Snow and ground frost? That doesn't exist at the equator. In the home of the palm trees, there are mild temperatures all year round. Therefore, the exotic plants are particularly sensitive to frost. With species-appropriate winter protection, you can still bring your palm tree safely through the cold season. In this article you will find all important information.
Some palms also tolerate sub-zero temperatures
Are palm trees hardy?
Although palm trees are not resistant to frost or cold, they can tolerate temperatures just below freezing for a short time. The following factors decide whether a little frost will not damage your palm tree:
- age
- the kind
- the size
- the way of cultivation
A palm tree planted out is significantly more frost-resistant than plants that you keep in a bucket. While the leaves are usually not damaged by icy temperatures and the trunk is also quite robust, the roots are very sensitive. In the bucket there is a greater risk that the substrate will freeze. Sometimes it happens that some leaves of the palm tree turn yellow in winter and fall off a short time later. Don't worry, they grow back throughout the year.
When and how long is winter protection required?
You don't have to hide your palm tree under a dense foil all winter. In the worst case, this could even lead to mold growth. Each variety has its own frost limit. In most cases, the nursery or the label will provide information about the limit value. If temperatures fall up to 5°C above this limit, you should apply winter protection.
measures
Light winter protection
- Tie leaves together loosely, ensure adequate air circulation, do not use wire
Medium winter protection
- Tie leaves together, put a straw or jute sack over the palm tree, pack up the entire trunk
Strong winter protection
- Ram the stick into the ground next to the palm tree (this should be slightly higher than the plant), put bubble wrap over the stick and palm tree
- Build a makeshift greenhouse out of wood and glass
- Place an oil lamp or heater near the palm tree as a heat source
No matter how much winter protection your area needs, it's always a good idea to cover the roots with a layer of foliage, straw, or bark mulch.