Cool Bananas
Musa sapientum

Bananas are a range of varieties specially selected for growing in the home garden and for their ability to produce fruit under cool conditions.

 

 

Bananas require deep, rich soil which is well-drained, in a position which is in full sun for most of the day. A position close to a north facing wall is ideal. They require protection from cold winds and frost. Before planting, work the soil deeply over an area of about one square metre, incorporating lots of well-rotted compost or very old animal manure. After planting water thoroughly, apply a thick mulch to the worked area, keeping it away from contact with the stem of the plant. Cool Climate bananas are heavy feeders and as the plant grows apply fertiliser every six weeks to the soil surface above roots. Remove dead leaves regularly.

 

 

 

Suckers will appear from near the base of the main stem. Select one to be the next main stem and remove the others. It may take 2 or 3 years for the first fruit to be produced but after the fruit has been harvested the main stem should be cut down. The retained sucker will replace it as the main stem and the process is continued indefinitely or until the plant has moved so far from its original position that is has to be replanted.

HARVESTING: The fruit is ready to be harvested once the bananas loose their ridges, become more rounded, and when the black withered remains of the flowers at the end of the bananas are dry and crumbly. The fruit must be fully ripe before eating, indicated by the whole fruit, including the stem, turning yellow. Brown flecks on the skin also indicate maturity. The whole bunch can be cut off or just one 'hand' can be harvested as required, and the bananas can then be allowed to ripen fully indoors.