Hello folks,

Recently I went to the local nursey (Home Depot) and discovered that Musa Basjoo small banana plants. I searched for some information through the Internet and was able find some information. I was impressed to notice that Musa Basjoo is enough strong to overwinter in the Washington DC metro area where I live in (Gaithersburg, MD).

Does anyone know which banana varieties are enough hardy to overwinter here? I know that Basjoo is hardy to here for overwintering. Also, I learned that other few ones are hardy too. Which varities? Ice Cream? Sikkimensis? etc...

Thanks!
Tim

Hello folks,

I tried post previous message but it did not work because something erased my message during my posting process. Here is my second attempt.

I am surprised to notice that no one answered my questions about hardiest banana that can be grown in the northern area. Yes, there are a few species like Basjoo and Skkimensis, etc.

For example about hardiest banana lists,

Basjoo - hardiness zone 5
Sikkimensis - hardiness zone 5? Perhaps 7?
Pink Velvet - hardiness zone 7.
etc...

Which species that can grow in Maryland (Washington DC metro area) weather?

Thanks!
Tim

I grow Musa Basjoo here in Prospect park , PA. Just south of Philadelphia , PA. ZONE 7b. They will do great here with a little care. Winterize them by cutting the stalk to 2-4 feet and build a cage around them to fill with hay and mulch. Wrap some burlap around the stump first. Then cover it all with a dark colored tarp.
You can also grow Palms too!!

Sabal Minor
Needle palm is great in your zone
and others.

try here:
http://www.coldhardypalms.kansaspalms.com/

Explore the WEB for lots of ideas for your zone, it's just like mine and the tropix are ours for the taking.

Most of all, have fun with it and don't make too much work for yourself.

goodluck!!