Plant care guide - Banana plants

Banana plants need bright light to thrive; insufficient light leads to slow growth and smaller leaves.

• Place near a south or west window with filtered sun.
• Give several hours of morning or late-afternoon sun if possible.

• Do not keep it in low light (growth weakens and leaves stay small).

Musa are thirsty plants and like soil that stays evenly moist, but they hate waterlogging.

• Keep the soil evenly moist
• Water thoroughly until excess drains away.
• Use rainwater if possible; tap water is fine if it is not too hard.
• Reduce watering slightly in winter, but never let the soil fully dry out.

• Do not let the pot sit in waterlogged soil.

Banana plants thrive in high humidity; dry air causes crispy leaf edges. They also prefer warm temperatures and dislike cold and drafts.

• Aim for 60 percent humidity or higher.
• Use a humidifier or pebble tray.
• Mist occasionally with distilled water as extra support.
• Use naturally steamy rooms like bathrooms or kitchens if the light is good.
• Keep temperatures between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius.
• Keep it away from drafts from windows or doors.

• Do not rely on misting as the only humidity solution.
• Do not let temperatures fall below 15 degrees Celsius.

Feed regularly in the growing season for strong, fast growth.

• Feed every 2 weeks in spring and summer with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer.

• Do not fertilize in autumn and winter (pause feeding).

Banana plants grow fast and need a rich but well-draining mix.

• Use a peat-free, rich, well-draining houseplant mix with compost or perlite added.
• Repot annually in spring.
• Always use pots with drainage holes.

• Do not use a pot without drainage holes.