Although it doesn't really fit our ideas of a palm tree, Trachycarpus fortunei, also known as Chinese hemp palm, is actually hardy. However, without our support, she cannot endure the freezing cold and permanent wetness. Which measures help depends on whether it is in a bed or in a bucket.

The roots of the Chinese hemp palm should be protected from the cold in winter

Winter protection for planted palm trees

Hopefully when you planted the hemp palm you already remembered that outdoors it is only hardy down to -10 °C. Consequently, it only belongs permanently in the garden bed in mild regions of the country. A soil that tends to waterlogging would have to be loosened up with plenty of coarse sand beforehand.

The best winter protection offers her a place near a south wall, which is also protected from the wind. From the first to the last frost, these winter protection measures are added:

  • distribute a 30 cm thick layer of mulch in the root area
  • made of straw, leaves or fir branches
  • tie all palm fronds loosely upwards with a coconut rope
  • Fill in gaps with dry straw
  • Wrap crown with light plant fleece
  • if it rains continuously, put a foil bag over it
  • Don't close the bottom to let air in
  • Remove the bag again on dry days
  • water a little when there is frost and on mild days

Tub specimens overwinter indoors

Trachycarpus fortunei in a tub is best kept in a winter quarters. This must meet one single condition: freedom from frost! Whether it's light or dark, cold or warm, the palm tree doesn't care. She adapts to all circumstances and is sure to come into spring. However, you must pay attention to these points during care:

  • the warmer it is in the room, the higher the water requirement
  • do not fertilize during dormancy
  • specimens that have wintered in the dark only slowly get used to light in spring

The duration of the hibernation depends on the weather and is usually required from the end of September/mid-October to April. If late frosts threaten, the Chinese hemp palm must remain indoors until mid-May.

Alternatively shelter outside

In mild areas and in mild winters, a hemp palm growing in a pot can also overwinter outside. Its crown also benefits from the protective measures previously listed for the outdoor palm. Proceed as follows with the rest of the palm tree and the bucket:

  • Protect roots in the tub from the first frost
  • wrap the buckets with coconut mats (€21.90) or plant fleece
  • stand on insulating styrofoam
  • Cover the root area of the plant with fir branches
  • A protected winter location on a house wall is ideal

tips

Also in winter, make sure that the soil in the bucket does not dry out completely. However, only water the hemp palm on mild days and with small amounts of water.

Category:

Trees