Caring for a Palm Tree Cutting
Caring for a new palm tree cutting can be a rewarding experience for anyone looking for the perfect addition to their landscape. Planting a tree from a cutting is a form of propagation and involves cutting away a branch from a mature tree and planting it in the ground. The new tree will possess the same genetic make-up of the parent tree, as the roots will originate from the cutting.
Propagating from a cutting can often be more successful than propagating from seed as it can express the desirable qualities of the parent tree much faster. It is also an economical way to increase the number of rare and exotic species in a region.
Obtaining a Cutting
The quality of a cutting is the single most important factor in determining a successful transplant. Make sure to select a healthy and strong cutting that shows signs of vigorous growth. Avoid any sickly-looking or ragged parts that may have been inflicted by disease or harsh weather conditions. It is also wise to look for a cutting with a diameter of 2-3 inches (5-7 cm).
Once you have selected your cutting, try to source the cuttings from a reputable nursery and ask for advice from the nursery staff. The cutting should be firm and unharmed. Handle the cutting gently and protect from any damage from the environment until ready for planting.
Preparing the Cutting
To prepare the cutting for planting, firstly remove any foliage from the bottom two-thirds of the cutting as this would hinder the rooting process. Then, soak the cutting for about an hour in lukewarm water to soften the wood and encourage any micro-organisms to move towards the roots.
Once fully soaked and ready, treat the cutting with a rooting hormone to stimulate the development of root systems. It is important to use a compound that is designed specifically for palm tree cuttings as certain types of rooting hormones have specific rooting agents and other ingredients that will help aid in rooting.
Planting the Cutting
For the ideal planting media, try to source a sandy loam which is an optimal combination of sand and fine-textured soil for the development of healthy roots. It is not theoretically necessary to add fertilizers to the planting media; fertilizers can be added after successful rooting.
Before planting your palm tree cutting, make a hole roughly 2 or 3 times larger than the diameter of the cutting and back fill the area with the sandy loam. Gently position the cutting in the planting area and carefully fill in the area all around the palm cutting. Firm the planting media around and on top of the cutting by pressing the soil down with your fingers.
Rooting
It is very important to provide the cutting with the right environment when attempting to root. The cutting should be placed in a sheltered, warm, and moist area in the garden as these conditions are necessary for successful rooting.
To provide the cutting with adequate moisture, lightly mist the soil 3-4 times a day. Keep up this schedule for the first few weeks and then water more deeply every week thereafter. This helps keep the area moist and can also help guide new roots to the soil for their source of water.
Beyond that, be extra careful not to over-water the cutting as this can cause rot and make sure to avoid any direct sunlight.
Maintaining
Once the cuttings start rooting, you’ll notice new leaves appearing. This is an indication that the cutting is establishing roots and will live. With the right care, the cutting can now be transplanted further into the garden.
Be sure to monitor the new palm tree and provide it with a general fertilizing every year as this aids in its growth and health. Proper fertilization helps the roots receive the necessary nutrients it needs to help become established and grow.
The tree will also need to be pruned regularly, so be sure to take the time to do this. Pruning helps to keep the tree healthy by removing any dead or diseased branches while maintaining an even shape.
Insect Protection
To protect the cutting from any insect activity, it is wise to apply an appropriate insecticide to the young tree. These products help to protect the palm from such attack and also help to restore its strength.
Finally, palm tree cuttings will also benefit from an appropriate fungicide, which helps to protect the roots from disease and ensures that the palm remains healthy and vibrant.
Transplanting
When the cutting is ready to be transplanted, slowly ease it out of the soil and, without damaging any of the roots, transfer it to its permanent position. As with any other tree, a palm cutting will benefit from a deep watering and mulching at planting time.
Once the cutting has been transplanted to its new position, gently firm the soil around its base and water the area regularly. Regular watering should continue to be a regular treatment while caring for a palm tree cutting, but don’t forget to avoid over-watering.
Container Growing of Palms
Container growing of palms is a great way to start a new tree. Once the initial rooting process is complete, the cutting can be planted in a large pot with quality planting media, like a peat-based compost with slow-release fertilizer, for extra protection.
The size and type of container should be relative to the size of the cutting. Taller palms and broad leaf cutting should use deeper, larger pots. In addition, caring for the tree does not change significantly; become aware of any danger signs such as yellowing leaves, fading of color and unusual dryness.
Coconut Palms
Cuttings from coconut palms, unlike other palms, can be planted in shallow containers and yields bountiful results. To get a successful root system, use fiber or pith pots with a depth of 7-10 centimeters and a width of 15-20 centimeters. The cuts should also be made an inch (2.5cm) below the base of the coconut.
The planting location must also provide direct sunlight with 50-75% shading and adequate drainage in the area. Upon planting, water the cutting a few times a day and apply a fertilizer that is high in potassium twice in a month. It is also important to replenish the organic matter in the soil by frequently adding compost or compost humus to the mix.
Passion Fruit Palms
Passion fruit palms are a favorite among gardeners. In comparison to other palm trees, passion fruit palms are more fragile and need more attention. To make sure that the roots of the cutting penetrate properly, it is necessary to cut the top and bottom of the cutting to promote a larger root surface.
In terms of the planting media, a mixture of compost and soil should be used to fill the pot. To keep the foliage and
