Banana tree is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a fruit tree that’s easy to care for and produces delicious, nutritious fruit. But like all plants, bananas require several nutrients to grow bountifully. Banana trees are heavy feeders, they thrive excellently when fertilizers are applied in adequate quantity at the right time. The type and quantity of fertilizers applied to banana trees depend on their growth stage and soil conditions.
Generally, banana trees prefer organic fertilizer and NPK fertilizers. The quantity of these fertilizers depends on the nutritional profile of the soil; hence, this is why it is highly important and advisable to carry out a soil test before planting and fertilizing banana trees. Soil tests before planting and fertilizing banana trees save you time and money as well as improve the soil health.
Before you start planting banana trees, you need to know the nutrients required by the banana tree from planting to maturity, as well as the quantity required. This information will guide you on the choice of fertilizer to apply. After the nutrient requirement, we then look into the various fertilizers for banana trees, the NPK fertilizers, and Organic fertilizer options.
Nutrient Requirements for Banana Trees
Like all plants, banana trees require essential nutrients such as Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium alongside trace nutrients such as boron, iron, magnesium, calcium, and sulfur to support their growth and fruit development. These nutrients are required in varying proportions at different growth stages of the banana trees.
A banana tree needs 150 – 200g N for good growth. Nitrogen is required in higher quantities at the vegetative growth stage of banana trees; Nitrogen aids leafy growth, root development, and overall plant vigor. Nitrogen also plays a crucial role in the production of chlorophyll, which is necessary for photosynthesis. For better understanding, we can say that Nitrogen is the protein in the plant diet. Nitrogen can be sourced from various fertilizers; there are nitrogen-rich fertilizers like Urea fertilizers and ammonium sulfate fertilizers that can be applied to the banana tree as it grows.
Banana tree needs about 40 – 60g of phosphorus. Banana trees need Phosphorus for root development, flower production, and fruit formation; it aids the movement of nutrients within the plant. Phosphorus is best applied in higher quantities at the flowering and fruit formation stage. Phosphorus can be supplied to banana trees through the application of NPK fertilizers and super-phosphate fertilizers. Phosphorus is best applied 3 – 9 months after planting.
Banana needs about 200 – 300g of potassium per plant. Potassium supports banana trees in fruit development, disease resistance, and improvement of the overall health. Potassium works with phosphorus to regulate water uptake and nutrient movement within the plant. Potassium can be applied to banana trees through the NPK fertilizers and Potassium-rich fertilizers.
Other micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, and iron also play crucial roles in the good development of the banana tree and fruit. Calcium helps in cell wall formation and prevents disorders like tip burn in banana fruits. Magnesium aids in chlorophyll formation and enzyme activation within banana trees. Banana needs minute these nutrients in minute quantities; too much of micronutrients can cause toxicity and can affect the growth of the banana trees.
Organic Fertilizers For Banana Trees
Organic fertilizers are the best choice for your banana trees because they decompose slowly and feed the banana trees for a very long time. Organic fertilizers are usually made from animal or plant matter; these are natural ingredients that are safe for the environment and the banana trees. Top organic fertilizers for banana trees are:
- Aged animal manure,
- Green compost, made from decomposed leaves and other plant matter
- Bone meal
- Kelp meal
- Blood meal
How and When to Apply: Generally, these organic fertilizers can be applied to banana trees at any time during the growing season; however, applying them correctly matters for better utilization. Manure and compost are added and gently worked into the soil during land preparation, before planting the banana suckers. Mix Bone meal, blood meal, or kelp meal with the topsoil around the base of the banana trees. These organic fertilizers can be applied to the banana trees after planting.
NPK Fertilizers For Banana Trees
NPK fertilizers are balanced plant food that contains the required nutrients for plant growth. NPK fertilizers are a good fertilizer choice for banana trees; unlike organic fertilizers, NPK fertilizers are fast-releasing, making them highly effective at correcting nutritional deficiencies in banana trees. Caution must be taken when choosing and applying NPK fertilizer for banana, this is because excessive application of NPK fertilizers can lower the soil pH, creating an acidic soil. In addition, some NPK fertilizers are prone to leaching and can contaminate the surrounding water body.
