Coniferfreak, Yes, they have grown that large since they came up in late april and we had a freeze on them and they got bitten by the frost. Everyday I see them getting larger. On the Elephant Ears I do them the same way, but remember last winter I did nothing at all to protect either the bananas or the Elephant ears, and they came back in the spring. On the Elephant Ears be sure they have plenty of water just like the bananas they love water I water everyday, and I use miracle grow on both about every week sometime a little more than once a week. Hope that helps you will love the bananas, I like the E.Ears to but Palms are my favorite. Enjoy :)

I know this post is kind of old, but I was wondering how your garden looks now, before winter kills it. I too live in illinois and my garden did now grow as much as last year.

Your backyard looks like a nice place to hang out. You have a great assortment of plants and your layout seems to flow nicely... I also like looking at other peoples yards. Thanks for sharing.

Is that "Thai Giant" Colocasia? (I have one in a large tub).