Question
Hi Tracy,

  I have seen a million questions and answers about the care of banana plants in Winter.  I have 2 plants, both 8' tall and I would prefer NOT to have to dig them up and plant them in sand for the winter.  Is it possible to leave them in the ground if I cut the leaves back and  wrap the plants in burlap?  Also, even though the plants did not produce fruit they both have their daughters and grandaughters growing from their bases and are about 2' tall. I live in Atlanta and we are expecting our first freeze tonight. Although technically a warm zone we do get spots of pretty cold temps, also, the leaves now look terrible which I assume is due to the 30 something degrees we have had a few times already.

I would love a "final" answer as I am confused with the conflicting advice I have read so far...

Answer
Hi Lynne,
To be honest, I do not know a whole lot about banana tree plants but after receiving your question I did some research on them. From what I found it really depends a lot on what kind of banana plant you have. A hardy type will more likely survive than the less hardy types. It sounds like your best bet is going to be cutting the plant back and digging it up, putting it in a pot and bring it inside to store for the winter.
You can try just cutting it back and wrapping the plant in burlap if you want to take the risk. It seems that has worked for some people. If you do, use plastic instead or under the burlap. Moisture will rot the trunk stem long before the cold will kill it. Also be sure to cover the ground at the base of the plant with a mound of  hay or mulch to try to protect the roots. If you want, it might be best to cut off the daughter and granddaughter pups and propagate them. You can do that now just in case something goes wrong and you lose the mother plant over the winter or you can wait until spring. I would really like to be able to give you a "final" answer but I can't. I don't think there even is a final answer. It is really just a matter of deciding which advice you think is best and following it.
I hope this helps in some way. If you have any questions or need additional information don't hesitate to ask. I will do my best to find the answers you need.
Tracy