Banana plant care: watering, light and repotting
Also called dwarf banana, musa · Musa acuminata · Musaceae family
7 d in winter
How often to water the banana plant?
Allow about 3 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 7 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Hungry for water, fertiliser and light. Its leaves tear naturally, which isn't a problem.
Misting every 3 days helps keep the air humid around its leaves, especially in winter when central heating dries the house out.
What light does it need?
The banana plant loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every year, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 2 weeks is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 3–6 ft (1–2 m).
Safe for cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA.
Common problems
Brown leaf edges
Cause: Dry air or thirst. What to do: Water more often and mist it.
Yellow lower leaves
Cause: Ageing or lack of fertiliser. What to do: Cut them off and feed every two weeks in summer.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the banana plant?
About every 3 days in spring and summer, and every 7 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the banana plant?
The banana plant loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Should you mist the banana plant?
Yes, misting every 3 days does it good, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Use soft, room-temperature water.
When should you repot the banana plant?
Every year, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the banana plant safe?
The banana plant is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. A pet that eats a lot of it may still vomit, so it's best not to let it nibble.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Fairly: the banana plant needs a little attention, mostly with watering and light. Nothing complicated with a reminder at the right time.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.