Preparing the Soil
Bottle palm tree – or Hyophorbe lagenicaulis – grow over 20 feet and require specific conditions in order to flourish. The soil must be sandy, yet contain high levels of nutrients and moisture. The pH level should be between 5 and 7, although lower levels will suffice if there is a regular fertilization schedule in place. Investing in soil testing can help identify any underlying issues with the soil, such as deficiencies, and allow the gardener to use the appropriate product to amend it. Additionally, digging deep holes can prove beneficial to the health of the tree as the roots are allowed to spread.
Protecting the Roots
When planting a bottle palm tree, an effective way to ensure that the soil retains moisture and nutrients is by placing plastic sheeting around the perimeter of the soil – about ten inches down. The sheeting should be between two to four millimeters thick and ensure it is secured firmly. This will also help protect the root ball from erosion, as well as offer some protection from possible extreme temperatures.
Gathering Supplies
Prior to attempting to transport a bottle palm tree, it is important to consider the materials and tools needed. As the trunk grows up to three feet in diameter, a wheelbarrow and garden cart will prove invaluable in the artificial transportation of the tree. Gardening gloves are essential in their protection, as well as the structural security of the trunk once placed in the wheelbarrow. Additionally, the presence of a pickax will expedite the process tremendously.
Transplanting the Tree
Once at the prospective home of the bottle palm tree, its roots should be inspected to ensure there is no damage or rot present. Trimming the roots, should an indication of either be present, can help rectify the issue. Using the pickax, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and twice as deep as the soil is in the pot. Then carefully place the bottle palm into the hole, making sure to not overfill it with soil as the trunk needs to be able to escalate. Using the wheelbarrow, fill the remainder of the hole.
Filling the Space
Once the bottle palm tree is in its new home, the soil around its trunk can be spread out. This encourages the bottle palm tree’s roots to create a secure and stable environment for the tree by providing an intense level of nutrient resource as well as water retention. At this point, it is highly recommended to spread a freshly prepared half-inch layer of mulch in the area between the edge of the foliage to the plant’s trunk. This helps in protecting and providing insulation to the roots to prevent possible scorching from the sun.
Applying Palm Fertilizer
The nourishment of the bottle palm will depend heavily on the application of a fertilizer specifically for palms. This should be applied when the cold season is coming to an end and the warmer air is coming in as the palm growth cycles begin. A slow-release fertilizer should be applied to the remaining soil and then lightly watered so that it seeps into the area where the roots are. As the warm season progresses, repeat fertilizer applications and watering as needed.
Supporting Growth
Initial palm growth cycles can require the bottle palm tree to rely on support in the form of staking, during the late season cold. Staking a newly planted bottle palm tree eliminates the possibility of root hydration that may occur during a drought, as well as helps protect the tree against extreme weather. The staking should ensure that the tree is erect and helps eliminate any excess wind stress, as well as provide enough space for the tree to grow as its trunk expands.
Proper Watering
Once the bottle palm tree is set up for success with its new home, it requires weekly to bi-weekly watering. Refrain from applying the water to the trunk itself, as it may cause an issue with the tree’s bark. When watering, either a portable sprinkler, garden hose, or a soaker hose can be used. It is important to monitor the amount of water as too little can eliminate growth and too much causes root rot and eventual tree death.
Caring for a Developed Tree
As the bottle palm tree continues to grow, its foliage may require pruning to maintain its appearance, structure and health. This can be done with a pair of sharp, lightly oiled pruning shears. It is recommended to do this using a ladder, as the bottle palm tree can grow to heights of 20 feet. Additionally, the soil surrounding the tree should be inspected regularly to assess potential issues and generally evaluate tree health. This also helps determine how much fertilizer to add.
Regular Maintenance
It is vital for a gardener to stay consistently vigilat in terms of pest or disease activity. Insects, in particular, tend to be a huge risk to the longevity of the bottle palm tree. Always inspect the tree for any signs of infestation, from web and bug buildup, and act accordingly. Applying neem oil to the foliage may help keep away the pests, as well as offer some protection from the sun.
Helpful Tips
Planting a bottle palm can be a rewarding experience, provided that the gardener applies the correct attitude and care. Providing the right amount of nutrients, soil, and water will promote a happy and healthy lifestyle for a bottle palm. Additionally, pests can be deterred by proactive spraying as well as preemptive pruning. All of this will help to ensure the bottle palm tree’s growth is maximized and its beauty appreciated.
