Fixing Brown, Curling Leaves on a Potted Musa Basjoo in Michigan

Why Are the Edges of My Hardy Banana Turning Brown?

Michelle in Michigan received a Musa basjoo, keeps it in pots, and moves it indoors at night because of chilly temperatures. The leaves are browning at the edges and curling.

Expert Diagnosis

The combination of cool nights and overwatering in containers is the likely culprit. Pots can become waterlogged at the bottom, causing root rot. Bananas love water but hate "wet feet."

Remedy

1. Check the root zone: if the bottom of the pot is soggy, repot into fresh, well‑draining mix.
2. Add a layer of pea gravel or broken pottery at the bottom of the new pot for drainage.
3. Water only when the top inch of soil is dry.
4. Keep the plant outdoors during warm days and bring it in only when frost threatens.

New growth should emerge healthy once drainage and temperature are managed.