The first part of the bloom is a really small leaf-like sheath on the blossom stem--then the point of the bloom. If that is not the flag, it is next to the flag.

I don't think I would try to move it--the stronger sun could burn the leaves, wind may break them.

Yes, I am still here--I check the forum pretty much every day or 2.

I agree that the leaves get progressively smaller right before the bloom--I hope you get a big bunch!

That first flag measured 17-18 inches long. 2nd 'flag' is opened to 11" long & 5 inches wide. Now it looks like a sword pup coming out! I do believe I have a flower!!! I have some long 1X1's to help support the weight as the stem is so skinny - from losing so many leaves last summer.
I'm sure I won't get many nanas but 3 is better than none LOL. I'll get some pics this wkend.

Congrats! You have waited long enough!

Here it is. It just separated from flag today.

Looks and sounds great Patty, I have just recently got excited about bananas.

Thanks Hershell, from now on I'll stick w/ smaller nana plants LOL. Laaz was right when he told me 4 years ago, that Ice Cream nana is too big to grow in Wisc., but that made me more determined to grow it LOL.
You hear that Laaz? I said YOU WERE RIGHT!

I am starting with Grand Nain (per Millet) Icecream and X. 7 total to be grown in ground in a greenhouse. I hope Im not biting off more than I can chew.

A sad update: The first hand showed...then a 2nd & 3rd a few days later, and all of the babies fell off. At least I THOUGHT they were baby nanas but they were all male flowers, and it's normal for them to fall off. I got NO NANAS!!
Now, the twin sis of that IC is putting out small leaves - same pattern as before. This one is stronger & thicker Pstem and, it's outside, so maybe I'll get some bananas...??

Bummer on the first one--I hope the next one gives you at least a few good hands!

The twin sis has 18 bananas on. They are not growing much longer but I think they are starting to plump. It's in a pot outside so I can bring it in soon for winter.