Trachycarpus fortunei is robust, hardy and even hardy. This means that the Chinese hemp palm is not only suitable for the bucket, but also for the garden bed. But it rarely gets by without winter protection. First and foremost, the location is crucial!

The Trachycarpus fortunei tolerates temperatures down to -10°C

outdoor challenges

Trachycarpus fortunei is hardy down to -10 °C. This makes it clear that not every region of our country can offer it a place that is conducive to survival. In addition, this palm species is sensitive to moisture. Extreme cold and wet days are the two challenges that have to be mastered if the hemp palm is to be permanently in the garden.

Create a good starting position

Initial considerations for overwintering this palm should be made before planting. Only if you live in a mild region should you dare planting the hemp palm.

An ideal location is the best winter protection measure. It should be sheltered from the wind, with a favorable microclimate, such as that found near a south-facing wall. A permeable soil, which if necessary has been optimized with larger amounts of coarse sand, helps against moisture. A drainage layer up to 15 cm high is also essential.

Take further protective measures

From late autumn, Trachycarpus fortunei needs additional winter protection, especially when frost is approaching or countless rainy days follow one another.

  • Cover the root area with a 30 cm thick layer of mulch
  • ideal material for this are straw, leaves and fir branches
  • Bend palm fronds upwards
  • Tie loosely with coconut twine
  • Fill gaps in the crown with dry straw
  • then wrap the crown with breathable fleece
  • put a large foil bag over it if it rains for a long time
  • For better ventilation, do not close the bottom of the bag
  • Remove the bag promptly after the end of the rainy season
  • water occasionally on mild days or when there is a frost
  • Remove protective measures after the end of the frost period

tips

If possible, use a light-colored fleece to wrap the crown, as dark-colored fabrics heat up too much from the sun.

Overwinter the hemp palm in the bucket

In a bucket, Trachycarpus fortunei is only hardy down to - 5 °C, because the root ball freezes through faster. It should therefore overwinter in a winter quarters. The plant is surprisingly uncomplicated, as long as the space offered is frost-free.

  • between late September and early October
  • light and dark overwintering possible
  • temperatures of up to 20 °C are also permitted
  • However, adjust the pouring to the temperature
  • Hibernation ends in April or May, depending on weather conditions

tips

After a dark hibernation, the hemp palm should only be gradually accustomed to light, otherwise leaf burns can occur.

Overwinter in pots outside

In mild regions, a container plant can also be overwintered outside. Before the first frost, the bucket is wrapped thickly with insulating coconut mats (€21.90) and placed on styrofoam. The crown is protected in the same way as described for the planted specimen. Also choose a protected place for the bucket, for example on a house wall.

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Trees