Having an indoor palm tree in the home can be a great way to add a splash of greenery to your living space. Ikea’s potted palm tree, in particular, is a popular choice for many owner and the beauty it brings can bring the inside and out together in harmony. But, with any live plant, you need to ensure it properly taken care of.
The Ikea palm tree is usually a Christmas palm tree that grows thick and bushy leaves, and thrives in bright, indirect sun. It is drought-tolerant although some days it may need more water than others, depending on the temperature and other environmental conditions. When it comes to watering the tree, it should not be allowed to dry out or become waterlogged. The best way to maintain the tree is to check the top 1-2 inches of soil with your finger. If the soil is dry or the leaves start to show signs of wilting, it is time to give it some water.
The soil should be allowed to drain in between watering, as standing water can damage the roots and prevent them from accessing oxygen. Maintaining optimal drainage is important as any waterlogged soil can also cause root rot. If the soil feels overly wet, wait until it dries before adding more, as over-watering can be even more harmful than under-watering. To avoid this, choose a potting soil specifically for palms or use one that is mostly made up of perlite, peat moss, or bark.
The pot size should be kept in mind when taking care of the indoor palm. A pot that is too small can quickly fill up with water and promote root rot, so use an appropriately sized container. The soil should also be replaced once a year and feed a high-quality palm fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season.
Ikea palm trees also benefit from regular pruning, as this not only helps control the overall size and growth, but also ensures that it remains healthy. Pruning should be done only after the leaves have been dampened and can be done with a pair of clean scissors or hand clippers. If needed, yellowing leaves can also be removed, as they can be a sign of a pest issue or air that is too dry. To add some moisture, it helps to mist the leaves on hot days.
Lastly, it is important to pay attention to temperature and humidity, as both of these can make a huge difference for the health, growth and look of the Ikea palm tree. The palm tree flourishes best in temperatures between 60 to 80 degrees with humidity levels between 40 to 80%. Low humidity can dry out the plant and cause brown edges on the leaves, so misting them occasionally can help, as can placing a humidifier or a bowl of water nearby.
Fertilizing and Re-Potting
When it comes to fertilizing and re-potting the Ikea palm tree, it is best to do so in the spring. During this time, it is beneficial to feed your palm with a liquid fertilizer that is specifically formulated for palms, as it will help get the plant ready for a healthy growing season. When the pot gets too small and the roots start to circle, it is time to re-pot in a container that is slightly larger and made of a material that offers good drainage. Replace the old soil with a high-quality potting mix, as described above.
Pest Issues
Like all plants, the Ikea palm tree can be prone to certain pests, such as mites, aphids, scale and mealy bugs. If these pests become a problem, it helps to take a closer look and treat the plant as soon as possible to not only save it from further damage, but also protect other plants in your home. If you don’t have the right insecticides or pesticides at home, it is best to purchase them at a gardening store and follow the instructions carefully.
Moving the Plant
As the Ikea palm tree is a large and heavy pot, it is important not to move it around too often. When it does need to be moved, it is best to use a large trolley and recruit a friend to help. Moving the plant also takes a certain amount of care, as if the roots are disturbed too much, it can cause damage or even kill the plant. Gently releasing the roots from the pot and replanting in a new container should be done quickly and carefully.
Lighting Conditions
Lighting is a crucial factor when it comes to taking care of the Ikea palm tree, as the right amount of bright, indirect sun helps it grow thick and bushy. In the lowest light settings, the leaves will be a light green, whereas higher light levels will result in darker green leaves. Filtered sun, whether indoors or outdoors, is best and can provide the proper balance between light and shade that the plant needs to thrive.
Cleaning and Grooming
It is important to regularly clean the leaves of your Ikea palm with warm soapy water in order to prevent dust and grime settling, which can otherwise clog the pores of the plant, leading to the death of affected leaves. Particularly for those plants placed close to windows, regular cleaning can help the tree grow properly. Additionally, it is also important to remove dead leaves and remove any yellow leaves or brown edges that might have developed.
Air Circulation and Humidity
Good quality air circulation is as important for the plant as sufficient moisture. Poor air circulation can prevent the respiration of plants, causing roots to deteriorate and eventually leading to issues with stagnant soil, bacterial and fungal issues. To help keep indoors air clean and moist, place a fan near the palm tree and make sure to regularly open windows. Low humidity can also cause brown edges on leaves, so to increase the humidity around the palm tree, mist the leaves on hot days and add a humidifier or a bowl of water nearby.
