Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing

The Theni Nendran Banana, one of South India’s most famous banana varieties, is cherished for its thick flesh, rich aroma, and exceptional sweetness. Grown widely in the Theni district of Tamil Nadu, this variety is known for its vigorous growth, high yield, and strong adaptability to hot tropical climates. Whether you are a home grower or a small farmer, providing the right care will help your Theni Nendran banana plant thrive and produce premium-quality fruits. Below is a complete care guide covering soil, water, fertilizer, pruning, sunlight, pests, and maintenance.

Theni Nendran Banana Plant – Complete Care Guide :

1. Ideal Climate & Sunlight Needs

Theni Nendran loves hot, humid, tropical weather. It thrives best in temperatures between 25°C to 35°C, but it can survive brief periods of higher heat if watered well. Ensure the plant receives at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Morning sunlight is most beneficial for faster leaf development and strong pseudostem formation. If you are growing it in a slightly cooler area, choose the warmest spot in your garden and protect young plants from cold winds.

2. Soil Requirements

Rich soil is essential for growing premium-quality Nendran bananas. The ideal soil should be:

Deep and well-draining
Loamy or sandy-loam
Rich in organic matter
pH between 6.0 and 7.5

Before planting, dig a pit of 2×2×2 ft and fill it with a mix of:

50% red soil
25% well-decomposed cow dung or compost
25% sand or cocopeat

Avoid clayey soils that hold too much water, as this can cause root rot and slow growth.

3. Planting & Spacing

For healthy growth and maximum yield:

Keep 6–7 ft spacing between plants.
Plant the sucker or tissue culture plant slightly deeper than the soil line.
Press the soil firmly around the base to avoid air pockets.
Mulch with dry leaves or coconut husk to retain moisture.

In windy regions, provide temporary support to prevent the plant from bending.

4. Watering Requirements

Theni Nendran bananas need consistent and deep watering throughout their growth. Their roots spread wide and require moisture at all levels.

Watering tips:

Water every 2–3 days during summer.
Reduce to twice a week during cooler months.
Ensure the soil remains moist but never waterlogged.
Drip irrigation or basin irrigation gives the best results.

Adequate watering during the fruiting stage ensures bigger, sweeter bananas.

5. Fertilizer Schedule

Nendran is a heavy feeder. A proper nutrient schedule improves plant health, stem thickness, and fruit size.

Monthly Feeding Plan

Organic manure: 1–2 kg compost every month
NPK (recommended):
- At 2nd and 4th month: NPK 19-19-19 foliar spray
- At 3rd and 5th month: NPK 17-17-17 soil application
Micronutrients:
- Banana special micronutrient mix once every 30 days
- Magnesium sulphate for greener, larger leaves

During fruiting

Add potassium-rich fertilizers (MOP or 0-0-50)
Use banana bunch booster sprays for uniform fruiting

6. Pruning & Maintenance

Remove dried or damaged leaves regularly.
Allow only one main plant + one follower sucker. Remove all other suckers.
Keep the surrounding soil weed-free.
Add mulch to maintain moisture and prevent soil heating.

Tie the plant gently if strong winds are common.

7. Flowering & Fruiting

Theni Nendran usually flowers in 8–10 months, depending on care and climate. After flowering:

Support the bunch with a bamboo stick.
Remove the male flower (banana heart) 7–10 days after the last hand forms.
Cover the bunch with a blue or white banana cover for protection from birds and insects.

Harvest after 90–120 days of flowering, when the fruits are plump and the angles turn round.

8. Common Pests & Diseases

Pests

Banana stem borer
Aphids
Thrips
Mealybugs

Use neem oil spray (once every 10–14 days) to prevent infestations.

Diseases

Panama wilt
Leaf spot
Bunchy top virus

Ensure good drainage, clean planting material, and proper spacing to avoid these issues.

9. Harvesting

Harvest when:

The bananas are full-sized and rounded
The skin turns light green
One or two fruits show slight yellowing

Cut the whole bunch with a clean knife and store in shade for natural ripening.