Bananas.org - Winter???

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How do I get my banana trees ready for winter?

I have several potted banana trees in my backyard. I want to know if anyone can tell me how to prepare them for winter. I live in Oklahoma City. We had temperatures that reached freezing last night and my poor banana trees look awful. Is it to late to save them. I have read that I need to cut back the leaves and remove the soil from the roots. I just don't know what to do next. I have a garage or an attic that I can place them in. I just want to know if I need to put them in a container or wrap them in plastic. Also, do they need sunlight or water while they are dormant?

Thank You!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Janyse (Post 110408)

You coming from Oklahoma City... Cool. You'll have a personal meeting with a member from here before you blink your eyes. Good luck and may the force be with you.
The floor is yours Eric! :ha:

Welcome aboard, Janyse :) ! Oh, an Thanx Jack Skywalker :ha: !
I've been over-wintering Blue Java bananas for 3 years now. The main (1st) thing is Not to give them any water. Make sure the soil is dry. Wet + cold = corm rot. That's detected by soft spots on the stem.
If you've left yours outside this late, they will look awfull. Best to bring them in Before it drops into the 40's (F). Get them inside & get them to a place above 50F. I keep mine in pots for the winter but
If kept around 50-65 degrees F
I never give them water till spring.
If kept above 65 degrees F
I give them very little water.
Most bananas grow Very slow during the winter & only make 1-2 new leaves. Adding fertilizer during winter can burn them so I dont use fertilizer during the winter.
If all the leaves are dead, probably best to keep them dormant (below 65 degrees F). But either way you do it, Do put them near a sunny window or under plant lights. They will still need sunlight.
Hope this helps :) ! If ya have any more questions just ask.
It's a very friendly & info-packed forum. If ya have any questions about using the forum, just ask!
Btw, once they're safe, we can also help identify them & get you better care instructions. Each banana plant is different But the instructions I've given here should work fine for now.

And I was hoping you would ask her out, Eric. :D

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jack Daw (Post 110475)

And I was hoping you would ask her out, Eric. :D

:o My video-games might get jealous.