Every Washingtonia palm should have a sun-kissed place in summer and a frost-free area in winter. The basis for healthy growth has already been laid. The care that then has to be provided remains manageable.

The most important thing for Washingtonia robusta is sun

Water summer and winter

The Washington palm, also known as the fan palm or petticoat palm, literally thirsts for water. Your substrate must therefore be kept constantly moist. But watering "in advance" is not possible with her because she does not tolerate waterlogging. Reaching for the watering can every day is a must, especially on hot days. In winter, the top layer of substrate is allowed to dry, but even then it is watered.

tips

The leaves of this palm species are sensitive to lime. Only water your fan palm with soft rainwater or lime-free or stagnant tap water.

Fast growth requires nutrients

The Washingtonia robusta is one of the fast-growing palms. Annual growth can produce up to 20 new palm fronds. A balanced supply of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK fertilizer) is therefore important during the growing season.

  • Fertilize regularly at short intervals from April to September
  • Fertilize less often in winter depending on location
  • use a liquid fertilizer
  • e.g. B. special palm fertilizer (not a must)
  • green manure also provides sufficient nutrients
  • only ever administer with irrigation water
  • Observe the manufacturer's dosage information

Only cut what is dry

The palm tree has only one growth point, the heart of the palm. This must not be cut at any time. If the outer leaves dry up, you can cut them off at any time if you don't like them. However, leave about 5-10 cm of it on the trunk.

Repot regularly into larger pots

Washingtonia robusta needs a stable, spacious pot in which it can also stretch its roots deep into the ground. A young palm tree must be repotted every year, an older specimen only every 2-3 years. The best time for repotting is spring or alternatively summer.

Overwinter in the house

The Washington palm is only partially hardy, because frost damage to palm fronds can already be expected at temperatures of around -3 °C. If the thermometer drops below -8 °C, the entire palm tree dies. Overwinter the palm in a bright place with a temperature of 5 - 10 °C. Pests can easily appear in warm rooms with dry heating air.

If you live in a mild region and have planted your palm tree in the garden, you need to heat it in winter.

Category:

Trees