I recently planted 4 young Maurelii Abyssinian Banana trees. Three look great and are growing as expected. The fourth looked very healthy when I bought it. All leaves were full sized. Maybe some signs of wear, which I thought were normal from transport from grower... similar to others also purchased. Since that time (2 weeks ago, it has grown 2 additional leaves, and both are VERY stunted in their appearance. The main stem/vein looks good solid. The leaf itself is no more than 1/2 inch all the way up and down that branch. They both remain curled up. They are no way close to resembling what a normal healthy banana tree leaf is supposed to resemble. I am not sure if it's a disease, a bug, a genetic issue or something else. Should I just take the tree back and get another? Will it grow out of this phase? Any assistance is appreciated.

Thank you!
Dan

OK... after the 3rd leaf has materialized, also severely stunted it appears there are some black bugs in the very deepest portions where the leave grow ... I'm guessing beatles (similar to those that grow on canas) or something. They are not eating the leaves, but they sure are severely stunted in their growth... no more than an inch of leaf structure in width, but they are the full length.

Is there any saving the tree? Is there any way to kill them?

Any/all recommendations appreciated

Dan
Edited by dancheri on Jul 27, 2005 at 09:36 PM

I would try an insecticidal soap for the bugs. You can find it in any store that sells gardening/houseplant supplies. I know that Walmart carries it. Once you kill the bugs, then you can determine whether or not they were the cause of the leaf problem.

I would agree in killing the bugs but before I went out to Wal Mart and bouht some insecticide I would make some of my own naturally first, since some insecticides may not be safe for plants that bear edible fruits. Take some garlic, onion,and get some of the hottest peppers you can find and mince them up with a cup of water. Let this mix sit for 24 hours and then lightly spray on the plants in the areas you see the bugs. If this does not work and it should then consider a store bought insecticide. Also if you are growing more then oone plant be sure to get them seperated so the bugs do not contaminate your other plants. Best Of Luck !!

If all else fails, just whack the trunk off several inches above the ground and it shouold re-grow normally.

-steve