Need to know about indoor palm tree help and care?

Question

Just got a lady palm and getting another on need some help. Wondering about the soil. Can I get some regular potting soil and mix it with some sand? as I know that palms dont like soggy soil and the sand will help.

Also am either getting a majesty palm or spindle palm from a local garden center. Wondering if this soil mixture will be ok as well? And I bought a general plant fertlizer and food because they didnt have specific palm food. I live in ohio not too common. Any help is greatly appreciated, thank you.

Answer 1

I work at a wholesale nursery in South Texas we grow approximately 20 varieties of palms. It's been my experience palms don't really care what soil they're in as long as they're not constantly soaked. Sand is good if you don't overdo it. Perlite is available there I'm sure and this would be an acceptable addition to the soil. If you can't find palm specific fertilizer try something with a lower rating, generally we find an 8-6-6 is satisfactory and wont cause frond burning. If your going to buy a light buy a full spectrum bulb but don't let it get too close as the heat could scorch the fronds. I keep a bottle palm inside and she loves her warm sunny spot, and regular watering. I feed her every month or so just depends on how she's lookin, nitrogen works wonders to green up a yellowed palm but can easily be overdone.  Good luck (=

p.s. cactus mix is perfect

Answer 2

I suggest since you are buying more palms from a local garden

center, that you ask them about the soil. They also sell specific

potting soil for palms along with palm fertilizer, if you want them.

As far as lighting goes, you need a bright, but indirect light

source, though they say Palms can survive in dim light.

(I have found that not so~!) They need pretty good light.

Hope this helps, and good luck!

Answer 3

Don't make the mistake some people do...expensive plant...expensive pot....Cheap Dirt....use good potting soil..make sure you have good drainage..add some rocks in the bottom of the pot before replanting..best if container also had drainage holes.A good water soluble fertilizer will be fine that's a little lower in phosphorus than nitrogen and potash (18-6-18) phosphorus is the middle number. Majesty palms can grow in the sun..but if they have been greenhouse grown they may need to adapt, morning sun would be fine.Setting it out side a couple times aweek for some fresh air and sun won't hurt..cept in winter time of course if you temp. dips below 32