My dwarf banana tree has several small green stems growing out around the base of the tree. Should i just leave them alone or should i cut them and plant them for more trees? If I should cut them does anyone know how is best o do this? The tree is 2 years old and about 4' tall which is nearing the max for this tree. It is not fruited as of yet. Thanks for all advice.
banana propagation question
I think you should wait until Fall. With the Summer heat in full swing, trying to divide them now would be risky. I like to make my banana divisions a little at a time, allowing the roots to recover after being cut up. I use a large semi-serrated "bowie" knife followed by a hacksaw blade (augggh!) and do just a little at a time, sticking a small piece of cut-up vinyl siding into the cut. This way, by the time I'm ready to divide, at least 50% of the shock is already over and it's Fall with lower temperatures and lower stress.
As to when to divide it's up to you. Individual plants will surely do better, with less competition for water, nutrients, and sun. But removing the pups too early entails a little risk that the pup won't survive. It depends on how many plants you want (or have room for). You don't "have" to take them off at all, but most people do. I usually wait until the pup is about 1/3 the size of mom.
See http://davesgarden.com/forums/t/627871/ :)
Peace,
Joe G.