Do not get me wrong, NPK fertilizers are good for banana trees. They have rapid action in terms of fast foliage and root development, bigger fruits, and overall vitality of the banana tree’s health when applied at the right quantity and quality. This buttresses the need to carry out soil tests before applying NPK fertilizer to the banana trees. Soil tests enable you to apply the fertilizer in moderation and not in excess, which can be harmful to the soil and the plant. Top NPK fertilizers for banana trees are:
- 1. Elite 8-10-10 Fertilizer for Banana, Flowering, Fruit Trees – 1/2 Quart
- 2. Banana Fruit Fuel Plant Fertilizer – 5lb Bag 16-8-24
- 3. Premium Banana Tree Growth Booster Spray – 8oz
In the listed NPK fertilizers, some are foliar sprays while some are slow-release fertilizers.
1. Elite NPK 8-10-10 Fertilizer for Banana, Flowering, Fruit Trees
The Elite 8-10-10 Fertilizer is a premium blend of nutrients ideal for enhancing the growth and blooms of fruit trees, flowering plants, and ornamentals. The Elite 8-10-10 Fertilizer contains a balanced nutrient profile that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium at a ratio of 8-10-10. alongside other micronutrients like magnesium, iron, sulfur, copper, manganese, and zinc to support rapid root development and abundant fruit production. The Elite 8-10-10 Fertilizer is a slow-release fertilizer; it decomposes slowly and feeds the plant for a very long time.
Characteristics:
– Nutrient-balanced 8-10-10 blend
– Tailored for fruit trees and flowering plants
– Enhances plant resilience
– Easy to use for all gardeners
Formulation Details:
– 8% Nitrogen for leaf growth
– 10% Phosphate for roots and blooms
– 10% Potash for overall plant health
Additional Information:
– Date First Available: January 9, 2024
– Manufacturer: Summit Sales Company LLC
– Country of Origin: USA
Customer Feedback:
– Customers are satisfied with the effectiveness, quality, and appearance of the fertilizer
– Easy to use and apply directly to the soil
– Many customers report that their plants flourish and grow healthy after using the fertilizer
– Some customers feel the price is too high for the small bag
Application Guide
Target plants: The Elite 8-10-10 Fertilizer is typically formulated for fruit trees like banana, citrus, avocado, and more; flowering plants, lilies, heliconia, coral vines, and other plants; as well as lawn grasses.
Application Forms: It is a granular fertilizer.
Application Rate: 1 pound per inch of trunk diameter for banana trees and 1 pound per 100 sq. ft for gardens.
How to Apply: Evenly spread the Elite 8-10-10 Fertilizer around the root zone of the banana trees and gently incorporate it into the soil. Water immediately after application. You can also apply mulch to conserve moisture.
When to Apply: Apply 4 times per year, starting from planting to before the fruits mature.
2. Banana Fruit Plant Fertilizer – NPK 16-8-24
The Banana Fruit Plant Fertilizer is a premium water-soluble plant food specially formulated to facilitate rapid root development, strong stem growth, and bountiful fruit production of banana trees and other fruit trees. This fertilizer contains Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium at a ratio of 16-8-24; the high nitrogen and potassium levels of this fertilizer support healthy growth and abundant fruit production of banana trees. This fertilizer is applied as foliar and root feed, making the plant maximally utilize the nutrients in it.
Characteristics:
– Fruit Fuel Fertilizer 16-8-24
– Premium Water Soluble Fertilizer with minor elements
– Ideal ratio specially formulated for banana, fruit, and vegetable plants
– Good for container plants
– Designed for fruiting trees, shrubs, vines, bananas, and annual vegetables
– Can be used throughout the growing season
Formulation Details:
– Date First Available: July 19, 2023
– Manufacturer: grow-more
– Country of Origin: USA
– 5lb bag of Premium Proprietary Blend Banana and fruit plant fertilizer
– 1 Tbsp per gallon in ground, 1 Tsp per gallon in pots
Application Guide
Target Plants: Specifically formulated for banana trees and other fruit trees.
Application Forms: Liquid spray
Application Rate: Dissolve 2 pounds of the Banana Fruit Plant Fertilizer per 100 gallons of water per acre or 4 tablespoons per gallon of water for indoor or small garden application.
