I was at HD a few days ago and they had some of the Rojos and I was wondering if they are hard to grow. I already have a small Dwarf Cavendish that is doing well and I would like to have a different one to go with it. Anybody know?
Jesse
Is a Rojo banana tree hard to grow?
Jesse....I don't know anything about the Rojos....but just wanted you to know that I finally have that 'bloodleaf' banana dug and am sending it to you tomorrow!
(I'm SO sorry that it's taken so long!)
Please dmail me your address.
I have a Rojo that I have had for 3 years, and I love it. It started out the smallest most pathetic thing, but it grew to a 5 gallon pot the 1st year, so easy to care for, I dont fertilize or anything. I of course bring it in during winter, and even does good inside, tho minimal growth, and without the redness.
It has just started to really put out small pups this past year. It does get more red with more sun, this year I have it in more shade. I think you would like one alot.
Editted to add, ahem the birds like it too LOL they just have a different way of letting me know.
This message was edited Jun 27, 2006 3:52 PM
Nan,
Thank you so much. I sent you a dmail.
Jesse
Bananas are very easy to grow. Treat the Rojo just like your Dwarf Cavendish. You will likely need to bring the bananas indoors, in the winter, in your zone.
I have one that Michael sent me back in February. It was just this big round thing with roots. I did not really think anything would come from it, but I kept it watered. Then when it got warm enough, I put it outside. It has grown so fast. Here is a photo of it. I'm so excited about all of these banana trees. The first photo was taken on 6-21.
Jesse
Here it is on 6-27. It is growing so fast.
Jesse
Here is another view taken on 6-27. You can see that it now has 3 leaves.
Jesse
Rojo appears to me to be a trade name for a redder Zebrina.
(Rojo is Spanish for red)
I have both and they are quite easy to grow.
Big Big pot, lots of compost and manure.
Water often, Full Sun.
Step back! lol
They are fast fast growers.
Ric
I grow mine in a large tub and move it into an unheated garage for the winter. It gets into the 30's and the plant goes fully dormant until I move it outside in the Spring.
How large of a tub do you mean? You can get a 5 gallon bucket from HD or Walmart. How much bigger will it need to be?
Jesse
A 5 gallon will be a good next step.
You will need a big base at maturity.
They can reach 10' tall.
We have ours in 15 gallon pots.
W/ the wind blowing they have a tendecy to tip over pretty easily.
Ric