Banana plants have grown in popularity with gardners in the last decade. With their sturdy stalks and broad, lush leaves, they make an impressive addition to any landscape by adding tropical flair, color, and a stately backdrop for other plants. But not many gardeners know how many varieties of bananas exist, or that even home gardeners outside of tropical climates can get fruiting varieties to bear stalks of delicous, edible fruit that's more delicious than anything you'll find on store shelves. This book will give you all the information you need to know to become an expert grower, whether you want an ornamental variety to accent your other plantings or a fruiting variety that will reward you with a harvest of fresh bananas. Bananas are different than other plants and maximizing their potential as ornamentals or fruit-bearers comes down to the gardener's techniques.In this book you will learn: The history of banana plants and why only one variety is predominantly available in stores Which banana plant will do best in your growing zone The wide variety of both ornamental and fruiting varieties The structure of a banana plant How to select, plant, and feed your banana for maximum color, size, and yield How to produce and harvest fruit Propogation techniques Tips for greenhouse growers ...and more