Tissue culture banana plantlets come out of a vessel with thin cuticles, delicate roots and stomata that are not used to dry air. Commercial nurseries harden them in two phases so the transition is gradual.
Primary hardening
- Where: a humid, shaded structure such as a greenhouse or net house with misting or covered trays.
- Substrate: a clean, well-drained, low-nutrient mix; cocopeat-based mixes are common.
- Conditions: very high humidity at first, reduced over the first weeks, with shade and steady warmth.
- Duration: commonly three to four weeks, depending on the cultivar and conditions.
Moving plants out of the vessel
- Remove plantlets and wash off every trace of agar.
- Trim long or damaged roots and plant into the tray substrate.
- Water in gently and keep humidity high.
Secondary hardening
- Where: a shade net or open greenhouse area with less humidity and more light.
- Containers: small polybags or pots with a richer mix of substrate and soil or compost.
- Care: regular watering, light feeding and increasing sun.
- Duration: commonly a further several weeks, until plants are sturdy and ready for the field.
Common problems
Fungal rots from stagnant water, scorch from sudden sun, and weak plants from over-feeding early. Clean trays, clean water and gradual change prevent most of them.
Read the general method in how to acclimatise TC plants and the acclimatisation guide. See the banana cultures.