Planting Palm Trees is similar, in most ways,
to planting other kinds of trees. Nursery-grown Palms are generally sold
either potted or balled and burlapped. Try to plant your tree shortly after
purchase. If there is going to be any time lag between purchase and
planting, make sure that the tree's root ball is kept moist but not soaking.
When transporting and handling Palm Trees, use care. The bark is easily
damaged and damaged areas leave the tree vulnerable to insects and fungus.
The best time of year to plant is during the warmer months when the soil
temperature is at least 65 degrees F.
Dig a hole wide enough to fit the root ball with plenty of room to
spare. Twice as wide might be a good rule of thumb in many cases. The hole
should be just deep enough so that the tree is planted at the depth at which
it was grown. Do not plant the tree any deeper as this may deprive the roots
of nutrients and water. When the tree has been situated in the hole,
backfill with the freshly dug soil.
When the Palm Tree has been planted, build a
soil barrier around the circumference of the hole to form a dam that
will hold water. Then lay down a layer of organic mulch around the tree.
About three inches deep should do.
Frequent watering is crucial for newly-planted Palm Trees. Daily for about
the first two weeks and then tapering off over several months as the tree
establishes itself. Use a bubbler or arrange a hose to slow soak the area
around the tree. It is important not to allow the soil to dry out as this
will severely weaken your new Palm.
Palm Trees also require periodic fertilizer applications. There are
commercial mixes available especially for Palms.