The yucca palm - despite its trivial name - does not belong to the palm family but to the asparagus family. The very popular and easy-care houseplant is easily recognizable by its thick stem and the clusters of leaves that grow from it, with broad leaves that are up to half a meter long. The plant is often also referred to as palm lily, although strictly speaking it is not a single plant species, but a few closely related species. However, these are very similar both in their appearance and in their requirements.

The yucca palm is very easy to care for

Which location does the palm lily prefer?

Yucca palms need a light location. The plants always align themselves to the sun, which is why specimens that are too dark do not grow upright, but crookedly and also wither. You can also put the plants in the direct sun, but you have to get used to it slowly first - otherwise there will be unsightly burns on the leaves. However, the hot and intense midday sun, especially during the summer months, should be avoided.

In which substrate does the yucca palm feel particularly comfortable?

The yucca palm feels particularly comfortable in a loose, well-drained and, above all, nutrient-rich substrate. You can use uniform soil, but green plant substrate is also suitable. If you prefer to mix it yourself, use normal garden soil with some humus and sand. Almost even more important is good drainage in the form of expanded clay (19.73€) or pottery shards, since the yucca palm does not tolerate waterlogging at all. On the other hand, the plant can also be kept excellently in hydroponics.

What should the ideal planter for a yucca palm be like?

It is best to repot a freshly bought yucca palm right away, because the plant pots sold with them are usually much too small. The plant develops quite strong roots, which is why the pot should be tall rather than wide. However, do not choose a container that is too narrow either, as this can quickly tip over due to the plant's own weight.

Can you also cultivate the yucca palm outside?

During the warm summer months, you can place the potted plant not only in the apartment, but also in a warm and bright spot on the balcony or terrace, but if possible not in the blazing sun. However, since the yucca palm is not hardy, it is better to spend the cold season indoors or in the conservatory. Sometimes, however, hardy yucca species are also available on the market, which can also be planted out in the garden in regions with mild winters.

What should you consider when watering the yucca palm?

Yucca palms tend to be over-watered rather than under-watered. Always keep the substrate slightly moist and do a finger test before each watering: the soil should feel dry to a depth of about two centimeters. Don't water profusely, just a little. Excess irrigation water should be removed from the saucer immediately to avoid waterlogging.

How often and with what should you fertilize the palm lily?

Fertilize the yucca palm with a balanced foliage fertilizer about every two weeks during the growing season between April and October. A liquid fertilizer that is administered together with the irrigation water is best suited. If you often forget to fertilize, you can also use long-term fertilizers.

Can you cut back the palm lily?

Basically, a pruning is not necessary. However, if the yucca palm becomes too big, you can also cut the trunk or trunks. As a rule, the plant will sprout again from it. However, do not forget to seal the cuts with a sealant - this way bacteria and other pathogens cannot invade there.

When should you repot the yucca palm?

The plant should always be repotted when the roots threaten to grow out of the plant pot. Spring is the best time to do this.

Which diseases and pests are particularly common on the yucca palm?

Most diseases occur in the yucca during the winter months, when the plant is weakened by overwintering that is too warm and dark. The problems are usually due to too little light and/or too much water. Pests, on the other hand, often appear in spring or early summer, such as spider mites or mealy bugs.

Can you multiply the palm lily yourself?

Many yucca palms, especially if they are older, usually form so-called children at the base of the trunk. These are offshoots that can only be carefully removed from the mother plant and then planted separately.

What is the best way to overwinter the yucca palm?

The yucca palms sold as houseplants are not frost hardy, but they do best overwinter in a bright and cool place at around 10 °C. Of course, you can also leave the plants in the warm living room, but you should then ensure that there is sufficient light.

tips

There is disagreement as to whether the yucca palm is poisonous or not. In the specialist literature it is described as basically harmless, but veterinarians report from time to time signs of poisoning in some pets. These appear to occur primarily in rodents such as rabbits, guinea pigs, etc. The plant contains saponins that may cause the symptoms of poisoning. So if you have pets, it is better to play it safe and cultivate the yucca palm out of reach of the animals or not at all.

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Trees