Question
I recently bought a potted banana plant. Im going to keep it an indoor plant. If you can give me as much info on taking care of this plant that would be great. I do plan on take it out on the porch for next summer then bring it back indoors.

Thank you,

Answer
Hi Judy,

Banana or Musaceae is a large family of plants that includes banana (Musa nana), bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae), travelers tree (Ravenela madagascariensis), and various types of Heliconia.

In general, all of these plants require a lot of direct sunlight indoors. Without this light they are inevitably doomed. They need a well-drained soil mix and they use a lot of water when they are healthy and in good light. Good water and light will minimize, but not eliminate, leaf browning. Leaves on these plants tear easily and on purpose so that the wind can blow through in their natural environment. Spider mites, mealy bug and scale are common problems with these rather difficult plants.

The banana requires warm temperatures above 60 degrees at all times and can tolerate high temps if the humidity is high. Keep the soil evenly moist in the summer and allow it to dry somewhat more in the winter. They die after flowering/fruiting, although they send up side shoots from the roots that can be repotted. Use a sharp knife to slice through part of the root to separate the side shoot from the mother plant. High humidity helps a lot.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail some photos to my address below, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

If this information has been helpful, please click the Rate Volunteer bar below and enter a rating and nomination for me. I am a volunteer on this site so Ratings are the only compensation I receive for answering plant questions.
           
Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com
  
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]