Why are Banana trees dressed up as brides during Durga Puja?

Banana trees are dressed up as new brides during Durga Puja rituals. According to Hindu folklore, Lord Ganesha married banana tree to assure his mother that he would always care for her. Hence, on the seventh day of Durga Puja, the tree is washed in River Ganga, draped in red-white saree and placed next to Ganesh's idol, representing his wife.