View Full Version : I either have a flag on my
Ice Cream banana or.... it's an ear of corn:ha: This is one of the first bananas I got after joining here from Sandy 0225 so that makes it late Sept /early Oct 2008. it was a 7' banana cut down to 3 1/2 for shipping and, last year grew to 8 1/2 ft ( p-stem height) and was chopped down to 5 ' for the winter. It's up to almost 8' this year and just put out this flag over the past couple of days.:woohoonaner:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/71910j.jpg
Here's the whole plant:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0367.jpg
It didn't put near as many leaves out as the others so far this season and now I know why.
The Hollyberry Lady
07-19-2010, 04:40 PM
Oh WOW!!! Congratulations, Bob! :goteam:
You must be bursting wth joy! Very exciting indeed. Be sure to keep us posted! Great shots.
: )
sunfish
07-19-2010, 04:56 PM
Congrats
LilRaverBoi
07-19-2010, 05:02 PM
Nice! Plant looks great! Best of luck!
Jananas Bananas
07-19-2010, 05:25 PM
Hey BOB! HEY BOB! Guess what??? YOU STINK!!!!!! HA! HA! HA! HA! :ha:
Seriously good JOB, young man! :giveflowersnana:
~JaNan
CoryS
07-19-2010, 05:26 PM
Omg! Congrats dude! :D
:goteam::woohoonaner::goteam:
I have an Ice Cream banana plant but it's only about 2 feet tall. You said you cut it to 5 feet tall... Did you cut off the leaves too? Did you store it as a dormant plant? Sorry for all the questions but this is total excite! :D
saltydad
07-19-2010, 05:27 PM
Fantastic news Bob!! If you can do it in NJ, than maybe I can in MD. Woohoo!!
:woohoonaner:
Thanks All ...
Hollyberry... I'm sure you're going to have your own soon.
Nicest thing you could have said JaNan.... Thanks......I feel kind of"stinky" about now over it!:ha:
Thanks Cory, yeah I just whacked it off in October every year with a machete through the p-stem and brought it into my heated front porch indoors and it always started growing right away so, in colder zones this seems a good way to go. It was too tall for me to leave it whole and bring in each fall. Don't ever worry about questions..... just how I learned here.:ha:
I still don't have a clue really ....
I'm sure you will Howard.... want a pup just say the word!.... Thanks man.
:woohoonaner:[/QUOTE]
momoese
07-19-2010, 06:07 PM
Awesome, now to see how many finger you get! Congrats Mr!!
harveyc
07-19-2010, 06:19 PM
Awesome, Bob, congrats!!! I'll start off the guessing and think you'll get 94 fingers!!! :D
Dalmatiansoap
07-19-2010, 06:25 PM
REVOLUTION!!!
:woohoonaner:
congrats Bob :nanadrink:
great job is done there. Hmm, what are we missing now???
O yeah, taste report:ha:
:woohoonaner:
Mitchel and Harvey.... if I get a hand I'll just be that much more thrilled. You can bet I'll be posting.
Ante .... my friend..I figured you'd get one first. I'm well in to toasting success with the Croatian "tonic" like I told you I would. Ziviooooooooo!
Dalmatiansoap
07-19-2010, 06:49 PM
ŽIVIOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
:nanadrink:
kaczercat
07-19-2010, 06:51 PM
WOOHOO , congrats ! im sure your neighbors are amazed . hahah
harveyc
07-19-2010, 06:52 PM
Bob, you've got a strong-looking plant so I'm guessing you'll get quite a few hands. Well-deserved reward for your hard work. Getting them to mature will be a challenge, I imagine. Better get some plans for a heated greenhouse! :ha:
Abnshrek
07-19-2010, 06:55 PM
Congrat's Bob that's Awesome. :^)
Greenie
07-19-2010, 07:01 PM
nice!
DaveE
07-19-2010, 07:16 PM
:woohoonaner:
I am excited for you! Good luck!
WOOHOO , congrats ! im sure your neighbors are amazed . hahah
Hey Matt, my neighbors must think I'm nuts and one last night was asking why we kept staring at the one plant every 5 minutes.... the cat's out of the bag. Hope I can get some to share. Might have to start thinking of fall protection to see if I can get some mature fruit.... should I get some going.
Dean W.
07-19-2010, 09:19 PM
Congrats Bob!:woohoonaner::goteam: Keep us updated with pics!
CoryS
07-19-2010, 10:42 PM
Thanks Cory, yeah I just whacked it off in October every year with a machete through the p-stem and brought it into my heated front porch indoors and it always started growing right away so, in colder zones this seems a good way to go. It was too tall for me to leave it whole and bring in each fall. Don't ever worry about questions..... just how I learned here.:ha:
I still don't have a clue really....
Good! :D Because this is the one type of banana plant I have a lot of hopes for since it grows so tall [and fast] and an 8 foot stem would be totally awesome! And since I've only been trying to grow plants for 2 months now, I know I'll have a lot more questions to ask.
That's some great work you did with that banana plant and I'll be watching for more photos when you take them!
:goteam::woohoonaner::goteam:
The Hollyberry Lady
07-20-2010, 05:53 AM
This really is super exciting for you, Bob! :waving:
Hope you'll show us daily shots so we can see how things are developing. I can't wait to see what happens...
: )
kaczercat
07-20-2010, 07:00 AM
Hey Matt, my neighbors must think I'm nuts and one last night was asking why we kept staring at the one plant every 5 minutes.... the cat's out of the bag. Hope I can get some to share. Might have to start thinking of fall protection to see if I can get some mature fruit.... should I get some going.
AHHHhaha they had the nerve to ask you that . wooo. anyway all that looking payed off lol mine would never ask , i'd give em the death stare & try and burn half their yard down hehe. they don't know what it's like to live the life of An addict like we know !! i say please, if i wanna look at the banana plants every 5 min and touch them, water them every 5 hours then i will ahhahaa:) my neighbors are just mad cause they have completely no lives ! there out there drinking at 2 in the after noon and i'm out doing stuff . :P
cherokee_greg
07-20-2010, 08:47 AM
Great job !!!!!!!!!!!!! Very nice !!!!!!!!!!!!
Patty in Wisc
07-20-2010, 12:58 PM
I guess this makes you 'Banana King' LOL Hope you get lots of nanas. BTW, YOU STINK!!:)
momoese
07-20-2010, 01:04 PM
Hey Bob, I just noticed that the flower bud looks like it's going to hang on the neighbors side of the fence. If they are not cool with having a bunch prop pole on their property than you might want start figuring out a way to get the flower leaning your way.
Jack Daw
07-20-2010, 02:00 PM
Oh, no, Bob, your Ice Cream is changing into the corn. It will fruit 60 small corns. :)
Congrats pal!
:woohoonaner:
Thanks HBL ,Matt, Greg and "Banana Queen" Patty.
Mitchel..... you've seen my dogs right? :ha: Can I borrow yours too?
Jack ...... if there's anyone who would have an ear of corn pop out it would be me but..... I'm feeling lucky this time:woohoonaner: If it is corn I'm sending it overseas for your next party:ha:.... Thanks man!
I'll post more when the ear...er , ahhh... bud pops out.
timmko
07-20-2010, 04:39 PM
That is great....keep us updated...:nanadrink::woohoonaner:
One question though does anyone know how many times you can cut the plant down to winter indoors? IS there a limit to how much it can take? I will have to cut down my ice cream as it is now over 8ft and just wanted it for looks not fruit. I am in Wisconsin and have no hopes of fruit ripeining up here. Can you also cut off the flower to save the plant?? I have 6 large plants now and will have to plan ahead as summer is half over :woohoonaner:already
I'm not sure anyone really knows the answer to how many times a banana can be cut back over a few years but.... In theory as long as it hasn't flowered and it can be kept in good conditions it could be done as many times as you need to. Once it flowers it's done so if it flowers too late in the season just cut the mother plant to the ground and propagate one of the pups keeping the main corm attached to add vigor to the pup( I'd look up a flower bud recipe anyway and enjoy that!). The one thing no one can predict is when it's cut back how far along the bud is at that stage so it's possible that you're effectively killing it anyway....it's all kind of a crapshoot for northern growers. My attitude is if you keep trying eventually you'll have some success. Ice creams will grow to huge heights in the tropics so 8' doesn't seem to be any problem for cutting this variety.
harveyc
07-21-2010, 11:49 AM
Folks mow their lawns hundreds of times. I wonder how fat a corm could get if it was chopped back each year for, say, 10 years...... just wondering.
LilRaverBoi
07-21-2010, 12:50 PM
I'm fairly certain you could cut a banana plant back as many times as you wanted....until the plant decides to bloom/fruit. At this point, when you chop it back, you either force the bloom to come out sooner (less pstem to ascend) with fewer leaves....or you chop it off. If the bloom comes out without many leaves to support the bunch, it likely won't develop into many fruit (if any). If you happen to cut below the inflorescence, then the main plant will die, as it has basically completed its life cycle. There will be pups to take its place, though, so it's not really 'dead'....just the main plant is done-for.
