Maintaining banana plants in the house and garden: It's that easy

Maintaining banana plants in the house and garden: It's that easy

Regular watering:

The banana tree originally comes from the East Asian region. He still loves the warm, humid climate of the tropics today.

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For this reason the following applies:

  • Spring / Summer: water and water regularly, soil must not dry out
  • Autumn / winter: water at longer intervals (winter rest)

Simply repot

The banana grows at an impressive rate. It has to be repotted every 1 to 2 years. In the beginning, 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: overwintering).

Remove unwanted guests of course

Basically, the banana plant is not very susceptible to disease. However, pests and co. Occur especially in winter if not properly cared for. Regular control of the plant can enable early action.

A remedy 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 the event of pest infestation:

  • cut back heavily
  • Dust open areas (interfaces) with ash
  • repot

Warning signs:

The infestation with spider mites or mealybugs can be an indication that the banana plant is too cool. It is also possible that the earth is too dry.

When the plant is sick ...

After a certain age, the mother plant dies. This is typical for this strain. Usually this 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 for a new plant to grow.

Colored leaves can also be a warning sign:

  • yellow leaves: lack of nutrients
  • dry, brown leaves: lack of water, insufficient humidity
  • Leaf loss: location too dark or too wet

Fertilize

Bananas need plenty of nutrients for their sustainable development. It is particularly helpful to work with liquid fertilizer during the high season.

In addition, ripe compost can be used just as well. This method has proven itself especially for outdoor locations.

Hobby gardeners should use 100% proper fertilization. The banana doesn't get too much fertilizer.

Winter successfully

Most banana trees do not survive central European frosts under any circumstances. That is why a winter-hard quarter is worthwhile. 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 basements is suitable. The banana tree needs constant temperatures. When a harvest is desired, sufficient light and moisture should be ensured during the winter break.

Tips

Before buying, it is worthwhile to focus on a future location for the banana. Some varieties can grow up to 4 or 6 meters tall with good care. Their leaves are impressive with a length of up to 150 centimeters.