Light. Plant in full sun for best growth and fruit. Choose the warmest spot that does not flood, sheltered from wind.
Water. Bananas need about 1–1.5 inches of water a week, especially in dry weather. Avoid soggy soil and timer-run sprinklers, which cause root rot.
Soil and feeding. Fertilize every 2 months with a high-potash fertilizer containing magnesium. Mulch 2–6 inches deep with Wood Mulch to hold moisture.
Size. Grows to about 10 ft.
Pruning. Keep 3–4 stalks of different ages and cut extra suckers. Each stalk fruits once; cut it down after harvest.
Problems to watch. Watch for banana weevils at the stalk base, nematodes and Sigatoka leaf spot. Plantains resist Panama disease.
Good to know. Temperatures at or below 32°F damage it, but it regrows from the base. Plantains are always cooked before eating.
Sources: UF/IFAS EDIS HS10/MG040: Banana Growing in the Florida Home Landscape · UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Bananas