Abnshrek
07-21-2010, 01:43 PM
Folks mow their lawns hundreds of times. I wonder how fat a corm could get if it was chopped back each year for, say, 10 years...... just wondering.
That would be one gnarly banana stump after nine years.. lol :^)
harveyc
07-21-2010, 01:59 PM
There's an old discussion about how somewhere in a tropical region (don't remember where now), but some folks cut back a plant and believe it fruits at a shorter height. There are other discussions that it will still fruit at the same height as if it wasn't cut. I'm not sure what to make of it.
hammer
07-21-2010, 02:15 PM
I had to cut back alot of banana plants this year. im affraid to cut a whole lot on my bananas because we might cut to low and cut the bloom off in the psteam.
I think cutting it back definitely reduces the flowering height. Ice Cream bananas should get to 12-14 feet withought cutting. Mine's only about (almost) 8' at this point and has had 7 ft cut off over the past two years in fall. I think age in relation to active growth time is more the key.
The Hollyberry Lady
07-21-2010, 04:08 PM
I think it's time for another pic, Bob...
Or did the person you paid to sell you those shots, only give you the two?! :ha:
: )
oh ... you're a riot Hollyberry. I'll post again in a few days when the bud is out. Thanks!
Hi Bob,
Congrats on your success!
Since I live in Dallas, Texas, I think I will try your method but I dont get how you brought it in, was it in a pot or just the pstem with a root clump that you kept alive until spring?
Thanks
CookieCows
07-21-2010, 10:26 PM
Bob congrats!!!!!! What a GREAT year huh?!! I believe we all can have nanas!! :woohoonaner:
CoryS
07-21-2010, 10:41 PM
Hi Bob,
Congrats on your success!
Since I live in Dallas, Texas, I think I will try your method but I dont get how you brought it in, was it in a pot or just the pstem with a root clump that you kept alive until spring?
Thanks
I'll second that question... since I want to try that method of yours! :D
The Hollyberry Lady
07-22-2010, 02:03 AM
Sorry Bob, couldn't resist the crack about you buying the pics! LoL! :ha:
I know your wife took the great shots though, and we sure appreciate it.
by CookieCows...
Bob congrats!!!!!! What a GREAT year huh?!! I believe we all can have nanas!!
If I got bananas, I'd have to watch over them night and day. Between the coons and the thieves, they wouldn't stand a chance! I'd have to hire a banana bodyguard! :ha:
: )
Bananaman88
07-22-2010, 12:02 PM
Congrats, Bob! I can't even get mine to fruit in Houston! This will be it's second full season in the ground. It was planted spring/summer of 2008. Not sure what is taking it so long but it is huge right now. I keep expecting the flag any day.
Patty in Wisc
07-22-2010, 01:43 PM
"Not sure what is taking it so long but it is huge right now. I keep expecting the flag any day."
This is when & why you shouldn't cut it back! There was someone here who cut theirs back & showed pics of the cut flower... I think Jarred put it in wiki.
I never cut mine back - esp last year cuz I figured it was close to flowering. My Pstem is just less than 8 ft. Hoping you get a whopping bunch Bob!
I thought I had 31 nANAs on 3 hands but now that the petals opened, I see that some of those are male blossoms so I really have 18 nanas. It's OK... I'm happy w/ that:)
nph and Cory, I grow most of my bananas in the ground and dig them up (hopefully ) before the first frost. Some of the big ones can be surprisingly heavy and a handtruck is a big help and backsaver. I have my front porch turned in to a greenhouse for the winter and cut them back just enough to fit in comfortably in their winter pots.. If I didn't absolutley have to cut them I wouldn't so it's always a bit of a gamble. Ensetes by the way as well as some bananas can be stored dormant with great succes as well. Check out the "Putting the bananas to sleep for the winter" thread by Bigdog.. I think it's in the cold hardy section. It's a classic.
Deb , I cant believe how many of us growers farther north have been having some luck this year. I think because alot of us have been doing it a while now and this has been a much warmer year than last for most or all of us too. Whatever the case.. it's been good ..... and not over yet!:ha: Does prove with a bit of luck and experience we ALL CAN be successful.
Brent...... you may want to move to a more northerly climate zone!:ha:
Bananaman88
07-22-2010, 03:02 PM
Brent...... you may want to move to a more northerly climate zone!:ha:
No kidding, Bob! You all are having some great success up there. Mine made it through this past witner just fine and I probably only had to cut less than a foot off of it to get back to firm growth. I'd estimate that it is easily 15' or better to the tip of the tallest leaf with about 6' of clear pstem. It's got to be soon.
This is the pup from last year. The main plant last year tried to put out a bud just as we had a big cold snap so I lost it. Hopefully it'll fruit in the next couple of weeks. I'm running out of warm weather!
CookieCows
07-22-2010, 03:32 PM
"Not sure what is taking it so long but it is huge right now. I keep expecting the flag any day."
This is when & why you shouldn't cut it back! There was someone here who cut theirs back & showed pics of the cut flower... I think Jarred put it in wiki.
I never cut mine back - esp last year cuz I figured it was close to flowering. My Pstem is just less than 8 ft. Hoping you get a whopping bunch Bob!
I thought I had 31 nANAs on 3 hands but now that the petals opened, I see that some of those are male blossoms so I really have 18 nanas. It's OK... I'm happy w/ that:)
I don't know if anyone besides me posted pictures of this miss-hap but this poor sucker sounds like me :ha: I had a rot problem if I remember correctly from too much heat/humidity and not enough air flow two winters ago in the room I keep them in and had to keep cutting the p-stem down and then the base of the flower popped out after I planted it outside. I posted a couple pics last year of it. Figures I might get in the wiki for .. what not to do!! haha
Patty I need to go look at yours! I have been so busy that I haven't gotten to very many threads lately.
Patty in Wisc
07-22-2010, 11:31 PM
I'll post a pic soon. Been busy too. Modem wants to shut down a lot & blow me off internet so I'm getting diff one. Mike just bought me a lap top & trying to get used to it ...What a guy!!! Then I can go wireles maybe soon.We had a wild day with weather... tornados, thunderstorms , floods. We had 8 inches in just over 2 hours. Many streets & freeways are closed.
Here it is today growing fast!:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0379.jpg
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0378.jpg
The suspense is killing me:ha:
The Hollyberry Lady
07-23-2010, 04:57 PM
Wow, totally cool Bob! Looks terrific. Great shots.
: )
CoryS
07-23-2010, 05:29 PM
That's the first photo I've ever seen of a banana plant flower just starting to grow. Thanks for sharing! :D I hope you'll take more photos while it develops and btw, it's definitely not an ear of corn! :ha: Congrats!
CookieCows
07-23-2010, 11:58 PM
R those little nanas poking out the end??? :woohoonaner:
R those little nanas poking out the end??? :woohoonaner:
No , I think the bananas will form more towards the base of the flower as the petals open...... but I really have no clue until I see them.
ron_mcb
07-24-2010, 01:13 PM
congratulations bob. since im down here in the south now i will have to get at least 2 or 3 to flower this year. so i wont look bad. .:bananas_b
LilRaverBoi
07-24-2010, 01:15 PM
Yeah, all I see is a cute lil flag leaf and the tip of the inflorescence. The naners come from the base of the bracts (basically the petals of the flower).
Patty in Wisc
07-24-2010, 01:36 PM
http://www.bananas.org/gallery/watermark.php?file=34353&size=1 (http://www.bananas.org/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=34353&ppuser=432)
Here's a pic I took recently of my first hand. The petal is rolled back.
john_ny
07-24-2010, 03:11 PM
Way to go, Patty!
CoryS
07-24-2010, 04:53 PM
Congrats Patty! Those bananas seem to have flowers on each one. Incredible!
Patty in Wisc
07-25-2010, 12:57 PM
Thanks guys. The first hand has 7 nanas...all female blossoms. The 2nd hand has 6 female blossoms (real nanas) &2 male blossoms. The 3rd hand has 4 female blossoms & about 6 male blossoms & the rest are all male blossoms (no nanas).
Bob, when the first petAL OPENS & there's nothing there, don't worry. I had nothing under the 1st 4 petals. It's fun to see the lumps/bulges under the petals before they open!:)
LilRaverBoi
07-25-2010, 01:04 PM
I kinda thought hands were either all male or all female flowers. I didn't realize they could be mix/matched like that.
momoese
07-25-2010, 04:21 PM
No , I think the bananas will form more towards the base of the flower as the petals open...... but I really have no clue until I see them.
