I have had banana trees in my yard (in Raleigh NC area...Zone 7b) for close to 6 years. Each year, I wrap them in blankets and bubble wrap, and lots of mulch at their base. My purpose for doing this is reading online about it and feeling I would be starting at a much higher height when the Spring rolls around. However, this year, I have noticed several other people in the area that do not seem to take care of theirs in the winter at all and then they have more of a grove of very tall banana trees, while I only have the quasi-tall one stalk and a few smaller. I am not getting anywhere near the height or quantity of what other people are seeing. In addition, I had two flowers pop out in my largest stalks this year (did not realize I could cut the flower out to stop the death of the stalk). So, I am thinking of a change especially where I should have many more numerous plants and higher height than I have been getting.

What are everyone's thoughts? Am I more likely to get taller and more numerous banana shoots/stalks if I do not cover? If I do not cover like I have before, I read that I should cut at a 45 degree angle 1 foot from the ground after first frost and then mulch a foot around it.

If this works better, it will definitely save me a lot of time and bubble wrap.

Any help is appreciated.

Tom