Winter is a harsh time of year for many plants and trees, including the beloved palm. These warm weather fixtures will suffer the effects of cold weather if not properly protected, and it can be especially devastating when temperatures plummet in the unpredictable winter months. In certain parts of the world, it can even get cold enough to kill a palm tree, leaving gardeners feeling helpless. But all hope is not lost! Knowing the right steps to take soon after a freeze can help restore a struggling palm to full health.
The first step towards saving your tree is to assess the damage. Depending on how cold the temperatures got, there may be more than meets the eye. Be sure to look for signs of stress, such as discolored, wilting leaves and brown tips. After observing the hardiest fronds the on the tree, it’s important to look for signs of life underneath. If more leaves have died than are still alive, the tree may not be worth saving. On the other hand, if there’s a majority of robust leaves, then the tree can be nursed back to health.
To ensure that the palm is well protected against further damage, gardeners can cover their tree with a cloth or clean plastic bag during frosty nights. Warmth and humidity will be preserved beneath the covering, preventing the lost of turgor pressure, which can lead to weak or wilted fronds. On a long term basis, it might be necessary to move the trees to a warmer location.
As intimidating as a freeze can be, fasting and proper care are essential to preventing any further destruction to the tree. If a thorough assessment shows that it’s salvageable, gardeners can gradually begin feeding the tree. A light, balanced fertilizer like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is the key to helping the palm recover from a freeze. A high quality organic fertilizer with added micronutrients may be necessary for optimal health, but like all fertilizers, it should be used sparingly so as not to burn the tree.
Water is also an important component in the revival of a frozen palm. In the early springtime, the tree will benefit from a deep watering once every week or two, depending on the tree’s size. The soil should be kept moist, but not saturated, for optimal growth and health. As winter fades and we move into summer, this routine should be gradually reduced.
The most essential part of restoring a freezing damaged palm is patience. As with all plants, the recovery process takes time and the results won’t be seen overnight. When seasonal temperatures increase, the tree will begin to produce new growth and the gardeners’ efforts will be rewarded. In the mean time, it’s important to continue proper care and maintenance and keep a careful watch on the tree’s condition as it adjusts to a warmer environment.
Removing Debris
It’s crucial to remove any damaged or dead foliage from the tree as soon as possible to prevent spreading disease and giving opportunistic fungus and pests a chance to establish themselves and cause even more damage. Dead leaves can be pruned from the tree, taking care to never cut too many branches from one side as this can unbalance the tree. Be sure to bag up the debris and dispose of it properly.
Good Quality Mulch
A high quality mulch can go a long way in preserving the newly restored palm. Mulch insulates the tree’s roots while keeping the soil moist and well aerated and preventing the growth of weeds. A layer of mulch should cover an area of at least 2.5 feet around the trunk, but not actually touch the base of the tree itself.
Fungicides and Pesticides
If large scale damage is present or the tree is particularly prone to diseases or pests, gardeners may choose to apply a fungicide or pesticide to the tree. It goes without saying that these treatments should only be used as a last resort and never without consulting an arborist or experienced gardener. Applying these treatments improperly can cause more harm than good.
Leaf Trimming
Over time, leaves will accumulate on the tree and can stunt its growth if left unchecked. If your tree is looking a bit overgrown, a proper leaf trimming might be necessary. The right tool for the job is essential; a pair of pruning shears should make quick work of the task while preventing any undue damage to the lyropodium.
