Removing Banana Corms in Tight Spaces

No Easy Way to Eliminate Established Banana Rhizomes

A Hawaii gardener has a banana clump pushing over fences in a confined corner. Current method: dissecting corms with a bread knife.

Expert Reality Check

Nick confirms there's no easy shortcut. Options: dig out corms with a long-bladed spade, or keep cutting them apart piece by piece. Herbicidal drenches can rot corms but risk damaging nearby plants. In tight quarters, persistent manual removal is the only safe method.

Practical Advice

Work slowly, use water to loosen soil, and remove as much rhizome as possible. Consider installing a deep root barrier if keeping some plants.