Question
Hi:
I have a dwarf banana tree, I got it about 6 months ago as a bare root plant. The pot is 12 in. diameter, 10 in. deep, plant size is 22 in. high & has 9 full leaves with one new one on it's way.  It gets watered about once every4 days, yes I do use city water.  The problem is: starting from the bottom the fourth, eighth & ninth leaves are getting black spots on them.  Four of the leaves are getting a yellow tint around the edges.  Oh, I forgot, it sits on the floor near a southern window.  What is the problem with it?

Answer
Tim,

The chlorine and flouride in the city water is a problem and can cause the black spots you describe. You need to let the water sit in an open bucket for 48 hours so the chlorine and flouride evaporates before you use it to water the banana.  Also the banana should be sitting next to the south facing window and the drapes or mini blinds should be open all day so the plant gets full sun from sunrise to sunset. I suspect that you are also overwatering it. In nature in the tropical areas winter is the dryer time of year. So make sure it gets as much sun as possible, leave the water sit for 48 hours and cut back on the water and your banana should improve. Good luck.

Darlene