Bananas normally grow in the tropical regions of Asia, Africa and South America, where the fruit bananas in our supermarkets also come from. However, for several years now there have also been plants that can be cultivated in our garden or indoors.
Can you grow bananas in Germany?
Growing bananas in Germany is only possible with a lot of effort, as the plants needa lot of sun and warmth all year round. The exotic plants thrive best in awinter garden with a tropical climate, where with a bit of luck they will even develop fruit.
How to grow bananas?
In Germany, bananas should, if possible, be cultivated as houseplants or in a (heated) greenhouse. Banana plants cannot be cultivated in a (heated) greenhouse. hardy, with the exception of the Japanese fiber banana (Musa basjoo). However, this needs good winter protection during the cold season.
Large cultivation is not possible in this country because the plants rarely produce flowers and therefore fruit. Fruiting will only start if you do everything right when caring for it and the plant receives enough light and constant heat. Once your banana starts to bloom, simply continue to care for it as usual - it will only set fruit when it feels comfortable.
How much sun does a banana plant need?
In order to be successful in growing bananas, your banana plant needs a lot of light. It is therefore best to place them directly in front of a ground-level, south or west-facing window. Even outdoors, the plant should be in full sun if possible. In addition, the space - whether in the garden or in the room - should be free of drafts and have constant, warm temperatures all year round. In summer, potted specimens are allowed outside, but only after a certain period of getting used to them. The temperatures here should be over 20 °C.
How much water does a banana plant need?
The loose, well-drained and nutrient-rich substrate should always be kept slightly moist, especially during the summer months. Banana plants evaporate a lot of moisture through their large leaves, which must be returned. Water daily on hot days in summer, but in the winter months an interval of about once or twice a week is sufficient. Use soft, lukewarm water and avoid waterlogging.
Correct fertilization is equally important: Fertilize the banana once a week with citrus fertilizer (€6.00 on Amazon) or a universal organic-based fertilizer. In winter, one fertilizer application per month is sufficient.
How long does it take for a banana to bear fruit?
On a banana plantation, the plants only need about a year to produce fruit. With us you have to wait about four to five years until your plant – and just maybe! – blooms and bears fruit. It takes several months from the first fruit set to the fruit ripening. By the way, you can cut off the flower to speed up fruit ripening.
Tip
How often can you harvest bananas?
After the fruit ripens, all banana plants die. However, they form strong children beforehand, which you can separate and plant separately.