How to Apply: Mix the appropriate portion of the Banana Fruit Plant Fertilizer in the right quantity of water, spray evenly the leaves, stems, and roots of the banana trees or any fruit trees.
When to apply: Apply early in the season, at the beginning of new growth, before the fruit matures.
3. Premium Banana Tree Growth Booster Spray – 8oz
The Premium Banana Tree Growth Booster Spray is a liquid plant food specially formulated to support root development, the plant’s ability to withstand drought and pests, and overall wellness of banana trees. This fertilizer is fast-acting; it is commonly used to correct nutritional deficiencies in banana trees. Aside from feeding banana trees, this Banana Tree Growth Booster Spray is ideal for all fruit trees; it is rich in essential nutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc, maganses, magnesium, and sulfur.
Characteristics:
– Specifically formulated for a diverse range of trees including Banana, Avocado, Citron, Citrus, Kumquat, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, Mandarin, Mango, Orange, Pomelo, Tangerine, and Tropical varieties
– Enriched with essential nutrients such as Iron, Zinc, Manganese, Magnesium, and Sulfur
– Promotes enhanced growth and health of trees
– Easy to use spray application
– Suitable for all tree varieties and sizes
– Ideal for both ornamental and fruit-bearing trees
Formulation Details:
– Contains Iron (1.2%), Zinc (1.7%), Manganese (1.2%), Magnesium (1.0%), and Sulfur (4.1%)
– Liquid formula for easy absorption and effectiveness
– Balanced nutrient profile to support overall plant health and productivity
– Corrects common deficiencies in trees
– Provides visible improvements in tree health and vitality
Additional Information:
– Date First Available: April 18, 2024
– Manufacturer: Gardenera
– Country of Origin: USA
– Customers are satisfied with the quality and functionality of the fertilizer, noting easier use and essential nutrients for optimal growth and healthier foliage and fruiting.
Application Guide
Target Plants: Typically formulated for banana trees, citrus trees, papaya, avocado, and other fruit trees.
Application Forms: Liquid spray
Application Rate: 1.5 tablespoons of the Premium Banana Tree Growth Booster Spray per gallon of water.
How to Apply: Shake the fertilizer bottle well and mix 1.5 tablespoons of the fertilizer per gallon of water. Spray the fertilizer evenly on the leaves, stems, and roots of banana trees using a watering can, knapsack sprayer, and hose-end sprayers.
When to Apply: Apply the Premium Banana Tree Growth Booster Spray weekly during the growing season of banana trees.
Note: You can apply both the organic and NPK fertilizers to banana trees; you just need to schedule them strategically. You can incorporate the organic fertilizers, the aged manure, compost, blood meal, and bone meal, into the soil during land preparation before planting the banana trees. And as the banana plant grows, you can apply the NPK fertilizers. The organic fertilizer can be very helpful not only to your banana tree but to the soil health as well. When your banana shows symptoms of nutritional deficiencies like yellowing of leaves and brown coloration, consider NPK fertilizers like the Premium Banana Tree Growth Booster Spray or the Banana Fruit Plant Fertilizer.
How and When To Apply Banana Tree Fertilizers
Apply fertilizer to banana trees once every two months from spring through fall. If you live in an area with hard or alkaline soil, try mixing two parts compost with one part mulch before applying the fertilizer each time. Fertilizers are best applied during the cooler part of the day, usually very early in the morning or late in the evening. Also, it is very important to mention that eliminating weeds around the banana trees will reduce the competition between your banana tree and weeds. This will allow better utilization of the fertilizers.
Fertilizers can be applied to banana trees using different methods depending on the age of the banana tree and the form of the fertilizer you want to apply. Broadcasting method is best when the banana tree is still very young. Fertigation (Applying through irrigation water) is best for liquid fertilizers. The ideal method of fertilizer application is usually stated by the manufacturer of the fertilizer. You should read the label.
Conclusion and Recommendation
These fertilizers have their pros and cons, but here’s what we recommend: if you’re new to planting banana trees and don’t have much experience with fertilizers, go with the organic fertilizers like manure, blood meal compost. These work well because they release nutrients slowly over time, which means they won’t overload your soil with too much nitrogen and burn your plants. But if you know what you’re doing and want to try something more exciting (and possibly more effective), then go ahead and try one of the NPK fertilizers.
Happy Gardening!!!