Banana (Ethiopian Banana) (A)
Musa ensente
Annual/Tropical Perennial. Start indoors 8 –10 weeks before last spring frost date. Germination can be erratic but will usually germinate within 4 weeks. Soak seed for at least 2 hours in warm water before sowing. Sow just below soil surface, keep moist and place in a warm, dark place. Bottom heat is helpful. Inspect regularly. As soon as a seed starts to germinate, carefully dig it out and plant into a 5” pot. Plant outside after last frost or grow in a sunny room. Gets 2-3 feet the first year and up to 4-5 feet in the second. Prefers full sun to light shade where summers are hot. Keep well watered and fertilize regularly. Protect from frost. Our web manager Vanessa, has had wonderful success over-wintering huge, beautiful banana plants in her bright kitchen. Not hardy.
