Question
hi, i had planted two type of banana plants which i couldn't tell ya what kind it is, but one has red spots, and the other is solid red on the bottom and green on top. my question is,since they are young plants, as 3ft tall,what can i do to keep them alive for next spring to go taller as 6-8ft if they even grow that tall as what i have in my garden,especially living in south fort worth, texas. it is out in the yard away from the house. if you please let me know what to do, and if you would, what info about the best ,but budget,green house to build for the good old texas weather. i love plants,especially, all kinds. i'm trying to grow all types of plants i can here. lilies, herbs, veggies,fruit trees, and more.....what i can get and grow here in crowley,texas. thanks for your time and knowledge, kim

Answer
Hi Kim, you are limited to what you can safely grow by your climate zone, I'm thinking you are around a 7, bananas need a zone 8 at least to withstand the winter without protection; if they are only 3 feet tall, I would pot them in a large enough container to fit their rootball and bring them in for the winter, keep them misted and the soil on the moist side with drainage at the bottom of the container, then move them outside next spring, although you could also move them out during warmer days throughout the year.I don't really know of any greenhouses, but if you research them you should be able to find one I'm sure, but they are expensive. I grow bananas yearound here in south florida and i even have to take precautions in the winter a couple of times to protect them from frost. Next spring when you are sure there will be no more frosts, put them back in the ground and fertilzie heavily and frequently and lots of irrigation, because you will need to get your plant to bear fruit before the ensuing winter, for they will be too large to move in then. Nick