Although there are some palm species that are particularly suitable for the terrace or balcony, almost all palm plants are grateful for summer quarters outdoors. It is only important that their special needs for light, water and nutrients are taken into account and fulfilled.

Palm trees on the balcony create a Mediterranean atmosphere

Very suitable species

  • Phoenix palm (Phoenix canariensis)

This attractive palm tree feels most at home on a south-facing terrace or balcony. But it even tolerates light penumbra.

  • Hemp palm (Trachycarpus fortunei)

This very frost-hardy palm tree can not only be planted directly in the garden, it also does extremely well in a bucket. Relatively thirsty and at the same time very robust, it is an ideal "beginner's palm".

  • Washingtonie (Washingtonia filifera)

This palm is also a sun worshiper that feels most comfortable in southern locations. However, it is even more sensitive to waterlogging than other palm plants and requires a little finesse when caring for it.

The acclimatization

Never place the palm directly from a sheltered indoor area to a hot, full sun outdoor location. The strong UV radiation could damage the plant without an appropriate acclimatization phase.

You should also carefully get the tropical plant used to the conditions in the winter quarters in autumn. Therefore, lower the temperature slowly or first place the palm tree in the cool stairwell and only then in the frost-free basement.

Don't move the palm too often

Palm trees generally do not like it very much when they are moved frequently and brought to a different location again and again. Therefore, choose the place on the balcony or terrace with care and then leave the plant there.

water and fertilizer requirements

The growth phase of palm trees is in summer, during this time the plants must be regularly supplied with a fertilizer tailored to their needs. Slow-growing species get half the dosage indicated on the packaging, fast-growing species.

Even palm trees that thrive in desert regions need sufficient watering, varieties that grow in jungle areas are even relatively thirsty. Watering is always done when the thumb test shows that the top centimeters of the substrate feel dry.

  • Water thoroughly until liquid emerges from the water outlet.
  • Throw away excess water after a few minutes.
  • Check in the morning and evening on hot days and water a second time if necessary.

Preparation for the winter

In contrast to palm trees that are planted out, potted plants do not tolerate frost and must always be brought indoors in winter. It overwinters in a frost-free place that is as bright as possible. The rule of thumb here is: the darker the room in which the plant stands in the cold season, the cooler it can be.

tips

Over the years, palm trees can get quite large and then take up a lot of space in the open air but also in the winter quarters. Consider this before purchasing multiple potted palms.

Category:

Trees