Caring for Your Trees
Caring for Your Pygmy Date Palm
The Pygmy date palm (Phoenix roebelenii) is a small-sized palm tree native to Southeast Asia. It’s known for its feather-like fronds and compact size, making it popular for indoor and outdoor landscaping. It typically reaches a height of 6-10 feet. The plant prefers well-draining soil and moderate sunlight. Here are some basic care facts for Pygmy date palms:
1. Light: They thrive in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.
2. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering again.
3. Soil: Well-draining soil is essential. A mix of potting soil and sand works well.
4. Pygmy Date palms can tolerate temps down to around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Colder temps or possible frost/freeze conditions require the palm be properly protected. Burlap material works great.
5. Fertilization: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Fertilize with water soluble 20-20-20 1 time per month.
6. Pruning: Remove dead or damaged fronds regularly to encourage healthy growth. Use gloves as they do have thorns on the leaf stem. Cut dead or dying fronds as close to trunk as possible without scarring.
Remember, individual care might vary based on specific environmental conditions.
Fertilizer:
Peter’s 20-20-20
Super Thrive
12-4-12 Palm Special slow release granular fertilizer
