Banana Propagated by Division

Choosing a Sucker for Propagation

• Three types of suckers grow in the banana mat. The best type of sucker for propagation is the sword sucker. Look for large suckers with narrow leaves. Suckers with broad leaves grow into weak plants.

Harvesting a Sucker for Propagation

• Wait until the banana clump is well established with at least three or four banana plants in the mat before removing suckers for planting. Suckers are ready to harvest for propagation when the stem is 2 to 6 inches in diameter and at least 3 feet tall. Dig the sucker up, cutting it away from the mother plant. Cut off the largest leaves at ground level, leaving the smallest, innermost leaves.

When to Propagate

• Plant banana suckers in the spring or summer. If an irrigation system is available, early spring is best; otherwise, wait for the rainy season to begin. Adequate moisture is necessary to the survival of the new plant.

Planting a Banana Sucker

• Dig a hole approximately 3 feet wide by 2 feet deep and mix organic compost into the soil. Place the sucker in the hole at the depth it originally grew at, and backfill with soil. Water immediately and apply 3 to 4 inches of organic mulch to help conserve water and control weeds. Water the newly planted banana regularly to keep the soil moist.