Re: California Gold
Last year, we paid $115. The reason that people are willing to pay so much is that it is listed as one of the most cold tolerant fruiting bananas. It seems like a lot, but our other alternative is to build a greenhouse, because it gets just a LITTLE too cold for most varieties here in San Jose, CA. Jeff lives in Modesto, which is colder in the winter and further inland, with less climate moderation, so I'm hoping that I can grow it out in the open this way.
Last year, since I didn't have any pups, I kept it in a pot on the balcony in case I had to bring it in. When I have at least one other pup, I will plant the main plant outside in the ground, with the baby providing "insurance" against the possible death of the plant outside, until I'm sure it really is as cold tolerant as advertised.
Maybe I've been suckered, but if it really does grow and fruit outside, it beats the heck out of a $5,000 greenhouse (and that's just the low end).
Best regards,
Lisa
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