Can You Grow a Banana Plant Indoors?

by Ari Koufos 12/09/2024

If you want a large, tropical houseplant that will survive in any climate, consider a banana plant. There are dozens of varieties of banana plant, including some smaller varieties perfect for indoor pots. Here are the basics of caring for a banana plant indoors:

Light Requirements

Most types of banana plant want at least 6 hours of full sunlight per day. However, some of the more cold-hardy varieties are more sensitive to sunburn and prefer partial shade. Because there is such a wide range of light requirements, it's crucial to know what type of banana plant will work best in your home.

To keep a banana plant thriving even without a perfect window spot, consider using grow lights. You can use LED grow light bulbs in your existing fixtures or try a dedicated full-spectrum kit for high-powered artificial sunlight.

Water

Being tropical plants, bananas need a lot of water to thrive. In the wild, they do best grouped closely together to share ambient moisture. As a houseplant, a banana plant will need daily watering during the growing season to keep its soil evenly moist. They'll require less water in the winter, but are not tolerant of complete neglect--make sure not to let them dry out completely.

Temperature & Humidity

A banana plant will be happiest in an environment similar to its tropical rainforest habitat. For houseplant owners, this typically means placing the plant near a humidifier, or misting regularly with a spray bottle.

Banana plant also prefer warmer temperatures. Keeping the environment between 75 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit will protect it from rapid decline. If you place your banana plant beside a glass door or window, consider moving it further away from the glass when the temperature outside drops.

Is a banana plant right for you? Consider these tips if you're planning to add one of these stunning tropical plants to your home jungle.

About the Author
Author

Ari Koufos

I have been selling Real Estate in the Greater Boston Area since 1997. I am the Co-Founder & Current Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Watertown. A lifelong resident of Watertown which I still reside with my Wife Debra and my Twins Emily & Christopher.  I am a  supporter of many local & national charities. One of my most rewarding fundraisers was as a rider in the PanMass Challenge in 2010,2011,2015 & 2016 raising over $50,000 over those 4 years for the Dana Farber Jimmy Fund. I am a 1988 Graduate of Bentley University in Waltham. I have extensive knowledge of all types of Real Estate participating in over 1000 transactions. I also have New Construction experience & specialize in condo conversions.  

Purchasing a home is one of the single most important investments in a person's life. With my expertise and guidance in the home buying and selling process, I can help find the most appropriate home for you. You can be assured that an experienced Real Estate Professional is working with your interests in mind. Please contact me on my cell at 617-799-8948 or email [email protected] for a free consult if you are thinking of Buying or Selling your home.