An ornamental banana's life clock ticks faster than some other houseplants. After six to eight years, the tropical plant blooms beautifully, only to wither completely soon afterwards. But before the end comes, the Ensete sprouts a few children in time.
How do I propagate ornamental banana offshoots?
To successfully propagate ornamental banana cuttings, separate them from the mother plant in spring when they reach at least a third of the mother plant's height, have two large leaves and their own roots. Then plant the children in fresh substrate and care for them optimally for he althy growth.
Kindel as a mini offspring
Every ornamental banana that grows vigorously with good care will sprout several children in the course of its life. These are small side shoots that look similar to the mother plant, but are just smaller. They can be separated from the mother plant to lead an independent existence.
Tip
If you do not want to use the children for propagation, it is better to separate them early and dispose of them. Otherwise you will deprive the mother plant of a lot of energy.
Separate from the mother plant in spring
In the spring, after overwintering and repotting, you can use the Kindel for propagation. But first you have to carefully check whether the child can survive without the mother plant. The following criteria should be met:
- The offshoot is at least a third as high as the mother plant
- has at least two large leaves
- already has its own roots
Tip
Whether a cutting has formed roots or not is not readily apparent. Carefully dig some earth around it and you will soon have clarity.
How to separate the offshoots
- Take the mother plant and its offshoots out of the pot.
- Carefully shake off substrate to expose the joint.
- Cut the connection to the nut with a sharp knife. You should have cleaned this thoroughly beforehand and disinfected it with alcohol or heat.
- Disinfect the open interfaces with charcoal powder.
- Put the mother plant back in the pot and fill the spaces with fresh substrate.
- Water the plant well afterwards.
Plant Kindel immediately
The children already have roots and can immediately conquer their new potted home with them. To ensure that they grow well and develop well, please note the following points:
- Always keep the substrate slightly moist
- put a plastic bag over the plant
- but ventilate these daily
- Keep the pot warm at least 25 °C
- If a new leaf tip appears, the cover can be removed
- do not place in full sun in the first year of life
