Position
Bananas prefer full sun or partial shade in the afternoon. Because it is not a very tall tree, the Grand Nain can withstand strong winds better than other cultivars.
Size
A mature Grand Nain tree is between 2.5 and 3 metres tall and spread between 1.8 and 2.4 metres.
Soil
Your tree needs well-draining soil with a pH range of between 6.5 and 8.
Use potting soil if you’re growing your tree in a container. To grow it in the ground, you could simply use your garden soil or a mixture of compost and potting soil. Our volcanic rock dust is great for keeping your soil in optimal condition for your banana tree.
Watering
Keep the soil around your banana tree moist and ensure the roots do not dry.
Mulching
Add a thick layer of pine bark mulch, keeping it about 20 to 30 centimetres away from the tree trunk (any closer may cause excess moisture and damage the trunk). This will retain the moisture in the soil and will prevent weeds from taking over.
Fertilising
Apply 1 teaspoon of our slow-release nitrogen-rich berry fertiliser every 4-5 months.
Pruning
To keep your tree in tip-top shape, remove any damaged or worn leaves to stimulate the growth of new leaves.
Pests and Diseases
Aphids, citrus psylla, red scale, citrus greening. Spraying regularly with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control ) will assist in either prevention or after the fact. If you already have aphids or mites, wash the tree with a harsh hosing, and when dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control.
Practice good garden hygiene (remove fallen fruit and leaves).
Watch for root rot (if overwatered) and fungal infections during wet periods.
Harvesting
From the time the flowers appear to when the fruit is mature is usually 75 to 80 days. They are ready to pick when the fruit on the upper section changes from green to a light-green/yellow colour. The fruit will also have begun to plump up. Remember that bananas can also be used at various stages – even green bananas.
