Have you heard of Blue Java bananas? While not the most common banana variety, it’s becoming increasingly popular among gardeners. With its unique taste and beautiful blue-green hue, this banana is supposed to taste like vanilla ice cream!
I was sold when they said what it tastes like, so like any curious container gardener, I set out to find a blue java banana tree to grow in a pot!
I live in Texas and fortunately for me, one fateful grocery store shopping trip with my family proved to be the perfect time to purchase a blue java banana tree.
My daughter is a huge fan of bananas so having them in our backyard sounds like a great idea!
Plus, I had always wanted to try these creamy, delicious bananas so 18 dollars later and trip to my car I was the proud new owner of a java banana tree on my way home.
Can you grow blue Java bananas in a pot?
Blue Java bananas, also known as the “ice cream banana,” are known for their sweet and creamy flavor. These bananas are a unique variety that have a stunning blue hue when they are still unripe, turning yellow with hints of green as they mature.
Yes, it is possible to grow Blue Java bananas in a pot. While Blue Java banana trees are typically grown in the ground in tropical or subtropical climates, they can also thrive in pots under the right conditions.
Growing Blue Java bananas in a pot offers several advantages, such as portability and the ability to control their growth in limited spaces. By selecting a suitable pot size, using well-draining soil, and providing the necessary care and maintenance, you can successfully cultivate a Blue Java banana tree in a pot and enjoy the unique taste and appearance of these delicious fruits.
Blue Java Banana Growing Zone
Blue Java bananas perform best in USDA growing zones 9-10 but can grow in zones 8-11. These zones typically have mild winter climates and are characterized by average minimum temperatures ranging from 20 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
While Blue Java bananas can tolerate a range of temperatures, they do require a warm and humid climate to thrive.
If you live in a colder climate with lower temperatures, you can still grow Blue Java bananas indoors or in a greenhouse.
Choosing The Right Pot and Soil For A Java Banana Tree In A Pot
Before going home, we made a stop at a local home improvement store (Home Depot) to find a pot to put this baby in.
As soon as we purchased the tree, I was wondering what size pot for blue java? Luckily we didn’t have to go far, Home Depot was right across the street and they had a good selection of large plastic containers. We ended up picking this large, blue 20-inch pot affectionately known as Blue Belle. This pot holds about 13 gallons.
If you’re looking for a pot for your ice cream banana tree, go for a pot that is at least 18 inches in diameter and 18 inches deep. A 10-15 gallon pot should provide enough space for the roots to grow.
Your pot should have a drainage hole because while banana trees are thirsty plants, they cannot stand in waterlogged soil!
For the soil, use a well-draining potting mix that contains 1 part peat moss and 1 part perlite or vermiculite. This special mix will help to aerate the soil while also providing good drainage for the roots.
We happened to have a bag of Nature’s Creation Organic Potting Soil around our house and that is what we used.
Planting The Blue Java Banana Tree In A Container
After choosing the right pot for our blue Java banana tree, we were ready to plant it.
Before planting your Blue Java banana tree, ensure that the pot is ready and filled with the appropriate soil mixture.
Carefully remove the Blue Java banana sapling from its nursery container, taking care not to damage the roots. Gently loosen the soil around the sapling by tapping the container’s sides or squeezing it lightly.
This will help in separating the sapling from the container without causing harm.
Dig a hole in the center of the pot that is slightly larger than the root ball of the sapling. Make sure the hole is deep enough to accommodate the entire root system.
Place the sapling in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball aligns with the soil level of the pot.
Fill the hole with the prepared soil mixture, gently pressing it down around the roots to eliminate any air pockets. Take care not to compact the soil excessively, as it may hinder root growth.
Once your java banana tree is securely planted, water the tree thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. This will provide initial hydration and promote establishment.
Optimal Growing Conditions For Growing a Java Banana Tree In A Pot
Sunlight
Blue Java banana trees thrive in full sun, so it’s important to choose a sunny location for your potted tree. Aim for a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
If you’re growing the tree indoors, place it near a south-facing window or use grow lights to provide sufficient light. Insufficient sunlight can result in weak growth and limited fruit production.
Temperature and Humidity
Temperature: Blue Java banana trees prefer tropical or subtropical climates. Maintain a temperature range between 75°F to 95°F (24°C to 35°C) for optimal growth. Avoid exposing the tree to temperatures below 60°F (15°C), as it can lead to damage or stunted growth.
