Crop Rotation Group
Miscellaneous ●
Soil
Fertile, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH.
Position
Full sun.
Frost tolerant
No. Plantains are tropical plants with little tolerance for cold. They are hardy only to about -4°C (25°F).
Feeding
Feed monthly with a balanced organic fertiliser.
Spacing
Single Plants: 1.80m (5' 10") each way (minimum)
Rows: 1.80m (5' 10") with 1.80m (5' 10") row gap (minimum)
Sow and Plant
In tropical climates, plantains can be planted year-round. Dig and replant small pups from an existing clump, or start with purchased plants. In areas where plantains are grown commercially, biosecurity measures to control pests and diseases may affect your choice of plants. Maintain steady soil moisture after planting plantain. Plantains need plenty of moisture and nutrients to support strong growth. When planting multiple plantains, allow 6 feet (1.8 m) between plants. Each plant will send up basal shoots to form a clump. Most plantains grow to about 15 feet (4.5 m) tall.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
Notes
Plantains and bananas are closely related plants that are grown the same way but produce very different fruits. Bananas, sometimes called sweet bananas or dessert bananas, are much sweeter than starchy plantains, which are always cooked. The fruiting process requires eight months or more of warm temperatures ranging from 21°C (70°F) at night to above 27°C (80°F) during the day.
Harvesting
Plantains are harvested by the bunch. A bunch is ready to cut when the dried flowers at the ends of the fruits rub off easily with your fingers.
Troubleshooting
Plantain leaves often split in response to strong winds, which can sometimes pull plants over. If you live where plantains or bananas are grown commercially, take the time to learn about locally abundant pests of bananas and plantains.
Planting and Harvesting Calendar
< Back to All Plants
Pests which Affect Plantain