The Indian banana or Pawpaw (bot. Asimina triloba) has long been popular in Canada and the USA, but is still largely unknown in Germany. The aromatic annon plant definitely deserves attention. With our tips you can even help the delicious fruits ripen.
How and where can Indian bananas ripen?
Indian bananas ripen quite well, but only if they are not harvested too unripe. The peel should at least start to change color, then you can let the fruit ripen at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for about three weeks.
Can Indian bananas be harvested ripe?
Ideally, Indian bananas areharvested when ripe At room temperature, the fruits only last a few days to a maximum of a week. However, the peel turns brown quite quickly. But this has no effect on the taste, as the peel is usually not eaten anyway. The creamy pulp is easy to scoop out.
When is harvest time for Indian bananas?
The ripening period of Indian bananas is quite long. As a rule, the fruits are not harvested untilfrom mid-September. Late varieties, such as Sunflower, are not ripe until October. Since not all fruits reach harvest maturity at the same time, you should check the plant regularly and spread the harvest over several days.
What should I pay attention to when ripening Indian bananas?
The ripe fruits of the Indian banana arequite delicateandspoil quicklyTherefore, be sure to avoid pressure points on the shell. If you harvest your Indian banana half-ripe, you can store the fruits in the refrigerator for up to four weeks, where they will then ripen. If it is possible for you, then you would prefer to ripen at room temperature because of the cooling the aroma fades. Incidentally, this can also happen when the plant ripens if you live in a cool area, autumn comes quite early and/or you have planted a very late variety.
Why am I waiting in vain for fruit from my Indian banana?
Most types of Indian banana arenot self-pollinating, so they need another plant or hand pollination in order to bear fruit at all. All that remains is the flower your Indian banana, then you should research the cause and check the location and care. Although the hardy plant also thrives in partial shade, it prefers full sun when the fruit is ripening.
Tip
A lot of patience is required until the first harvest
You have to be patient until your Indian banana shows its first fruits. It takes up to ten years from sowing to the first flowering. The Indian banana grows slowly. If you have bought a strong young plant, the waiting time will be shortened to around three to four years.
