How to Care for a Banana Tree That Has Been in a Cold Garage

Banana trees are tropical plants that many U.S. gardeners grow either for fruit or simply for landscape appeal. Although there are cold-hardy banana tree varieties, most die when exposed to freezing temperatures. For this reason, many gardeners dig up the plants in the fall and store them in the garage over the winter. While garages provide suitable storage areas during dormancy, you must replant the tree outdoors as soon as possible to prevent it from dying. Wait to replant the tree until at least mid-March, or until all threats of frost have passed for the year.

Wheelbarrow (optional)
Shovel
4- to 5-foot-long wooden stakes
Hammer
Nylon string or tree tape
Water

Instructions

- 1
  Pick up the banana tree by the root ball and carry it outdoors. If the tree is large or heavy, place it into a wheelbarrow for easier transport.
- 2
  Locate a planting site with dark, rich soil and full sunlight exposure. The ground should be evenly moist, but not oversaturated or soggy.
- 3
  Dig a hole in the soil using a shovel, making it the same depth and width as the root ball on the tree.
- 4
  Pick the banana tree up by the roots again and gently place them into the center of the hole. Back-fill the hole with the soil, and pat it down gently but do not pack it.
- 5
  Insert two 4- to 5-foot long wooden stakes into the ground on either side of the tree using a hammer. Place the stakes at least 6 inches back from the root ball.
- 6
  Wrap nylon string or tree tape around the trunk of the banana tree and tie each piece in a secure knot behind the stakes. Leave the stakes in place for at least three to four weeks until the tree roots grip the soil firmly.
- 7
  Water the soil well after replanting, until it is damp to the same depth as the hole that you dug for the roots.

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