Question
I have a banana palm fern houseplant that is about 7-8 ft. tall.  I travel extensively and do not have anyone who can water it for me when I am gone.  I live in Los Angeles so we never get very cold weather.  Is this the type of plant that I could leave outside on a balcony or on my rooftop terrace so that it at least gets some water when I am not home?  Thank you.  Mitch Williams

Answer
Mitch,

Ok, lets start from the beginning, they are banana plants (not palms or ferns),actually a big herb; that said, they are perpetual, under the ground is what is called a corm, that's its root system, its like a big potato, and out of this corm perpetual plants develop, and pop through the soil.  Yes, you can put it outside while you are out of town. It will have to be started out in a semi shady location though or it will get sunburned, then it can be gradually moved to more sun. These plants need a lot of water. If you are only going to be out of town for a week water the plant heavily so there is plenty of water in the drain tray and water it again first thing when you get home. If you are going to be gone more than a week you will need to find someone to water it for you. Perhaps you could find a neighbor or you can call around to some florist shops in your area and pay them to stop by while you are gone to water your banana plant. Many florist shops will perform that service if requested. You can go to the following web site to get more information on caring for bananas: http://www.tropicalpermaculture.com/growing-bananas.html
If you have more questions feel free to write again.  Good luck!

Darlene