Optimal Time and Technique for Harvesting Abyssinian Banana Trees

The Abyssinian banana tree scientifically known as Ensete ventricosum produces a valuable staple crop in many East African countries. These trees play a key role in the culture and economy of Ethiopia in particular. Carefully considering the optimal timing and technique for harvesting Abyssinian bananas ensures a bountiful yield. This article explores when and how to harvest bananas from Abyssinian trees.

The Abyssinian banana is an impressive plant, growing up to 6 meters tall with enormous leaves up to 3 meters long The tree takes around 75-80 days to go from flowering to bearing mature fruit. Banana plants are not actually trees but herbaceous perennials with juicy stems arising from an underground corm. They propagate through suckers that continually emerge around the main plant

Determining When to Harvest Abyssinian Bananas

Choosing the right time for banana tree harvesting is crucial. While the size of Abyssinian bananas varies, size alone does not indicate ripeness. Generally, the upper hands of bananas can be harvested when:

• Fruit is plump and filled out, with no prominent angles
• Peels are light green and yellowing
• Flower remnants rub off easily
• Fruit is around 75% mature

This will allow the bananas to finish ripening off the tree within 7-14 days. Home growers should cut bananas slightly less ripe than if left on the tree.

Step-by-Step Guide to Harvesting Abyssinian Bananas

Follow these steps for harvesting banana trees:

1. Identify Ready Hands of Bananas

Scan the banana hands on the tree and select those meeting the ripeness criteria above. Leave any greener, immature hands to continue ripening.

2. Cut Banana Hands with a Sharp Knife

Use a clean, sharp knife to sever the selected banana hands. Leave some stem attached if desired – 6-9 inches makes the hands easier to carry.

3. Transport Hands Carefully

Carry harvested banana hands with care to avoid bruising the fruit. Support the weight of each hand while moving.

4. Store in a Cool, Shady Area

Place harvested banana hands in a cool, shaded spot out of direct sun. Do not refrigerate or cover with plastic, as this can damage ripening.

5. Allow Bananas to Ripen Naturally

Within a week or two, the bananas will turn yellow and become sweet, aromatic, and ready to enjoy.

Tips for a Successful Abyssinian Banana Harvest

Follow these tips for the best harvest:

• Check banana hands regularly as they ripen at different rates
• Use clean tools to prevent spreading disease
• Cut hands carefully to avoid slippage and bruising
• Store stems down to prevent sap leaking onto other fruit
• Enjoy immediately once ripe, as shelf life is limited
• Propagate new suckers to maintain future harvests

Overwintering Abyssinian Banana Trees

As Abyssinian banana trees are not cold hardy, proper overwintering techniques are vital in cooler climates. There are several options:

• Grow in a container and move indoors over winter
• Cut back leaves and move dormant root ball indoors
• Mulch heavily and wrap trunk to overwinter dormant in place

The easiest approach is leaving the tree dormant in place, cutting all leaves and protecting the trunk with an insulating wrap or bag.

Harvesting Abyssinian bananas requires careful timing and technique for optimal flavor and productivity. Pay close attention to indicators of ripeness, use proper harvesting tools and handling, and store bananas carefully to fully enjoy their bounty. Overwinter with care to ensure many productive seasons from these magnificent banana trees. With the right approach, Abyssinian bananas can provide sustenance and enjoyment for years to come.