For many people, having a palm tree as part of their home is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also comforting. If a person has the decision to commit to their very own living palm tree, one must understand when is the most ideal time to bring it inside. There are a few key elements to know in order for the palm tree to survive the transition and grow to full maturity in the home.
The climate of the area the tree was purchased from plays a major role as to when to bring a palm tree inside. In geographical areas with warmer climates, like the Southwest or Florida, it would be best to bring the tree inside for the winter around October or November. This change in temperature allows for the tree to adjust over these months before the winter months take full effect. In colder regions, the time frame of when to bring a palm tree inside can be more lenient since the climate outdoors is already harsher when it comes to the growth of a palm tree.
The size of a palm tree also matters when considering when it is ideal to relocate it to the indoors. If the palm tree has recently been purchased, then it should be kept outside until it has grown to a more mature height. As a general rule it is best to keep a tree no smaller than four feet in order for it to can survive the transition indoors.
However, if the palm tree is smaller than four feet and the years’ winter months become extreme, then it can be best to bring the tree indoors early. Doing this will help to protect it from adverse weather and “shock” from the extreme temperature change. Palm trees with a height of four feet or smaller that are getting moved inside for the winter months should be done gradually.
It is important to note that not all palm trees are the same; therefore, it is also best to consult with a professional or expert in the field, such as a local nursery, in order to receive a personalized, in-depth suggestion as to when is best to bring the palm tree to the indoors.
Now, when it gets to the point of actually moving the palm tree, it is best to do so carefully. Using a dolly to roll the tree is usually the most efficient and successful way. It is ideal to hire professional movers, but if that is not a possibility then plan accordingly. This can include taking precautions such as having family and friends help support the base as it’s being rolled towards the destination in order to ensure the tree stays balanced and safe.
Once the tree is inside, careful evaluation and monitoring of the tree should take place. This should include providing adequate humidity and light, taking precautions to make sure the Palm tree has ample vitamins and minerals, and making sure that the tree is regularly watered.
How to Transition a Palm Tree Indoors
Much like the process of when to bring the tree indoors, transitioning it properly is also an important factor to consider. As a general rule, try not to move a palm tree if possible, even if a window is open in the room it may not be the ideal choice and a slow transition is necessary.
It may be best to begin the process by providing less light initially. This allows the tree to start readjusting to the new environment. One can do so by making sure the tree is not located near any sources of light, such as windows. This step should take place for about two to three weeks.
After the two to three weeks of dimness, all other factors must start to be taken into account. This includes monitoring and providing adequate humidity from a humidifier, regular watering, checking the soil to ensure the roots and palm tree are healthy, and providing adequate fertilizer.
Ensuring the proper isolation of the tree is also necessary. Since the indoor environment is not the same as the outdoor environment, temperatures may fluctuate accordingly. It is important to have strategies in place that can help adjust the environment in order to both protect the palm tree and give it the ideal conditions in order to thrive. This can include closing off air vents in order to keep the air level in the room consistent, which allows the tree to acclimatize to the environment of the room.
Potential Warning Signs After Transition
After the transition, it is best to be aware of any potential warning signs in order for the palm tree to remain healthy. Some signs include discoloration, dropping or yellowing of leaves and an inequitable growth rate.
A common problem is the development of brown edges on the leaves, this can be a sign of underwatering. It is important to pay attention to any leaf discoloration and provide the palm with an adequate amount of water on a consistent basis.
Another sign to be aware of is dropping leaves due to overwatering or an infestation or problem with the trunk or roots. If there is infestation then it is best to take action immediately to reduce the spreading of the insect.
Finally, it is important to monitor growth rate as this can be a sign of the tree receiving the wrong amount of nutrients. For example, if the bottom leaves are slowly becoming yellow while the top seems to be growing, that may be a sign of a lack of phosphorus in the soil.
Tips to Keep Your Palm Tree Healthy Indoors
Despite the potential warning signs, there are steps to take in order to maintain the health of a palm tree indoors. It is important for one to establish a source of light, temperature, and humidity that can sustain the health of the tree.
The use of natural light is ideal in order to monitor the growth of the tree. If the tree is not placed near a window, then using a grow light can help to supplement general lighting within the room. When it comes to warmth and temperatures, it is ideal that the room is kept between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Humidity is also essential for a palm tree to maintain excellent heath. Generally, the humidity of the room should be kept as close to natural outdoor humidity as possible. If the current humidity is not suitable, one can adjust the atmosphere by using a bowl of water and mothballs or by running a humidifier in order to reach an ideal humidity.
Finally, it is also important to provide a high quality fertilizer. This allows the tree to have a balanced diet of nutrients and maintain its normal growth rate. Releasing the right amount of and kind of fertilizer that is beneficial for a palm tree species is a natural way of ensuring it receives optimal nutrition.
Focusing on Repotting Your Tree
If the palm tree is too big to fit its current pot, then it is important to repot properly. The general rule is to plan for repotting every two to three years. Doing so allows for the roots and the soil to maintain good health, and also allows for the tree to still fit in the pot with relative ease.
When repotting the tree, it is best to take into consideration the size of the tree compared to the previous pot and the ideal size of the new one. When deciding on the new pot, it is best to err on the side of a larger size due to the natural growth of the palm and the root system.
When repotting, the soil should be mixed with a high grade fertilizer, compost, and sand. It also helps to have a pot with a drainage hole so as not to trap any water. It is also important for any pots used for originally indoor plants to be properly cleaned, and for any outdoor plants to be washed with a fungicide, as to avoid any infestations.
Conclusion
When it comes down to it, it is best to plan out when to bring a palm tree inside and provide it with the best environment, soil, water, and nutrition. Doing so allows the tree to thrive in its new environment and have a healthy life span to the best of the caretakers’ abilities.
