Problem with banana growth.

[DD86]

In the attached picture you see the backs of the banana's go dark. Later in the ripening proces rgese spots get hard.

The babana's are not obstructed in any way, no leaves rubbing.

Has anyone had the same? I asked locals and they shrug their shoulders; they don't know either.

Any tips? Thank you.

[CLW]

Sunburn?

[TedG]

Thanks for the photo — that helps a lot.

 

The large black or dark purple-black patches on your green bananas are most likely caused by sunburn (sunscald) or cold damage, depending on your local conditions. Here’s a breakdown based on the appearance:

 

 

 

 

🔎 What It Looks Like:

 

 

The spots are elongated, following the shape of the banana.

They are dark purplish-black and not sunken or moldy, which rules out most fungal diseases.

The rest of the banana skin looks healthy — no soft rot or widespread spotting.

 

 

 

 

 

✅ Most Likely Cause:

Sunburn or Heat Stress

 

 

When bananas are suddenly exposed to direct sunlight — especially after leaf pruning or during extreme heat — the outer skin can develop these dark lesions. This often happens on the side of the bunch that faces the sun.

 

 

🌡️ Alternate Possibility:

Cold Damage

 

 

If the bananas were exposed to temperatures below 13°C (55°F), especially during early development or after harvest, the skin may develop dark blotches like this. It’s common in highland or shaded regions, or when fruit is stored in a cold area post-harvest.

 

 

 

 

🍌 Are They Still Edible?

 

 

Yes — the fruit inside is usually unaffected and safe to eat. These marks are cosmetic and don’t affect taste or ripening much, though they can cause faster spoilage in storage.

 

 

 

 

🛠 What to Do:

 

 

Shade bunches on the plant with banana leaves or shade cloth if exposed to harsh sun.

Avoid removing too many leaves around the fruit while it’s still developing.

If harvesting early, avoid storing them in cold places like fridges or cold floors.

Handle them gently — avoid bumping or pressing bunches, as bruising can worsen the appearance.

 

 

 

 

Let me know your growing region or recent weather if you’d like a more specific diagnosis!