In this article, I will discuss methods on how to propagate string of bananas plant.
A string of banana plant is easiest to grow through propagation using healthy cuttings from an already established plant ( source).
Choose long and already mature stems to cut reason being; they are easier to propagate since they have fully developed.
Also, choose those with healthy and firm leaves, not dry ones.
Give the cutting point some time to form callus since it may rot if planted while still wet.
The time it takes to form callus will depend on the season; it forms callus faster during summer and slows during the winter.
In the initial days or weeks before roots sprouting, keep the conditions moist until you notice new growth.
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After seeing the growth, you can start regular watering to help the plant become fully established.
A single stem forms other stems to become a full plant.
Propagate several stem cuttings just in case some do not make it.
Always ensure the plant is not subjected to direct sunlight to avoid sunburn.
Methods On How To Propagate String Of Bananas
1. Water Propagation
Water propagation is one of the methods on how to propagate string of bananas.
The initial step underwater propagation method is taking the cuttings and dipping each tip in water.
After around two weeks, you will be able to see new roots sprouting from the parts inside the water.
By the fourth week, you will notice more new roots, and it is at this stage you transplant the plant in a pot.
In the pot, use perlite mixed with a cactus mix in the ratio of 1:1.
Moist the soil daily, and once it has fully developed, you can start watering like any other plant.
You can even reduce how often you water depending on the weather.
Once you see there is new growth on top of the plant, it’s a sign that it has fully established.
Your plant is now ready to be transferred your plant to the soil for firm support during growth.
Always keep the plant away from direct sunlight, especially during the summer season.
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2. Stick Cuttings in Soil
Once the cut parts have dried, stick them in the soil. In this method, ensure you cut 2 inches or more from the plant’s bottom.
Remove some fruits from the stem to make the cutting length for easy sticking in the soil.
Stick the end you cut off for the plant in the soil for fast rooting and establishment.
Use a combination of perlite and cactus mix and sand, of course, in a potting mix in the ratio of 1:1:1.
Sand ensures good drainage in case of excess water. Wait for a couple of weeks for the cutting to root and start new growth.
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You will notice some roots starting to come out of the cutting. To know that the plant has established, check out for new growth on top of the plant.
For better results, ensure you keep it away from direct sunlight to avoid burns outs in the propagation stage.
Make sure the soil stays moist daily for faster rooting and establishment.
Once the roots have fully established, you can start regular watering.
Reduce the watering frequency to at least once every week, but that will depend on how humid your area is.
If the end of the cuttings dipped into the soil are near the surface, water more frequently since the surface dries out fast.
In a case where they are deep in the soil, they tend to dry slower, hence less watering.
3. Laying On Soil
This method involves laying the stem cuttings on the soil. Ensure most parts are touching the soil surface for faster rooting.
The plant starts shooting roots from any point that is in contact with the soil.
Once you notice the roots have established, try repositioning the plant so that the roots can start digging into the soil.
You will notice that new roots start to develop after about 2 weeks.
You can find something to support the stem to keep it well-positioned.
Proper support ensures that the roots stay down so that they can easily penetrate into the soil.
Keep the soils moist all the time for faster rooting and once the roots have established, start watering the plants regularly.
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Use several cuttings in case some of them don’t survive. Always keep the plant away from direct sunlight to prevent drying due to sunburn.
Final Thoughts On How To Propagate String Of Bananas
You now have some information on how to propagate a string of bananas in the three various methods.
All of them are effective if you are looking forward to propagating your plants.
Always propagate more than one stem in case some do not succeed in the process.
Check on the plant frequently to monitor its progress during propagation.
Be patient enough for the cut to heal and seal before propagating to avoid bacteria and fungus development.