hi there i just orderd my dwarf cavendish tree and i was wondering is it ok to use a planting mix type soil or do i need something else? i was told to not fertilize when i first transplant to the new pot wait a year? is that true i orderd from wayside gardens.i am trying to grow in a pot i am in zone 7 in tn and wondering if i'll have trouble with this type of plant?

Here is my favorite mix for potted bananas:

1/3 good potting soil such as Miracle Grow
1/3 compost
1/3 either, shredded or small chipped bark, pea gravel, or perlite

You can begin fertilizing after your banana plant has two leaves. Unless you are privy to compost tea, then I suggest Peters 20-20-20 diluted half strenth till your plant has four to six leaves. then you can fertilize with this same formula once every seven to ten days.

Do not over-water your new banana until it has plenty of leaves (at least 4) or you will rot the corm.

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