Banana plants are now available in almost every garden store. The exotic plants are not only suitable as indoor or winter garden plants, but - depending on the type and variety - can even be cultivated on the balcony or planted in the garden.
Can you grow bananas on the balcony?
In fact, you can grow bananas on the balcony, but onlyduring the warm summer monthsEven “hardy” varieties should be kept warm in the cold winter monthswintered warmlybecome. With a bit of luck and good care, your banana plant will even develop flowers and fruit after a few years.
Can a banana plant grow on the balcony?
You can grow bananas on the balcony, but only during the summer and if there is a suitable location. Even specimens sold as “hardy” are not suitable for overwintering outdoors if they are kept in a pot. The place on the balcony is right for your plant if these requirements are met:
- bright location
- Temperatures of at least 20 °C
- no continuous rain
- sufficient space
- no drafts, protected location
Otherwise, care for the plant in the apartment or winter garden all year round with as much light as possible and a humidity of at least 50 percent.
How much sun does a banana plant need on the balcony?
Bananas need a lot of sun and warmth even on the balcony, although you should avoid a location that is too sunny: In the summer months, intense sunlight can easily cause sunburn on the large leaves. Therefore, shading during lunchtime often makes sense. The temperatures should also be more than 20 °C so that the perennial feels comfortable. The tropical plant, on the other hand, doesn't like constant rain, wind and drafts and is better off indoors.
How do you properly care for the banana on the balcony?
Water the banana plant on the balcony regularly - if possible every day on hot days, as it evaporates a lot of water through its large leaves. The substrate – loose, well-drained and nutrient-rich – must not dry out, but must not be too wet either. The pot should therefore have several drainage holes through which excess irrigation water can be drained away. Fertilize the banana once a week between April and October with citrus or universal fertilizer, preferably organic. In winter, however, a monthly fertilizer application is sufficient.
Is it possible to overwinter the banana on the balcony?
Bananas cannot be overwintered on the balcony. Instead, bring the plant into the house or apartment and care for it
- approx. 20 °C constant temperature
- humidity of at least 50 percent
- sufficient water and fertilizer (less than in summer!)
- sufficient light
It is best to place the plant in front of a floor-to-ceiling window facing south or west. When ventilating, make sure that the banana does not get any frosty air or drafts. As soon as it is warm enough next spring, the plant can be outdoors again.
Tip
How long does it take for a banana to bear fruit?
With good care and a bit of luck, your banana plant will start to bloom and bear fruit after four to five years at the earliest. However, this rarely happens in Germany! However, if you are lucky enough, do not change anything about the care of the plant!
