Red Banana Trees

Growing Environment

• Banana trees need warm growing environments in order to thrive. Placing them next to a building, asphalt or cement walkways and driveways will give them more warmth. The chosen location should also be in full sun and have consistently moist, well-drained soil. The pH of the soil needs to be between 5.5 to 6.5. Have your local county extension office conduct a soil analysis to verify the pH level and amend the soil, according to the results. Also mix in a layer of composted organic matter with the native soil for nutrients and drainage.

Water

• Water your red banana trees frequently and deeply during the growing season, especially during the hot summer months. The huge leaves of the red banana tree drink up plenty of water, plus the soil needs to stay moist. Banana trees have shallow roots so apply a 3-inch layer of mulch around the tree to retain moisture, improve any drainage issues and prevent weeds. Monitor the moistness of the soil regularly and water when dry.

Feeding Schedule

• Red banana trees are heavy feeders and require a balanced fertilizer of 8-10-8 during the growing season. Apply 2 lbs. of fertilizer per month to mature red banana trees and 1/2-pound to newly planted or young trees. Beginning a few inches away from the trunk of the tree, sprinkle the fertilizer under the canopy, extending 4 to 8 feet out in a circle. Water deeply to allow the nutrients to seep down into the roots without burning them.

Winter Protection

• A red banana tree's leaves are frost-sensitive and may not survive if temperatures drop below 28 degrees Fahrenheit for an extended period of time. Banana trees need at least a year of frost-free weather to produce a flower stalk and eight months to produce fruit. Below freezing temperatures can kill the foliage. The rhizome that's underground can survive as long as the temperature doesn't drop below 22 degrees. Protect the tree from frost and low temperatures by wrapping the trunk with a blanket or placing a tarp or sheeting over the entire tree.