Hobby gardeners should definitely note that Central European frosts can be dangerous for this southern plant. Even the hardy banana tree doesn't survive our winters. Winter protection only requires a few simple steps in your home garden and can be implemented quickly.
Which banana varieties are hardy and how do you protect them in winter?
Winter-hardy banana varieties such as Musa Basjoo and Musa sikimensis (Red Tiger) can overwinter in Central European gardens, but require protection from frost. Methods include surrounding with a leaf or straw filled wire frame, covers or an electric warm air device at very low temperatures.
Method 1:
The banana tree gets winter-proof packaging. To do this, a wire frame is attached around the trunk. A diameter of around 50 centimeters is ideal.
This is then filled with leaves. Beech leaves are ideal for this as they only rot very slowly.
In the next step, a foil is placed over all the leaves and the frame. For excellent results, it is necessary to ventilate on frost-free days. This means the internal temperature always remains constant. This procedure also avoids unfavorable condensation.
Method 2:
The entire perennial is sawn off just above the ground. This is now followed by a blanket made of straw or leaves.
Styrofoam panels with tarpaulins can also be placed over them.
Important:
As soon as there are no more frosts forecast, the tarpaulins must be removed.
Disadvantage:
- Perennials only grow up to 3 meters high in spring.
- No harvest foreseeable
Alternative: winterproof with electric warm air device
Hobby gardeners can continue to play it safe by using an electric warm air device (€120.00 on Amazon). In winter temperatures from -6 degrees Celsius, this is used 2 to 3 times per night (15 minutes each).
Timers are suitable for regulating this regular heating. The plant also benefits from guaranteed winter-proof quarters in its favorite location. However, the top priority here is to avoid condensation.
Winter hardy banana varieties:
- Musa Basjoo
- Musa sikimensis (Red Tiger)
Tips & Tricks
Overwintering banana trees seems tedious. Nevertheless, the effort is worth it. So the banana ultimately delights as a meter-high specimen that also likes to bear fruit.