The fingers will be right where the fattest part of the flower bud is now. Looking good so far!
aash09
07-25-2010, 07:38 PM
It's fun to see the lumps/bulges under the petals before they open!:)
Thanks Patty! I can feel the lumps under the petals. 2 have opened so far, and I haven't noticed any scent yet. It's been great weather for the plants this year. I hope it keeps up!
Patty in Wisc
07-25-2010, 11:32 PM
I didn't notice any scent at all Anne.
I will bet you get 45 nanas!!!:)
The Hollyberry Lady
07-26-2010, 07:05 AM
I think you need to post some more shots, Bob. :goteam: After all, this is likely one of your greatest gardening accomplishments to date and you should show that thing off everyday. Load this thread up with pics of that baby!
If it was mine, I'd be showing 10 shots daily. :ha: You worked hard to get to this and you deserve 100% of the glory. You are one hell of a gardener, I must say. That thing is just awesome! Have you called the newspapers yet? :ha:
Sure hope you get lots of bananas on it, also. The anticipation is very exciting. Please show it more. We wanna see too...
: )
cherokee_greg
07-26-2010, 08:50 AM
:woohoonaner: Great job !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
CookieCows
07-26-2010, 12:19 PM
Well I thought forsure that heavy pollen smell came from my banana flower! I could smell it when I walked past it .... maybe it was coming from another plant but I can't think of anything floral that was nearby!
HBL , I'll post some shots as soon as it does anything at all.... thanks for the compliments..... much appreciated.
Ron.... wish I were growing in Georgia!!!! I guess the challenge of it is the big thing for me up here. If I were in Florida I'd be trying to grow Colorado blue spruce I think:ha:
Deb, I didn't notice any scent either but maybe when the first actual flowers come out from under the sepals it will then.... that's what I'm hoping for anyway.
Some of you asked so here it is today, the first two petals on the bud opened and aren't showing anything as expected but there's definitely some strange bumps I expect to end up as fruits under the next sepal which I'm impatiently waiting to open:ha: The flag leaf has been bent down with the weight of the bud so I may prop it sooner than later just to be safe.
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0412.jpg
Abnshrek
07-27-2010, 06:37 PM
Great update Bob :^) May there be many banana's under the rest to open up (and not male flowers).. :^)
Patty in Wisc
07-27-2010, 07:40 PM
Hope you don't mind me posting a pic of mine:) I just took this today w/ my phone cam. You can see the rest will be all male flowers.http://www.bananas.org/gallery/watermark.php?file=34889&size=1 (http://www.bananas.org/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=34889&ppuser=432)
momoese
07-27-2010, 07:55 PM
I'm thinking the next bract to open with reveal some bananas!
Patty in Wisc
07-27-2010, 08:18 PM
Here's one more. There is a real,l little one - bottom center that I wasn't sure if it was female, but it's growing. It's the only nana on that hand (4th), so, I got 18 nanas:) I'm sure you & Anne will have more :) The rest are all male flowers now.http://www.bananas.org/gallery/watermark.php?file=34890&size=1 (http://www.bananas.org/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=34890&ppuser=432)
I don't know why this looks the way it does..pic is s'posed to be at bottom
Patty , it's looking great and I'm glad you're posting them here. keep'em coming!:woohoonaner:
So I get up today and check it first thing at 5:30 am expecting little or nothing but......
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0414.jpg
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0416.jpg
The next sepal opened and .... they look like bananas to me!:goteam:
( sorry for the blurry pic but .... havent had a coffee yet:ha:)
Now I just have to figure out how to shrink these pics a bit....... probably ask a kid!
Abnshrek
07-28-2010, 05:06 AM
Totally understandable Bob I think if someone went to the backyard and saw bananas they might need a stiff cup of coffee whether they drink coffee or not.. Just to settle down a bit & relax.. Woo Hoo... Bob has Banana's :^) :nanadrink: :woohoonaner: Congrat's :woohoonaner:
Dalmatiansoap
07-28-2010, 05:18 AM
:woohoonaner:
Dean W.
07-28-2010, 05:22 AM
Looking good, Bob!:0519:
Caloosamusa
07-28-2010, 05:49 AM
Congratulations Patty and Bob! They look great!! :2239:
Bananaman88
07-28-2010, 07:06 AM
I continue to be jealous that your IC bloomed before mine, Bob! Mine is putting out yet another leaf. It isn't all the way out yet but I keep hoping that the next one will be shorter and then the flag. Oh well, it'll do it when it's ready I guess.
My 'Cal. Gold' fruit are still developing but no signs of a bud on the 'Raja Puri' yet.
momoese
07-28-2010, 09:05 AM
Sweet! Get to work now on that heated green house!
Patty in Wisc
07-28-2010, 10:22 AM
Yeay Bob & Anne! How many nanas on that 1st hand?
DaveE
07-28-2010, 10:53 AM
Now we are talking, keep those female flowers coming!
:bananas_b
hammer
07-28-2010, 11:45 AM
I continue to be jealous that your IC bloomed before mine, Bob! Mine is putting out yet another leaf. It isn't all the way out yet but I keep hoping that the next one will be shorter and then the flag. Oh well, it'll do it when it's ready I guess.
My 'Cal. Gold' fruit are still developing but no signs of a bud on the 'Raja Puri' yet. How many nanners do you have on your cal gold
now.:woohoonaner:
Sweet! Get to work now on that heated green house!
Wish I could...... I'm already hatching some plans for a double platic greenhouse over it so maybe I can get some to ripen with some luck and a warm fall. Maybe some sort of passive heat retention beyond that though I don't have it all worked out yet.
Yeay Bob & Anne! How many nanas on that 1st hand?
There's 5 on this one. The next sepal started opening already so.... I'll keep staring at it all night to insure rapid growth:ha:
The Hollyberry Lady
07-28-2010, 04:29 PM
Totally awesome, Bob! http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/2.gif
I've got one thing to say...
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/a21.gif
: o
Woops! Wrong banner! A step up from "you stink" though, isn't it!!! The banner I meant to post was...
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/congratulations.jpg :ha::ha::ha:
All jokes aside, I think it's just terrific what you've done, and I sure am proud of you. Hats off to you, MG! http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/clap.gif
You know what "MG" stands for, right? Master Gardener, of course!
I hope you know I expect a homemade banana loaf, baked and sent my way shortly
after harvest? http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo1.gif
Thanks for the great shots. You should be very proud of yourself. An excellent gardening accomplishment. Enjoy.
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/aa93.gif
CoryS
07-28-2010, 05:30 PM
Congrats Bob! :D Great work for zone 6a! Keep the photos coming... whether you need coffee for a hangover or not! :ha: :D
Thanks Hollyberry, I think the "KMA" banner might be the nicest thing you've said to me.... what's come over you?:ha:
I'll start looking up some recipes now so I'm ready when they ripen....... go wait by the window:ha: Coming from you being called a master gardener is ..... flattering ( stunned really)
Thanks Cory.... another sepal opened overnight and now there's 6 more bananas. The next one feels like it may have a lot going on under there. I'll post soon. Thanks for the encouragement.
Bananaman88
07-29-2010, 06:32 AM
How many nanners do you have on your cal gold
now.:woohoonaner:
A WHOPPING 23!!! Yes, that's sarcasm you detect there. I was a bit disappointed with the low count but had been told to expect that the first time it fruited so I can't say it was totally unexpected.
The Hollyberry Lady
07-29-2010, 07:43 AM
Oh please, don't be so modest...you know you're an incredible gardener! Likely got the biggest head in Jersey now because of your success! :ha: Seen it all, done it all, and grown it all now, eh?
Nevermind looking for a recipe. I'll give you my grandmother's...
If you ever wanna taste that homemade jerky I make, you better get busy on that loaf when the time is right! :ha:
Also, you haven't received that box from me yet, have you? I could put a stop hold on it!
Very cool though. Can't wait to see more shots...
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/smil17.jpg
Seems I'm getting a new hand each day, the third opened last night and it feels like there's a lot more to come..... 16 fingers so far ( my neighbors think I'm nuts out fondling the bud all the time but.... it's the first one ever):woohoonaner::
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0432.jpg
CoryS
07-31-2010, 12:22 AM
That's growing fast! And it's definitely NOT corn! :ha: Great work! Keep the photos coming!
harveyc
07-31-2010, 12:30 AM
Bob, if you have some nectar hanging from some of your bananas, I think you should wait until your neighbor is around and lick some of it off and offer to let him try it out! He'll probably stay away from you after that! :ha:
Bob, if you have some nectar hanging from some of your bananas, I think you should wait until your neighbor is around and lick some of it off and offer to let him try it out! He'll probably stay away from you after that! :ha:
Funny you mention that Harvey, Mitchel mentioned that yesterday to my wife on another forum though my response kind of strayed from gardening and isn't fit for print.:ha: In any case I was out there doing just that last night....... haven't seen the neighbors since!
