Matcha Green Energy Smoothie

Banana

• Banana plants thrive in warm, humid, frost-free environments with full sun (at least 6-8 hours daily).
• Plant in rich, well-draining soil and provide abundant water, especially during hot, dry periods.
• For global regions with cooler climates, grow dwarf varieties in large containers that can be moved indoors for winter.

Spinach

• Sow spinach seeds directly into cool soil in early spring or late summer, as it prefers cooler temperatures.
• Plant in partial sun to full sun (in cooler climates) and well-draining, fertile soil.
• Keep the soil consistently moist to prevent bolting, especially during warmer spells.

• Check banana leaves regularly for aphids and spider mites; spray with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.

• Use floating row covers over spinach to protect from leaf miners and flea beetles, especially in spring.

• Hand-pick slugs and snails from spinach plants, or use barriers like copper tape or crushed eggshells.

Banana

• Harvest bananas when they are full-sized, plump, and the skin begins to lighten from dark green, but before they turn fully yellow on the plant.
• Cut the entire stalk or 'hand' of bananas from the plant; they will continue to ripen after picking.
• If left on the plant too long, bananas can split or become overripe and mushy.

Spinach

• Harvest spinach leaves when they are young and tender by picking the outer leaves first (cut-and-come-again method).
• Alternatively, cut the entire plant at the base when it reaches desired size, allowing for a second flush of growth.
• Harvest regularly to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from bolting in warmer weather, which makes leaves bitter.