bigdog

I believe it has something to do with the production and translocation of Auxin. The apical meristem of the main pseudostem manufactures auxin, and translocates it to other parts of the plant (roots). As long as that apical meristem is still alive and growing, the plant will devote the majority of its energy to it. Any injury or death to the meristem will cause the suckers to start growing. I almost killed my 'Helen's Hybrid', and it sent up a pup. 'AeAe' doesn't sucker much, but try leaving it out to freeze once (um,er, I did that...). It will send up pups like crazy, as will most bananas.

One thing to try, if you want the pups to grow also, would be to feed your banana some cytokinins. Cytokinins are hormones that promote stem growth, whereas auxins promote root growth. There are commercially available synthetic compounds of both hormones. Do a Google search, and you will find some.

I could be mistaken about this...somebody please correct me if I am!