Can I Cut A Banana Plant Down To Soil Level?

Question

The garden is small and I don’t want it to grow too big

Answer 1

Yes, but that will not control the ultimate size. They don't really need pruning except removing dead material, but I do chop my down, sometimes, to make transplanting easier. It will grow back, and more aggressively. Likely, It will also send up extra "pups", making the base wider. Many times, depending on the type, some can become very invasive. Really, it will be best to plant them in an area where they are allowed to grow, as they will not be contained, easily. You may have to keep them in check by digging out pups that escape too far from the mother plant. Otherwise, this may be more suited to large container life, where it can be divided and replanted without escapees. This article may help you with their care:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/guest-bloggers/growing-banana-trees