( 8 more fingers this morning bringing the total to24)
Patty in Wisc
07-31-2010, 11:43 PM
Isn't this fun that we get nanas just about 2 weeks apart!;) You & Anne are banana King & Queen...you have more than my 18 count.
It is cool that we got them and the same variety to flower so close in time. You're the banana queen though.... the fruit count really doesn't matter, it's the acomplishment for us gardeners in the cold zones to even get one to this point that is so cool... For me at least I think the king isn't quite right..... more like the joker:ha:
The Hollyberry Lady
08-02-2010, 03:27 PM
There sure are a lot of stretches of wild imaginations in this thread and nothing wrong with having a good sense of humor...so thanks for the laughs. I for one, love a good joke. :ha:
Bob, your bananas are looking good enough to eat! :goteam:
I'd really love to see some more shots of them and think you should show them off constantly. After all, this is your thread. I've never watched this process before and would like to see it more closely. Get that camera out and snap another shot, will ya?
I sure hope you get a chance to ripen some of those babies, so I can get that banana loaf
after all! :ha: I've got a recipe of my grandmother's that you can follow...
How are the neighbor's now? Still think you're nutz? I understand the enthusiasm and excitement, as all of us gardeners do. Pretty cool that you get to see it all up-close and personal like that...you lucky bugger!
Jealous & banana-less in London,
HbL
: )
Jack Daw
08-02-2010, 05:46 PM
You know, Bob, it's exciting for me to watch the progress in pictures, I wonder how you can even sleep.
Then I read one of your posts in this thread, when you took pics at 5:30am and found out that you probably no longer bother with sleeping. :ha:
Thanks for the encouragement HBL, Jack and all! Yeah... truth be told I go out to it first thing in the morning , when I get home from work and sometimes in the middle of the night ( thats when the new sepals open to reveal the little bananas and flowers after every warm day) It's up to 40 bananas now though they seem to get progressively smaller..... not sure if this is normal. I'll post another shot real soon ( I was afraid of posting daily but now realize alot of us havent seen this process and of course its the first time I've seen it too...... I overheard my next door neighbors saying it was amazing yesterday( and my head swelled a bit:ha:)
ok here's some shots I just took of the bunch:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0461.jpg
Here's the latest hand which has 10 fingers which is the most ever but they're very small in comparison to the first few hands that appeared:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0463.jpg
Let's see what tomorrow brings....?
Jack Daw
08-03-2010, 04:26 PM
Bob, there's no humanly possible way that you would overfeed us with your pix. Keep 'em comin'! ;)
The Hollyberry Lady
08-03-2010, 04:38 PM
Agree with Jack wholeheartedly...show us pics everyday, Bob.
Those are just simply...wow! Love them. How ornamental they are and the way the sun catches them in the pics is too cool. Can't believe how much they've grown!
More pics tomorrow and everyday, please...
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/flowerpink.gif
CoryS
08-03-2010, 04:44 PM
This is great! :D Like everyone keeps saying, keep those photos coming! If mine ever does that, I'll prolly wear my cam down taking photos! :ha:
momoese
08-03-2010, 05:05 PM
Those last flowers are looking male to me. Pretty soon you'll have to decide whether or not to cut off the bud.
pineapplefarmerwannabe
08-03-2010, 05:09 PM
looks great cant wait till see how fast they grow down south
LilRaverBoi
08-03-2010, 07:58 PM
Yeah, the smaller looking fruit are probably male flowers that won't develop into fruit. Looks great so far, though!
Ok and thanks all again for the advice and encouragement. I'm convinced now after some reading that these are indeed just male flowers coming out on the last 2 groups that opened(including one that opened last night).Now I can clearly see the difference so my official total is down to 31 fingers. I'll probably give it a few days to elongate more before I cut it off and will take some more pictures .......
Anyone have a good recipe for the bud? I have one in mind thats a coconut based soup from Sri Lanka (google) but am open to suggestions.
sandy0225
08-04-2010, 07:16 AM
So totally cool! I'm happy for you. I know you've been wanting this for a long time now. Congratulations!
Patty in Wisc
08-04-2010, 08:48 AM
I'm cutting my flower off today. How big are the nanas on that first hand? Could you take a pic w/ maybe a ruler alongside?
LilRaverBoi
08-04-2010, 12:16 PM
Could you take a pic w/ maybe a ruler alongside?
Don't let Patty fool you into sizing up your naner, Bob! :ha::ha::ha:
The Hollyberry Lady
08-04-2010, 12:47 PM
:ha: Good one, Bryan! :ha:
Is there even a ruler out there though, capable of measuring something so...
nevermind! http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo1.gif
Sure hope you'll post another shot of your fruits today, Bob...
: )
hammer
08-04-2010, 02:33 PM
Ok and thanks all again for the advice and encouragement. I'm convinced now after some reading that these are indeed just male flowers coming out on the last 2 groups that opened(including one that opened last night).Now I can clearly see the difference so my official total is down to 31 fingers. I'll probably give it a few days to elongate more before I cut it off and will take some more pictures .......
Anyone have a good recipe for the bud? I have one in mind thats a coconut based soup from Sri Lanka (google) but am open to suggestions.
Very nice Bob is this your first nananers.:woohoonaner:
So totally cool! I'm happy for you. I know you've been wanting this for a long time now. Congratulations!
Thanks Sandy, yeah its been a long time ..... Big Thanks to you for my first fruiting banana!!!!
I'm cutting my flower off today. How big are the nanas on that first hand? Could you take a pic w/ maybe a ruler alongside?
Don't let Patty fool you into sizing up your naner, Bob! :ha::ha::ha:
Yeah Bryan, I figured eventually it would come to this:ha:
:ha: Good one, Bryan! :ha:
Is there even a ruler out there though, capable of measuring something so...
nevermind! http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo1.gif
Sure hope you'll post another shot of your fruits today, Bob...
: )
Very nice Bob is this your first nananers.:woohoonaner:
Thanks Hammer, yeah this is my first one after almost 2 years growing them so I'm thrilled.
Patty and HBL........ You girls are all alike,.... this has never happened to me so.........http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/th_home-alone1243399120.png (http://s570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/?action=view¤t=home-alone1243399120.png)
........I'm feeling kind of gun shy...... Patty you show yours first then I'll show mine........
and I'd better hear none of these things:
"Ahh, they're cute"
"I'm sorry"
"Can I be honest with you?"
"Maybe if we water it, it'll grow".
"Is that an optical illusion?"
"It's a good thing you have so many other talents".......etc. etc!!!!
Seriously they're still pretty small but I will take a pic with a ruler or something for scale soon and then keep documenting it's progress........right after I water it for an hour and pray!:ha:
LilRaverBoi
08-04-2010, 04:16 PM
Yeah Bryan, I figured eventually it would come to this:ha:
Anyone who knows me well (or even at all) knows that I only need half an opportunity to insert inappropriate comments. :ha:
The Hollyberry Lady
08-04-2010, 05:09 PM
Bob, that's just too funny! :ha:
Bryan, (with a "y" of course)...
I enjoy your "inappropriate" comments and get a chuckle out of your posts. :waving:
: )
LilRaverBoi
08-04-2010, 08:17 PM
I dunno, I kinda have to bite my tongue sometimes because I realize some members here are easily offended.....but it's hard for me to completely refrain from comments (especially if given such good set-ups! :ha: ). Just hope everyone realizes it's all in good fun!
Patty in Wisc
08-05-2010, 10:41 AM
OK you clowns! Yeah, I'll show you mine if you show me yours LOL.
I don't know what the ave size is of IC. Mine have been growing very slow it seems. The biggest are about 3 1/2 inches now. I have A SMaller plant so I'm sure my nanas will be smaller than yours Bob.
Bananaman88
08-05-2010, 12:09 PM
Come on, Bob, don't be shy. There's a ruler in one of my pics in my post about my 'Cal. Gold' bloom!
OK you clowns! Yeah, I'll show you mine if you show me yours LOL.
I don't know what the ave size is of IC. Mine have been growing very slow it seems. The biggest are about 3 1/2 inches now. I have A SMaller plant so I'm sure my nanas will be smaller than yours Bob.
ok here's mine!It's kind of small yet as well. Tomorrow I'm cutting off the bud for dinner!..... and 2 of the 3 pups.
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0474.jpg
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0471.jpg
Rats!....... knew it wasn't as big as I thought!:ha:
MediaHound
08-06-2010, 03:20 PM
lol
momoese
08-07-2010, 08:17 PM
Hey Bob, your other half asked me for ideas. Yeah I know, scary thought.
Banana flower salad - Bananas.org (http://www.bananas.org/showthread.php?p=138027#post138027)
Thanks Mitchel, I responded in your post. I decided to wait a bit to let the stem elongate to allow for dessication so I'll wait and be trying this recipe for sure.
