How to Grow Banana

Updated June 2026

A warm-season fruit for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Banana is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Banana in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the banana page for exact timing.

Varieties

Dwarf Cavendish, Compact, wind- and cold-resilient (Florida nurseries)
Ice Cream (Blue Java), Creamy, cold-tolerant (Florida nurseries)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 9.8 ft between plants.
Sowing: sow about 12 in deep.
Water: roughly 6.6 gal per plant every 2 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Bunchy top virus. In humid regions, Bunchy top virus, Panama disease and Black sigatoka can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Banana is usually ready to harvest within roughly 15 months once established. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant banana where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

Find your region →