Nendran Banana

Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing 

Nendran Banana , also known as Nendran Varikka or Kerala Banana, is one of the most popular and nutritious banana cultivars in South India. Known for its thick skin, firm flesh, and excellent taste whether eaten ripe, boiled, or fried, Nendran is widely grown for its productivity and rich flavour. With proper care, it grows vigorously and produces large, healthy bunches. Here is a detailed 600-word care guide for growing Nendran Banana successfully at home or in farms.

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Nendran Banana Plant – Complete Care Guide :

1. Light Requirements

Nendran banana plants require full sunlight for rapid growth and healthy fruit production. Ensure they receive 6–8 hours of direct sun daily. Sunlight helps in leaf development, strong pseudostem formation, and good bunch size.
Avoid growing them in fully shaded areas or under dense trees because low light leads to slow growth, thin pseudostems, and small bunches.

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2. Temperature & Climate

Nendran bananas thrive in warm, humid tropical climates. The ideal temperature range is 22°C–34°C. They cannot tolerate frost or severe cold, which can cause leaf burn or complete plant collapse.
Consistent warm weather, moderate humidity, and good rainfall support faster growth. In high-wind areas, provide windbreaks because banana plants are top-heavy and can easily topple over.

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3. Watering

Banana plants need regular and heavy watering due to their large leaves and fast growth rate. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

• Water deeply 2–3 times a week depending on climate.

• During summer, increase frequency as the soil dries faster.

• Reduce watering slightly in rainy months to avoid water stagnation.

Mulching with dry leaves, coco husk, or straw helps retain moisture and keeps soil temperature stable. Stagnant water around the base can cause stem rot, so proper drainage is crucial.

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4. Soil Requirements

Nendran grows best in rich, well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0–7.0. The soil should be fertile because bananas are heavy feeders and require nutrients throughout their growth cycle.
Ideal soil mix:

• 50% garden soil

• 30% compost or cow manure

• 20% river sand for drainage

If planting in pits, fill them with topsoil mixed with compost, wood ash, and neem cake for strong initial rooting. Avoid waterlogged clay soils as they stunt growth.

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5. Fertilising

Nendran banana plants are nutrient-hungry and need consistent feeding. Fertilise at the following stages:

At planting:

• 5–10 kg well-rotted cow manure

• Neem cake for pest protection

During growth (every 45 days):

• NPK 10-10-10 or 19-19-19

• Add compost or vermicompost

• Wood ash for potassium, which improves fruit quality

Before flowering:
Increase potassium-rich fertilisers (muriate of potash or organic alternatives) to enhance fruit size and sweetness. Overuse of nitrogen causes tall, weak plants with small bunches, so maintain balance.

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6. Support & Maintenance

Banana pseudostems are heavy and may bend under the weight of the bunch. Provide sturdy support with bamboo or sticks when bunching begins.
Remove dried, yellowing leaves regularly to improve airflow and reduce pest pressure. Keep the surroundings weed-free to avoid competition for nutrients.

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7. Suckers Management

Banana plants produce side shoots (suckers). For proper growth:

• Keep only one sword sucker (narrow-leaved young shoot) as the follower plant.

• Remove all other suckers to prevent nutrient loss.
  This ensures continuous production and maintains plant health.

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8. Flowering & Fruiting

Nendran usually flowers within 10–12 months depending on care and climate. The banana bunch grows gradually and takes 3–4 months to develop fully.
Covering the bunch with banana sheath or mesh bags protects fruits from pests and sunscald. Add extra potassium during fruiting for weighty, healthy bananas.

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9. Pests & Diseases

Common issues include:

• Banana weevil

• Aphids

• Nematodes

• Sigatoka leaf spot

• Stem rot

Control methods:

• Apply neem cake during planting

• Spray neem oil every 15 days

• Ensure proper drainage

• Remove infected leaves immediately

Good sanitation greatly reduces disease spread.

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10. Harvesting

Nendran bunches are ready when the fruits become full-sized, plump, and bright green with smooth skin. Cut the entire bunch carefully using a sharp knife. Allow bananas to ripen naturally for best flavour.