The Hollyberry Lady
08-08-2010, 02:15 PM
Wow, things are sure looking good, Bob. Didn't know yours would be that sizey! :ha:
Let us know how that recipe turns out for you. Being the Gourmet Chef that you are, I'm sure it'll be amazing, no doubt.
Do we have to wait another 6 days before you'll post another shot of your bananas? http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo1.gif Now that we've all seen your measurements, you shouldn't leave us hanging! :ha::ha:
Can't wait to see them again...
: )
CoryS
08-08-2010, 06:25 PM
Checking back on this thread has gotten very tricky... :ha: Size isn't everything and those bananas look awesome! [I hope that was safe...]. In any event, keep the photos coming! They could get bigger! :D
Thanks all, I think the best that northern gardeners can really expect is some slightly stunted fruit anyway and after it flowers, it's all a bonus( with luck a tasty bonus if the fruit ripens:ha:). I'll post more pics soon. I decided letting the bud grow just a bit longer to allow for some drying up before I cut it would be a good idea so...........not for dinner tonight!
harveyc
08-08-2010, 07:15 PM
Bob, I'll pass on some thoughts for your consideration. Despite the fact that it would make it harder to stare at your nanners, you might want to bag your bunch. I've used some pale green garbage bags. I've read that it might help hasten growth of the fruit and I imagine it can help retain some temperature so that seems feasible. Also, I've left my late season fruit hanging on until very heavy frost or until the leaves all turn brown. I've had even very small fruits ripen up to be better than anything I've had from the store.
Best of luck, pal!
ShearMe
08-13-2010, 07:00 PM
ZOMG, now I know what to look for on mine.
CONGRATS DUDE!
Patty in Wisc
08-14-2010, 01:23 PM
We've had a lot of heat lately (and humidity!) but mine don't seem to want to grow. They are still 2 - 3 1/2 inches. My flower is in crisper - don't know what to do w/ it.
CoryS
08-14-2010, 01:48 PM
Knock knock! :D It has been a week. Did they get bigger? The suspense is killing me!
Patty: ??? Heat + humidity = no growth?! How hot is it there?
ok here's the latest from just a while ago.... I finally cut off the bud... which is now a (very small) salad.
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0494_crop.jpg
the cut bunch... the bananas are getting a little fatter but no excessive growth yet:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0495.jpg
Like Harvey reccomended I bagged the bunch but with a translucent bag so I still get to keep an eye on them..
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0498.jpg
We'll see what happens....?
The Hollyberry Lady
08-14-2010, 06:30 PM
Wow Bob! Totally awesome! :goteam:
Thanks for finally showing us!!! :ha:
Good luck with the bag method...
: )
ron_mcb
08-14-2010, 06:50 PM
good luck,and be careful bob.. be sure to let them breathe enough... i had some of the breathable banana bags a while ago, i would have sent you a few... they seems to have walked away.
Dalmatiansoap
08-14-2010, 07:03 PM
Hey, that banana knife finally does what it does the best
:nanadrink:
Thanks Harvey , Zac , Patty ,Cory( I needed the encouragement to post more and didn't want to overdo it) , Sherry, Ron and Ante. :goteam: Ron , I'll definitely cut some small air holes in the bag when it warms... good tip and I might not have thought of it until it was too late. Yup... I finally got to use that banana knife for its intended use...instead of just trimming the leaves. With a lot of luck I'll be able to cut a few hands off in a few months.... fingers crossed.
ShearMe
08-15-2010, 06:11 AM
YES! Keep them coming to feed our insatiable hunger of bananas.
Also, what is this banana knife everyone's talking about behind my back?
The Hollyberry Lady
08-15-2010, 06:13 AM
Yeah, I wanna see it...
: )
momoese
08-15-2010, 09:57 AM
They will need air despite the temp Bob. I thought that real bunch bags are completely open on the bottom. Ron?
john_ny
08-15-2010, 03:31 PM
Lookin' good, Bob! BTW, where did you get that bag?
CoryS
08-15-2010, 05:21 PM
Overdo it?! Photos?! No way! :D You couldn't post enough photos! This is almost as exciting for me [and possibly others], as it is for you, since I've never seen bananas developing on a banana plant before.
But say what?! "in a few months... cutting hands of bananas"?! They must require a lot of time to ripen. I need to read some more...
Don't forget, though, Momoese says you need the holes whatever the temps are. :)
Zac and HBL ,here's the banana knife. it's an inexpensive , short tang curved at the end blade .....crudely wired to a wooden handle meant to cut hands off the bunch for commercial packers. Got it last year and I'm surprised Ante remembered it.... actually knowing him not surprised at all!!!!:ha: I had to add the electrical tape to keep from cutting my hands on the wire and have only used it to cut leaves off when pruning lower leaves off of the plants for more light and air circulation.. I thought I'd use it to cut off the flower since I didn't have a Panama hat or sombrero :ha:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0500.jpg
John, these are recycling bags meant for bottles and cans from the local grocery store.
It's cool and rainy today here but Ill be cutting some small ventilation holes tomorrow morning... I'd be interested to hear more about what the bags the commercial growers use are like though.
Cory , I promise to post pics as soon as anything ( however insubstantial.... and believe me I notice it all) develops... thanks for the encouragement man!:woohoonaner:
The Hollyberry Lady
08-15-2010, 11:24 PM
Wow - that's a heck of a knife! If my neighbor were walking around with that thing though, I'd be afraid! http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo13.gif It's rather...intimidating looking, to say the least.
You carrying that knife around your yard kind of takes away from the image I had of you...
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/garden1.gif
Now I imagine you more like this...
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/halloweenjason.gif
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/flower_lol2.gif
I for one must give you hell though Bob, for not posting as many shots as you could have. I've never seen anything like this and you can tell that things have changed a great deal from one shot to the next. http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo2.gif Even how things began to raise up...I would have liked to have seen it.
Not too mad at ya, but more pics please. The People demand it, and you wouldn't want to be demoted from being the Banana King, now would you! http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo1.gif
It's just too cool. I would be so amazed to see something like that around here. I think my neighbors would pass out!
I promise that I will show (((((DAILY))))) shots, if and when I ever get bananas to grow here and won't make people wait weeks to see them. :ha:
Thanks for showing the knife, Bob. I thought you'd show us next year!
: )
sunfish
08-16-2010, 07:28 AM
Green Harvest - Plant Protection (http://www.greenharvest.com.au/tools/plant_protection_prod.html)
Banana bunch covering (http://www2.dpi.qld.gov.au/horticulture/4988.html)
momoese
08-16-2010, 10:01 AM
Green Harvest - Plant Protection (http://www.greenharvest.com.au/tools/plant_protection_prod.html)
Banana bunch covering (http://www2.dpi.qld.gov.au/horticulture/4988.html)
Yep, completely open at the bottom according to the first link.
Gabe15
08-16-2010, 11:39 AM
Here is an example of the bunch bags I saw in use on a farm in Zhongshan, Guangdong, China. They are open at the bottom with holes along the side, basically a tube they slip over the bunch which is tied off around the peduncle. They are more or less just used for protection to keep the fruit looking pristine. You can also see through the plastic they have already placed sheets of foam between the hands to keep the fingers from knocking against each other.
http://www.bananas.org/gallery/watermark.php?file=35755&size=1 (http://www.bananas.org/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=35755&ppuser=5)
Thanks all, I have made holes in the bag and cut the bottom for drainage.
HBL, promise to post any further developments and I forget that those like me not long ago would love to see all the growth spurts and all that goes on.... Thanks for the constant encouragement.
The Hollyberry Lady
08-16-2010, 08:20 PM
Uh huh...I've heard it all before Bob, and predict your next picture will be posted...next Sunday!
Thanks for the constant encouragement.
More like harassment! http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo1.gif
And you can expect more of it, if I don't see some shots soon (before Sunday) :ha: Quit holding out on us and be more forthcoming with the peeks.
So, how long will this process take anyway, for them to grow fully and ripen? Will there actually be a chance for you to harvest yellow ripe bananas before frost hits, with this bag method?!
: o
You're so lucky!
: )
I promise more shot(s) before Sunday though I don't know what progress would be made since the last photo. The real success of course is just having brought the plant to this point and I think that getting ripe fruit from this variety would only be a bonus since I have no plans for a heated greenouse. Ice Cream usually takes 5-6 months to ripen and I think shorter cycle bananas such as Veinte Cohol which are 2 months to ripen are a more practical choice for those in the north...... even then it's tough to predict when the flower may come.
I'm going to build a plastic tent( maybe two) to cover it when the weather cools and see if I can't get them at least most of the way to ripening before cutting the bunch .... and hope for a warm fall:ha:
The Hollyberry Lady
08-17-2010, 09:26 AM
Let us be the judge of whether anything's changed and just please post the shots so we can see for ourselves...