Humidity: Blue Java banana trees thrive in high humidity. If you live in a dry climate, you can increase humidity by misting the leaves with water regularly or placing a tray filled with water near the tree. Another option is to use a humidifier to maintain an ideal humidity level of around 60-70%. Proper humidity levels help prevent leaf browning and promote healthy growth.
Watering
Blue Java banana trees require regular watering to maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil. Water the tree deeply, ensuring that the entire root ball receives water.
Check the soil moisture regularly by inserting your finger about an inch (2.5 cm) into the soil. If it feels dry at that depth, it’s time to water. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. However, do not let the soil completely dry out between waterings.
Adjust the watering frequency based on the weather conditions. During hot and dry periods, you may need to water more frequently, while cooler and rainy periods may require less frequent watering. Always monitor the soil moisture to avoid water stress or waterlogging.
Fertilization
Blue Java banana trees are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer according to the package instructions. Apply the fertilizer around the base of the tree, avoiding direct contact with the trunk.
Additionally, supplement with a potassium-rich fertilizer to promote fruit production. Potassium is essential for healthy flower and fruit development.
Follow a fertilization schedule throughout the growing season, typically every two to three months, but adjust the frequency based on the specific fertilizer’s recommendations and the tree’s response.
Blue Java banana trees are typically self-pollinating, meaning they do not rely on external pollinators.
Pruning and Maintenance of Ice Cream Banana Trees In Containers
Regularly inspect your Blue Java banana tree for dead, yellowed, or damaged leaves. These leaves not only detract from the tree’s appearance but can also provide a breeding ground for pests and diseases.
Using clean and sharp pruning shears, carefully remove any unwanted foliage. Make clean cuts near the base of the leaf stem, avoiding unnecessary damage to the main stem or surrounding healthy leaves.
Pruning Suckers
Suckers are shoots that emerge from the base of the Blue Java banana tree. While they may initially seem harmless, excessive suckers can divert energy away from the main stem and hinder the tree’s growth.
It’s important to maintain one or two healthy suckers to serve as potential replacements for the main stem if needed. Identify the strongest suckers and carefully remove the excess ones by cutting them as close to the base as possible.
Pest and Disease Control
Monitor your Blue Java banana tree regularly for common pests such as aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites. Inspect both sides of the leaves, stems, and the base of the tree.
If you notice any infestations, consider using organic insecticidal sprays or insecticidal soaps specifically formulated for controlling these pests.
Watch out for common diseases that can affect banana trees, such as Fusarium wilt or leaf spot. If you observe any signs of disease, such as yellowing or browning of leaves, spots, or wilting, take immediate action. Remove and destroy infected plant parts to prevent the spread of the disease.
Harvesting Blue Java Banana Trees
Now this is the fun part you’ve been waiting for right? Everybody wants to taste the fruits of their labor right? Literally!
When to harvest blue java banana? Well, you will need some patience.
If you are starting with a Blue Java banana tree from a nursery, it can take around 15-18 months for the plant to produce its first main stem and develop a bundle of banana flowers.
Once the flowers have bloomed, it will take approximately 4-5 months (or around 115-150 days) for the bananas to mature and be ready for harvest.
Therefore, in total, it can take around 19-23 months for a Blue Java banana tree to be harvested. It’s important to keep in mind that factors such as climate, soil conditions, and care practices can all affect the growth rate of the tree.
Blue Java bananas are ready to be picked when the blue tint on their peel fades away, leaving a mellow yellow color. In addition, the flower petals of the banana plant will begin to turn crisp and brown, indicating that it’s time for harvest.
It’s recommended to cut the entire stalk of bananas off the tree when they’re ready and hang them in a shaded spot until ripened to your preference. Bananas will usually ripen from the top down, going from green to yellow.
Can I Grow Ice Cream Banana In A Pot?
Yes! Blue Java bananas can be grown in pots, making them a great choice for those who don’t have a lot of space.
I will be updating this post with updates on this tree! With proper care and attention, you can enjoy the sweet taste of these unique bananas for years to come.
So tell me, will you be getting your hands on a Blue Java banana tree and start growing your own bananas?
