Bananas, which are known botanically as Musa spp., are a type of fruit that can easily be grown at home. Continue reading to learn the basics of growing bananas as well as common mistakes to avoid along the way.
Best Time to Plant Bananas
This will depend largely on your local climate, but as a rule of thumb, begin to plant the banana seeds plant banana suckers or tissue-cultured plants anytime. This is the best time to ensure that the seedlings survive the weather.
To check when bananas are most likely to thrive in your area, see the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live outside the US, do a quick search for ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’.
How to Plant Bananas the Right Way
There are a number of things to consider that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes of growing bananas in your home garden.
Often overlooked, your soil can have a huge impact on how well your bananas grow. Generally, your soil should be well-drained and fertile. Soil PH levels should be around 5.5 to 7.0.
20-30 feet apart in rows 20-30 feet apart, depending on the rootstock. 6-8 feet apart in rows 6-8 feet apart. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about 24-36″. For each plant, be sure to sow at least a few seeds to ensure that at least one of them will germinate.
Begin thinning your banana seedlings plant bananas at least 6-8 feet apart.
How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Bananas
The amount of sunlight is another key to a successful harvest. Too much sunlight will dry out your bananas. Not enough sunlight will stunt your its growth or even kill it.
Ideally, your bananas should be getting full sun, which means as much sunlight as you can possibly give it, or at least 6 hours or more.
How Much to Water Bananas
As you’ve figured by now, a lot can have an impact on how well your bananas do, and the amount of water is no different.
Ideally, the soil should be damp to touch; not soggy or bone dry. If the leaves on your bananas begin to change colors or start to look droopy, you need to adjust how much water you’re giving it.
Unfortunately, if you give it too much or too little water, you can kill it, so it’s best to just keep an eye on it and water as needed.
How Long Does it Take Bananas to Germinate and Grow?
Now the fun part begins and you get to watch your bananas grow.
It takes approximately plants do not need to germinate to germinate, and a total of 9-12 months for fruit production from seed to harvest.
When to Harvest Bananas
The best time to harvest your bananas is when bananas are fully developed, plump, and the flower end is slightly dry.
Bananas can grow up to about varies by variety, typically 2-8″ length fruit.
What Can Bananas Be Used For?
Food Use: great for snacking, smoothies, and baking.
Flavor Profile: varies by variety, from sweet to starchy and creamy to firm.
Can Bananas Grow in Pots and Containers?
Yes, you can plant dwarf varieties in 24-36″ containers. This can help control weeds and keep your plant from growing out of control.
It also gives you the flexibility to move your bananas around if you need to adjust sunlight or bring it indoors to avoid harsh weather conditions.
Are Bananas Safe for Bees?
Yes, bananas are safe for bees.
According to GreenPeace.org, bees pollinate human food crops that make up about 90% of the world’s nutrition.
Given their importance in our ecosystem and food supply, I feel it is important to note that growing bananas is bee-friendly.
