamental, red-striped leaves.
Please see below videos and extra information
How to look after your banana plant at home
How to protect your banana plant in winter