I think you better start sending me some private phone shots of that thing on an hourly basis! :ha: It's too fricken cool and I wanna see it more!
When did you want that recipe for my grandmother's banana loaf? http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo1.gif
: )
Patty in Wisc
08-17-2010, 10:48 AM
Bob, someone can correct me if I'm wrong, but maturing & ripening are different. Right now we want our fruit to mature which should take about 3 months or little more. Then it will take more time to ripen & they can do that after we cut the bunch down. They can ripen in the house.
I saw that recipe that Momo posted. Did you try that? How was it? Benny always said his wife likes the flowers more than nanas so she can cook them but he hasn't responded yet to my email.
HBL.... you'll have to wait like everyone else....Plplplth!
Patty I'm really not sure about maturing and ripening since I never had to care. I hope you're right though since I'd be able to take them in earlier in the fall and ripen them indoors.
I made my own corruption of the banana flower recipe , I used the same dressing as the recipe called for but with a third of a Bhut Jolockia pepper and a green cayenne that I knocked off accidently when weeding. It was pretty hot but, not too hot. Very good actually. I pretty much followed the rest of the recipe except that it called for 2 flower buds and I only had one( small one) so I cut up some tomatoes that I have in abundance in large chunks and let them drain in a collander for about an hour so they didn't add too much liquid to the salad. A good hint would be not to use too much towards the fat part of the bud and just settle for the tender parts towards the tip ... they were excellent but the upper portion was a bit tough....live and learn.
ShearMe
08-17-2010, 01:02 PM
Patty is right... bananas we buy in the store are green and then they slowly turn yellow and ripen. I read somewhere about fruits that ripen/don't ripen off the plant, and bananas DO ripen off the plant. You still wanna wait as long as possible to get bigger and yummier fruits, though, don't leave them on too long... you don't want banana cotton!
Stages of a Ripening Banana | eHow.com (http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4601159_stages-ripening-banana.html)
And don't you dare throw away a brown mushy banana, those are the sweetest and perfect for use in baking.
:pics:
Patty in Wisc
08-17-2010, 01:45 PM
Ahhh, soft brown nanas are the best for nana bread! :)
ShearMe
08-17-2010, 01:50 PM
Ahhh, soft brown nanas are the best for nana bread! :)
Anything else just isn't quite as good... :ukkibannana:
The Hollyberry Lady
08-17-2010, 03:55 PM
You know...
I never would have thought of it unless Patty mentioned it but she's definitely right about 'maturing' and 'ripening' being two separate things. Not surprised you can ripen them off the vine, like tomatoes with newspapers in dark boxes.
Zac raises a good point I forgot about also, how I often buy green bananas at the grocery store and they ripen within a few days on my table.
So you really have a chance to eat some of them, Bob! :02:
I'm looking for my grandmother's recipe now...
: )
momoese
08-17-2010, 07:15 PM
Bob, someone can correct me if I'm wrong, but maturing & ripening are different. Right now we want our fruit to mature which should take about 3 months or little more. Then it will take more time to ripen & they can do that after we cut the bunch down. They can ripen in the house.
My fruits seem to get way more plump in the weeks before ripening.
Gabe15
08-17-2010, 08:23 PM
Yes, it's true a lot of size is put on near the end of the growth cycle for the fruit. Commercial bananas are picked early so the skin remains thick, but if you see Cavendish which are allowed to mature fully, they really look giant, and are much more rounded. Fortunately, bananas do not need to be fully mature in order ripen. There is a maturity point at which ripening will be best though, but this changes by variety. Ideally bananas should be harvested when the fruit has little or no growing left to do, which can be determined in a few different ways for different varieties, but generally when a few of the fruits start to ripen is a good time to harvest the whole bunch.
In a case where the fruit may not have enough time to reach fully maturity in a cold climate, they should be harvested as late as possible before a frost or near freezing temperatures. If it starts getting into the 40's, it's probably best to harvest them. Whatever size they are, they usually ripen, though the quality can vary greatly depending on how mature they were, but it's better than nothing or leaving them on too long and having them be cold damaged (in which case they would not be able to ripen at all).
ShearMe
08-17-2010, 08:32 PM
^^^^^^^^^^
That's what I meant to say. :ha:
:bananas_b
LilRaverBoi
08-18-2010, 01:20 PM
Thanks for the update, Bob! Things look like they are going quite well for ya! Congrats again!
Patty in Wisc
08-18-2010, 02:12 PM
'That's what I meant to say.'
Me too :) LOL
HBL, I remember someone telling me to pick my maters before frost & put them in a brown paper bag in tyhe basement & they will ripen slowly. I did this one year & it's true! I had home grown ripe tomatoes at Christmas time!
Thanks all and a special thanks to Gabe since I and a lot of others who garden in the north have no clue nor the luxury of just waiting for things to happen completely naturally. I still plan on tenting the entire plant once the weather starts to cool but I'm so much more optomistic not as well as not going to be tempted to let them go on the plant to the point of being cold damaged...
Great info and I'll definitly keep posting with photos as the season progresses.
enigma99a
08-18-2010, 05:34 PM
Bob so you ate the flower? how good was it?
It was very good and I'd eat it again and know better next time just how I'd like it. The part closest to the "tip" was tender and great raw in an Asian style salad.... say mid way down the bud to the end cut in rings. I'd eat it again that way anytime. Since I only had the one flower though I tried to get as much as possible out of it and added more than I should have closer to the fatter part of the flower and that was tough though not at all inedible. My advice is to just consume the choicest bit of the flower and be content with that.
There's other recipes online that when slow cooked the tougher upper portion would be fine since it would soften up a bit. Definitely worth eating though.
Dalmatiansoap
08-18-2010, 06:55 PM
I still plan on tenting the entire plant once the weather starts to cool but I'm so much more optomistic not as well as not going to be tempted to let them go on the plant to the point of being cold damaged...
How long do U have till than?
Every fall season is different but, now I'm hoping to keep them on the plant till at least Hallloween ( Oct 31st) I was initially going to try for American Thanksgiving (November 25th) but I have at least two good months.
Hoping for a warm fall!
The Hollyberry Lady
08-19-2010, 05:27 PM
We sure wish you the best weather Bob, so you'll have every chance for success!
: )
ron_mcb
08-19-2010, 10:49 PM
They will need air despite the temp Bob. I thought that real bunch bags are completely open on the bottom. Ron?
the bags are more like a sleaves than actual bags..the "bags" are made out of a breathable material. the "tops" are tied to the bract so its closed on that end and the bottom is tied too.. but not in a way that would seal it off and keep you from checking on the bunch.. i never got a chance to use them.
i dont really need them here in Georgia. i found out there are no banana burrowing insects so far. no problems with the wasps/fles like in Florida/california that lay eggs inside of fruits.
Patty in Wisc
08-20-2010, 11:34 AM
I get my first frost sometime in Oct. but only for a couple days, so I'll just cover the plant w/ an old blanket then. I think we are OK w/ getting our fruit to mature outside & ripen inside! WOOHOO
Mine still aren't growing much - even though we've had temps in 80's & very high humidity w/dewpoints around 70.
Jack Daw
08-20-2010, 12:17 PM
I get my first frost sometime in Oct. but only for a couple days, so I'll just cover the plant w/ an old blanket then. I think we are OK w/ getting our fruit to mature outside & ripen inside! WOOHOO
Mine still aren't growing much - even though we've had temps in 80's & very high humidity w/dewpoints around 70.
Patty, be careful though. I've read somewhere that banana fruit grows and ripens only in temps above 20°C (75°F). Damage might occur in temperatures below that line for extended period of time.
The Hollyberry Lady
08-22-2010, 03:49 PM
Um...
It's Sunday! :ha:
So how are the bananas doing?
: )
Not much progress to show... I wish there was. I think they're getting a little fatter but thats about it. Raining here .... finally, but I promise some shots when the weather clears.
The Hollyberry Lady
08-22-2010, 04:20 PM
Another one of the old "not much progress here" brush offs, instead of just posting the damn shot, eh?! :ha:
A bit fatter?
Likely they're huge now...but we won't know until the..."weather clears". Lord knows when that could be. http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo1.gif
More harassment? Just post a shot already...
: )
Fine... if it will..... settle your nerves. ( this was the polite way of putting it:ha:) Let me go run out in the pouring rain:mad:
The Hollyberry Lady
08-22-2010, 04:34 PM
No one said it had to be this minute! You don't want to get the camera wet.
You did promise Sunday though...and you wouldn't want to go back on a promise, now would
you? :eek:
Especially when your shrub isn't in the mail yet! :ha:
If it rains all evening & night like it did here yesterday, just snap a shot tomorrow. Aren't you glad you have me as your friend, to figure these things out for you?
