Caring for the banana tree is not very complicated. Nevertheless, it is advisable to pay attention to a few key points. In this way, the tropical plant thrives splendidly in home gardens or even in rooms.
How do you properly care for a banana plant?
Caring for a banana plant includes regular watering, repotting, occasional trimming, pest control and fertilizing. In winter, frost-free accommodation is necessary. Look for yellow or brown leaves, which may indicate nutrient or water deficiencies.
Watering regularly:
The banana tree originally comes from East Asia. Even today he loves the warm, humid climate of the tropics.
For this reason the following applies:
- Spring/summer: water and water regularly, soil must not dry out
- Autumn/Winter: water at larger intervals (hibernation)
Simply repot
The banana grows at an impressive pace. It needs to be repotted every 1 to 2 years. Initially, flower pots are suitable, later plant pots are used.
The right cut
The banana plant hardly needs to be cut. However, there are exceptions (for example: wintering).
Remove unwanted guests naturally
Basically, the banana plant is not very susceptible to diseases. However, pests etc. appear, especially in winter, if care is not taken properly. Regular inspection of the plant can enable early action.
Remedies can often be found in just a few steps. The banana plant usually recovers very quickly and rewards the attentive gardener with new shoots.
Emergency plan in case of pest infestation:
- cut back heavily
- dust open areas (interfaces) with ash
- repotting
Attention sign:
Infestation with spider mites or mealybugs can be an indication that the banana plant is too cool. It is also possible that the soil is too dry.
When the plant is sick
After a certain age, the mother plant dies. This is typical for this variety. This usually happens after the banana has produced numerous new shoots.
In this case, the leaves turn yellow and brown. Eventually they fail. The time is ripe to grow a new plant.
Colored leaves can also be a warning sign:
- yellow leaves: nutrient deficiency
- dry, brown leaves: lack of water, too low humidity
- Leaf loss: location too dark or too wet
Fertilize
Bananas need plenty of nutrients for their sustainable development. It is particularly helpful during the peak season to work with liquid fertilizer (€19.00 on Amazon).
In addition, mature compost can also be used. This method has proven particularly useful for outdoor locations.
Hobby gardeners should ensure 100% proper fertilization. The banana doesn't get too much fertilizer.
Successful wintering
Most banana trees do not survive Central European frosts under any circumstances. That's why winter-hardy accommodation is worth it. There are two possibilities. On the one hand, the gardener can pack the trunk for winter. This way no frost can penetrate.
Alternatively, overwintering in bright rooms or dark cellars is suitable. The banana tree needs constant temperatures. If a harvest is desired, care should be taken to ensure sufficient light and moisture during the winter break.
Tip
It is worth considering a future location for the banana before you buy it. Some varieties can grow up to 4 or 6 meters tall if well cared for. Their leaves then impress with a length of up to 150 centimeters.