Should Bananas Be Covered?

Bagging bananas, according to Purdue University, can also protect against pests like the banana rust thrip, meaning there is more than one good reason to consider implementing this practice in your banana plantation. 4. Slide Bags On Plants Slide the plastic garbage bag up over all the banana bunches.

Pull an opaque bag, such as burlap or a specialty blue-colored polythene bag, over the entire bunch. Tie the top of the bag closed by wrapping a string around the bag at the top of the banana bunch. Leave the bag in place until after harvest, between 75 and 80 days after putting the covering over the banana bunch, according to Purdue University.

Some commercial growers still favor the old-time burlap, sisal or jute bags for banana bunch covers. Bunch covers can accelerate ripening slightly in some varieties, which may or may not appeal to you.

Overripe bananas are safe to eat. The real issue is your preference; when a banana is at its best for eating is a subjective decision and some people love overripe bananas, others find them too mushy and sweet. Try it to see if you like it. Do not any banana showing signs of mold or deterioration though; if in doubt, compost it.