: )
yeah , yeah , yeah..... if you hadn't posted all those shots of the Princess in the other thread I wouldn't have went out in this:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0542.jpg
to take these:ha:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0545.jpg
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0544.jpg
the close up is because I was under an umbrella! Sorry it's a bit blurry but so was my vision out in the elements!
The Hollyberry Lady
08-22-2010, 05:14 PM
Wow, I can't believe how big they're getting! :goteam:
Those are way too cool! Thank you so much for showing us.
Gosh Bob...your plants and yard sure are nice. http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/flowerpink.gif
That's right though, you should always kiss the a** of someone who's about to send you this "Blue Princess" Hollyberry shrub...
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/DSCI3366.jpg
After all, it's not in the mail until next Sunday, so I guess you'll have to show yet another shot before I box it up for ya. :ha:
: )
saltydad
08-23-2010, 03:33 PM
What a shot, Bob. I still can't believe you're in Jersey! I forget, did you winter in a pot or bare root? I'll have to do the same with my IC.
Thanks for the compliment HBL! A lot of people have been in the yard this week and been a bit stunned. Everyone says how tropical it looks.
Howard, I always overwintered it in a large pot cutting it down just enough to fit in the front porch ( about 7').
Dalmatiansoap
08-23-2010, 05:44 PM
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0542.jpg
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0545.jpg
I dont know why but this gets to my mind same minute I saw this pix
YouTube - Geri Halliwell - It´s raining man (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dr9X-GKtbJI)
any ideas???
:woohoonaner:
CoryS
08-24-2010, 10:55 PM
Cool Bob! :D Those last shots prove you're at least as crazy as me! :ha:
Cool Bob! :D Those last shots prove you're at least as crazy as me! :ha:
Cory, to grow bananas around here .....being a little nuts is a requirement!
harveyc
08-25-2010, 09:02 AM
Patty, be careful though. I've read somewhere that banana fruit grows and ripens only in temps above 20°C (75°F). Damage might occur in temperatures below that line for extended period of time.
I don't believe damage occurs when temps are below 75F, the bananas just require warm weather to develop further. I've had several bunches of bananas left on the plants into the fall and they continued to develop but slowed down each time the temperatures dipped. I've left them on through mild frosts. Last year we had a freeze down to 25F and I cut my bunch at midnight to avoid damage before it got that cold.
Patty in Wisc
08-26-2010, 02:55 PM
Taken yesterday...more boring than watching grass grow LOL
http://www.bananas.org/gallery/watermark.php?file=36093&size=1 (http://www.bananas.org/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=36093&ppuser=432)
They're looking great Patty, I don't think mine are that fat yet but I'm a few weeks behind.... yeah I stare at them everyday and.......nothing:ha:
Harvey... aside from the fruits...which I have no clue, I think many varieies are a lot hardier than people give credit for, especially those in warmer areas.
Patty in Wisc
08-26-2010, 03:53 PM
another taken yesterday-- still 3 1/2 inches long. You think they are plumping up? Thanks!
http://www.bananas.org/gallery/watermark.php?file=36091&size=1 (http://www.bananas.org/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=36091)
On the right is a nana with bruises. Over a week ago, it looked like some kind of hard eggs on it so I knocked them off. Don't know what that was.
Yeah mine are only slightly longer but don't look as fat though maybe in the pics they look bigger. I can totally relate to the feeling of like watching grass grow but have to assume those that have had them are right when they say that they develop more size towards the end of the maturation process.
momoese
08-26-2010, 04:05 PM
Yeah it's a slow process, they grow out so fast but they don't plump over night.
Patty, those are coming along nicely! As they mature the sharp angles become less sharp and towards the end the flat space in between becomes slightly rounded.
CoryS
08-26-2010, 06:40 PM
That's incredible, Bob and Patty! :D If you can do that in zones 5 and 6a, I'm feeling totally encouraged! Keep up the great work guyz!
ShearMe
09-01-2010, 11:58 PM
Those look freakign delicious!
The Hollyberry Lady
09-03-2010, 12:14 AM
Do I actually have to remind you to post another shot?! :eek:
Good Lord what's it been now...3 weeks?! http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo2.gif
: o
Let me guess...
No changes whatsoever, or you would have shown us by now? :ha: I know the drill, Bob.
Just show us a shot, will ya already? I'm dying to see how they look now. A picture says a thousand words. I've never known anyone so stingy with the peeks. http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo1.gif Do we have to pay to see them now, or what? :bunchonanas:
I bet they're huge...
: )
Cory , you definitley can do it , just takes some time and extra care in a cold climate.
HBL, I'll post some later today but it's likePatty said ... waching grass grow.... but feel free to send a check!:ha:
The Hollyberry Lady
09-04-2010, 09:21 AM
I see you have not been using the "Hooked on Phonics" tape I so kindly sent you last year...
Although there are are definite improvements, you still need some work. After all Bob, that would be "cheque", not "check"!!! :ha:
Better go have another listen to your "HoP" tape!!! http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo1.gif
I knew there would be some excuse as to why you weren't giving us another peek after all these weeks. Why you! http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo2.gif
Don't make me have to release a certain shot someone sent me last year...of a certain someone in a chicken wing eating contest with hot sauce running down their face and chin! :eek:
Oh yes I would! http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo13.gif
Guess you better get busy working on posting that pic, eh? ;)
Looking forward to seeing...
: )
It's "check" and I see you haven't used that English as a second language tape I sent you last year!!! Plpplplth!:ha: ..... eh? ..... Hoser!:ha:
Fine .... I'll go get the camera ...... Please refer in English in future posts..:ha:
The Hollyberry Lady
09-04-2010, 05:47 PM
Oh yeah, I forgot you Americans from New Jersey don't know how to spell! :ha: Who ever heard of spelling it "check"?!!!
: o
If a Canadian spelled it that way, they'd be called illiterate!!!
It's ok Bob, I respect your motto...
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/134607.jpg
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/emo1.gif
Hoser?! :eek:
Are you saying I'm unintelligent and uncouth...or a promiscuous young lady? This is what "Hoser" means in Canada! :ha:
I sure hope for your sake, you show that shot soon. You don't want everyone to see you with hot sauce running down your face, now do you?...
: )
Forget it.... an IOU will be fine...
I take back the hoser comment and apologize since I didn't mean to be all that insulting but..... dont get used to any takebacks....
Yeah ignorance truly is bliss and I am happy so.... Plplplplpth!
harveyc
09-04-2010, 10:11 PM
Bob, what are your temperature ranges running these days? My forecast for tonight is the upper 50s but I don't think we'll get quite that low but it sure would be helpful for our fruit growth if the nights were warmer.
Harvey it's almost 6 am as I'm writing and it's down to 51*F. Up until recently this week it was much warmer overnight but the hurricane passing the coast brought cooler temperatures...? Temps have been all over the place from low 90's this week with lows in the high 60's to yesterday where it only got maybe to the low 70's. The bunch is still bagged and I hope that adds a couple of degrees but it may have to build a plastic tent over the whole thing that I'd be able to vent during the warm days.... what do you think?
The Hollyberry Lady
09-05-2010, 11:08 AM
Are we ever gonna see them, already?!
Looking through my pic archives now, for that hot sauce mug shot...
: )
ShearMe
09-05-2010, 11:25 AM
fur reelz bro!
Do me a favor and loose the shot of hot sauce all over my burning face!!!!:ha:
Here's some from just a minute ago... I took the bag off just for the pics:
First the whole plant:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0581.jpg
and a couple of the bunch.....maybe they are just a little bigger...?:ha:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0579-1.jpg
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0578.jpg
The Hollyberry Lady
09-05-2010, 12:30 PM
Imagine waiting this long to show shots of those!!!
: o
They look incredible, Bob! I just can't believe you have that in your back yard!
Thank you for finally showing us. How totally cool. http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/BigThumbs.gif
: )
ShearMe
09-05-2010, 12:37 PM
How many are there on the bunch? You better start thinking of some deserts that use bananas...
Thanks all, my first count was 41 but two of those had male flowers and wont develop so I'm down to 39.... still just getting it to flower was my first goal. If I can get them to ripen there's goal#2 accomplished.:woohoonaner:
The Hollyberry Lady
09-05-2010, 12:53 PM
Oh he's thinking of desserts alright, Zac....
a fresh homemade banana loaf for The Hollyberry Lady!!! :ha:
I'll be expecting it shortly, Bob...
: )
Let's get them to maturity before I start promising a loaf!.... Then we'll talk about a trade:ha:
The Hollyberry Lady
09-05-2010, 01:10 PM
Sure thing Bob...
your Hollyberries might take awhile to ripen too, before I can mail the shrub, and then we can talk about a trade. For once, I couldn't agree with you more! :ha:
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/DSCI3404.jpg
Plplplplplth!
: )
You win... as usual... send the recipe!:ha:
The Hollyberry Lady
09-05-2010, 01:16 PM
It's on it's way Bob...
