lumptoast

Hi everyone!

I am new to the forum and new to growing bananas, so please excuse any misunderstandings I may have. I am very open to advice in all forms, and just really want to expand my knowledge. Just today I have received a my first banana plant in the mail. It is a Gros Michel (I hope) and it stands at less than a foot tall. I have found plenty of tips as to how to care for a banana plant in general, but not many resources on care during the plants infancy. I am located in Santa Cruz, California - Zone 9b. My plan as of now is to keep the plant in lower light / non direct sun exposure for a few days until it gets acclimated. I am keeping the soil moist and allowing it to drain through, but am remaining careful not to overwater, as the plant is still very small. I will slowly allow the plant a few hours outside in the sunlight each day, until I feel it is ready to spend the whole day outside in direct light. Before this point, I expect the roots to grow through the small pot it came in, and will transfer it to a much larger pot that it will grow in until it is large enough to plant in the ground. For re-potting I am planning on using a cactus/palm soil because it will allow for high drainage. I am trying to keep the pH somewhat acidic and have a tester for that. I plan on fertilizing once a month with a high nitrogen, medium phosphorous, high potassium fertilizer. One the plant is large enough, I will plant it in my backyard where it will receive full sunlight almost all day, but will have a few other fruit trees near it providing some shade. I will apply a layer of mulch around the area to prevent weed and grass growth. From there I will water around 1.5 gallons to the plant every day.

I really would like to hear if anyone thinks my plan is decent, or if there is anything i should change or do that I am not planning on. All thoughts welcome and appreciated. Thanks!!!

Hamakua

Your plan sounds fine, but unfortunately Gros Michel is a poor choice for our climate. Better performers are Namwa, Dwarf Brazilian, Blue Java and Orinoco.

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Currently Growing:
Blue Java, FHIA 01, Gros Michelle, Dwarf Orinoco, Maoli Ele Ele, Maoli Manini, Maoli Dwarf Kaualau, Putalinga Kula, Iholena Lele, Iholena Ula Ula, Iholena Iholena, Iholena Kapua, Unknown purple leafed Iholena, Tuu Ghia, Tagomor, Luba, Kokor, Vunumami, Hapai

lumptoast

Thanks for the tips! Appreciate it

bananimal

I'm in 9b in south Florida. What are your daily hi/lo temps?

Like you I'm in the middle of acclimatizing --- my new AeAe. Check my AeAe post for more details.

lumptoast

Highs seem to be hovering from low to mid 70s. Expected to stay there but jump into the 80s in the coming months. Lows are about 50 at night. I'll check out your AeAe post!

cincinnana

Congratulations on your new plant.
Your plan sounds great and your plant should do well.
You also might find this short article helpful from one of our forum members.
Richard's Guide for homegrown bananas

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