How Cold Hardy Are Banana Trees

Given their native climate, it is unsurprising that banana plants are cold intolerant. They need mild temperatures in order to grow; their leaves will stop growing at around 55°F. They will suffer leaf damage at 32°F, and their underground rhizomes will die at sustained temperatures of 22°F or lower.

Do banana trees need to be covered for frost?

Banana trees (Musa spp.) are herbaceous plants, highly susceptible to freezing weather. … Wrapping the tree or covering it with tarps provides protection for short freezes. In areas with long, sustained freezes, it’s best to dig up the rhizome in fall and replant it each spring.

Can I leave my banana plant outside?

Water the banana plant when you put it into the container but be sure there are drainage holes in the pot so that the tree doesn’t rot. As soon as the danger of frost has passed you can plant your tree outdoors. If you purchase your banana tree during the growing season you should plant it outdoors right away.