I knew you would see the light!
http://i375.photobucket.com/albums/oo193/hollyberrylady08/2nd%20album/aa47.jpg
: )
Dalmatiansoap
09-05-2010, 05:19 PM
During this Bobs photo strike, here is another Ice cream with simillar gen constitution:
http://www.bananas.org/gallery/watermark.php?file=36339&size=1 (http://www.bananas.org/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=36339&ppuser=4565)
:woohoonaner:
Jack Daw
09-05-2010, 06:45 PM
During this Bobs photo strike, here is another Ice cream with simillar gen constitution:
http://www.bananas.org/gallery/watermark.php?file=36339&size=1 (http://www.bananas.org/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=36339&ppuser=4565)
:woohoonaner:
Wow, Ante, you're so small. :ha:
CoryS
09-05-2010, 08:08 PM
Bob, def props and thanks for the new photos! :D They look like they could ripen soon but I'd def like to see the buffalo wings shot! That had to be one incredible contest! :ha:
ShearMe
09-05-2010, 08:22 PM
Hey Jack, that Palm is looking a bit pale...
The Hollyberry Lady
09-05-2010, 10:38 PM
Bob would kill me Cory, if I actually showed it...but it's a real good one! Very becoming! :ha:
Nice photo, Ante!
: )
Looking good Ante!:woohoonaner: I bet you'lll be posting your flowering process next year! One thing I noticed about Ice Cream bananas is that they put out more pups than most of the other varieties I have so last year I started removing most of them when they were very small to keep more energy in the mother corm. I kept one pup on mine so when I chop the one with the bananas down later this year it will have the full mature corm supplying it. You can see it's almost as tall as the parent plant now but, that one had about 7 feet cut off of it in the previous 2 winters to bring indoors.
The Hollyberry Lady
09-06-2010, 11:56 AM
I am wondering, and others that have never grown bananas may be wondering as well...
What happens to a banana plant after it produces fruits? Is it capable of flowering again, or does the plant die?
: )
Jack Daw
09-06-2010, 12:03 PM
Bob, I just counted those fingers. One for each regularly posting member, right? :ha:
Keep taking those pics. Love 'em! :02:
harveyc
09-06-2010, 12:05 PM
HBL, it eventually dies as it never sends out another leaf, but it can be sustained for a long time if other plants in the mat exist to help feed it.
Dalmatiansoap
09-06-2010, 05:10 PM
Looking good Ante!:woohoonaner: I bet you'lll be posting your flowering process next year!
Next year???
Come on Bob, be serious for a moment please! Banana harvest is coming to end any day now!:ha:
http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww305/dalmatiansoap/Fotografija147.jpg
hey!
:woohoonaner:
The Hollyberry Lady
09-07-2010, 12:01 AM
LoL, Ante. You show more shots than Bob!!! :ha:
Your stuff sure looks fantastic.
: )
Patty in Wisc
09-08-2010, 09:22 PM
Very nice 'jungle' there Ante!!:):)
I'm glad you have your avatar back ---- I love it!
Yesterday was the day! I cut the 3 month old bunch off the plant:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0717.jpg
and now it's hanging on my front porch , I'm just hoping they'll ripen having only matured about half way as opposed to if they were in a warmer zone.
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0719.jpg
Sure it's a stunted and not overly productive bunch but .. for New Jersey ....one of the first plants I got when joining the org and my first bunch of bananas I'll take it.:woohoonaner:
I cut the mother plant down keeping the whole corm to supply nutrients to the pup that I'll dig up this week. I really believe that will help it produce even faster the next time but more on that in another thread yet to come.
Dalmatiansoap
10-31-2010, 03:32 PM
They have some nice pulp now. To bad U had to cut them so early :(
:nanadrink:
ShearMe
10-31-2010, 03:35 PM
Shwoop-de-woop, that's an awesome possum you got there. ;)
:0519:
momoese
10-31-2010, 04:12 PM
I was thinking you were going to protect them for a bit in a little greenhouse but they should still ripen just fine for you. :)
harveyc
10-31-2010, 06:41 PM
I've cut much smaller bananas than that and had them ripen up great. Congrats again, Bob! I bet you're the talk of the town. lol
Kostas
10-31-2010, 07:16 PM
Congratulations for your first bunch Bob!!!:woohoonaner::goteam::birthdaynana:
They appear plump enough to make nice bananas when they ripen!:woohoonaner:
My IC is just a few leaves behind Ante's so i also hope for next year maybe,if it survives the winter!
:woohoonaner::woohoonaner::woohoonaner::woohoonaner:
It worked!!!!
The first one's started changing color yesterday but I wasn't quite sure if they were really ripening. Today I'm sure I'll be eating my first homegrown Ice Cream banana tomorrow!:woohoonaner:
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0762.jpg
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0761.jpg
:woohoonaner:
It took me a while to post this since I have been doing the banana happy dance all afternoon!
:woohoonaner:
Dalmatiansoap
11-19-2010, 05:30 PM
Its a Bullseye Bob!
:woohoonaner:
The Hollyberry Lady
11-19-2010, 05:30 PM
So awesome, Bob! :goteam:
You lucky bugger! :ha:
Congrats! Way cool!
: )
Kostas
11-19-2010, 06:00 PM
Thats awesome Bob,i am very happy for you!!!:woohoonaner::goteam:
Looking forward to your comments on its taste!!!
momoese
11-19-2010, 06:34 PM
Sweet!!
I look forward to hearing what you think about the flavor and texture.
Patty in Wisc
11-20-2010, 01:04 AM
Funny, just yesterday we pm'd saying some look like they're getting lighter and now I have one that's almost all yellow. I'm tasting in 2-3 days!! (also doing happy dance LOL) Your bunch looks better than mine... I have some brown spots - like a bird pecked on some while outside yet.
tbaleno
11-20-2010, 01:16 AM
Is that plant indoors or outdoors? How tall is the ceiling if it is indoors?
Patty in Wisc
11-20-2010, 01:39 AM
tbaleno, ours were both outside --his inground & mine in pot. We cut the bunch off plant cuz of frost coming, so they can ripen inside.
Bananaman88
11-20-2010, 09:09 AM
Congrats, Bob! My IC's are still on the plant but may not be for much longer. They are still quite small.
Thanks Brent, mine are about half the optimal size but I'm still pretty happy with them . You should be too!:ha: I'll be tasting the first one tonight.
john_ny
11-20-2010, 09:37 AM
Congrats! Wow, I'm really impressed.
enigma99a
11-20-2010, 08:31 PM
Congrats Bob! Hope it tastes good!
momoese
11-21-2010, 12:21 AM
and?
Not bad at all but not quite ripe enough yet and was slightly astringent so I'll wait a couple of days before trying the next one.
bluegreeneree
11-21-2010, 01:10 AM
Wow, Bob, I just went through this whole thread and it was amazing! What an incredible process! Thanks for sharing it with us! Enjoy your well-earned bananas!
Today they've all turned yellow!
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/bob_075/DSCN0770.jpg
I'm going to wait a few days and then give the final taste report.
The Hollyberry Lady
11-21-2010, 05:19 PM
OMG!!! :eek:
WoW Bob!!! :goteam:
: )
ShearMe
11-22-2010, 12:47 AM
waiting a few days? i'd taste one right away!
The Hollyberry Lady
11-22-2010, 01:10 AM
Zac, he told me he did try one but that it wasn't quite ripe tasting yet so he's waiting a bit longer. ;)
: )
Yeah it was just slightly acidic so I think they have to ripen more and maybe develop more spots on the fruit . I'll give the final taste report tomorrow for sure.
Patty in Wisc
11-22-2010, 11:08 PM
Hey - banana buddies,Bob & Anne, we tasted ours today & although it was yellow, I knew it was too firm to be fully ripened, but curiosity got the best of this cat LOL. I must say it tasted VERY good! Today, there are several more tyhat are yellow so I'll wait a few more days to ripen before we eat them.
I heard that if you separate some from a hand -individually, they ripen faster than the ones on the bunch...that way they won't all get ripe at same time.
WOOHOO isn't this fun!!!? Fresh Wisconsin/New Jersey home grown bananas!!!
:woohoonaner: Today some of them started turning from all yellow to a blackis on the peel and they turned out to be delicious too!!! Just have to figure when they're the optimum ripeness I guess! No doubt they'll be gone withing the week!:ha:
Patty in Wisc
11-23-2010, 11:20 AM
4 years to grow...1 week to eat :)
ShearMe
11-29-2010, 01:38 AM
Awesome!
They're the sweetest when black, though sometimes the texture ain't so nice. My mom uses bananas that are black and mushy as butter for her banana bread... always turns out spectacular. For eating raw, I prefer them right when black/brown splotches turn up on the sides.
Enjoy those yellow goodies, lucky man!
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