Banana Bunch in Cold Weather: Wrap or Cut and Bring In?

The Dilemma

In North Port, SW Florida, a Cavendish banana bunch formed in late October. Cold nights threaten. Owner wraps the bunch in a blanket—asks whether to continue wrapping or cut the bunch and bring it inside.

Expert Verdict: Keep Wrapping, Don't Cut

Cutting the bunch now will cause it to shrivel—it needs 3 months on the plant to mature. Instead:

• Remove all leaves (the mother plant dies after fruiting anyway).
• Wrap the stub and bunch tightly with blankets/frost fabric.
• Hope for the best.

Silver Lining

The next pup in line will flower on schedule (May–June) and mature perfectly if well-fed and watered. This bunch is a long shot—but the next one is your real crop.