Primitive Palm Decorations
Have you ever been tempted to hang decorations on a palm tree? The truth is, decorating these trees can be extremely damaging, both in the immediate future, and over the longer-term. Primitive cultures like the ones in Polynesia and Hawaii used to hang decorations on palm trees, usually to celebrate those trees’ power as symbols of life. However, today, it’s wise to consider the rather more serious consequences of decorating these trees.
Understanding Palm Trees
There are various types of palm trees (over 2,600 species, in fact), but all of them share some common characteristics and needs. Generally, these trees are large and need lots of daylight, fresh air, and plenty of water. To thrive, palms must also get plenty of nutritional supplements. Adding decorations, with their weight and additional stress on the branches, are an additional burden for palms to bear, and sap their already limited energy.
Aesthetic Damage
When decorations are added to palm trees, the aesthetic of these plants can be severely diminished. They will become top heavy and be at risk of being snapped off in strong winds. Unsightly lesions, fading or discoloring of the leaves, or even the death of the tree can be caused by the decorations. The wounds the decorations cause can even become the sites of infection, further weakening the tree and leading to more serious problems.
Environmental Consequences Of Decorating
The nuisance of drilling holes into palm trees to hang decorations is bad enough, but the consequences can be even more damaging. The trees become vulnerable to various diseases spread by root pathogens that look for weaknesses to infect, such as fungi and bacteria. When the infected trees become weakened, they cannot successfully compete for resources with healthy trees, leading to a decline in biodiversity.
Attracting Spiders and Other Pests
The additional decorations will attract birds, bats, and other pests that could damage the trees, or invite the presence of spiders and their webs. This would not only further damage the trees, but also become a health hazard if there are humans or animals nearby.
Legalities
In addition to the practical reasons for not decorating a palm tree, there are also legal implications. Some countries and regions allow for decorations on certain types of trees, yet even these places have restrictions on size, location, and permissible types of decorations. For example, in England, a Conservation Areas Officer can order that you immediately remove any decorations that are deemed to be offensive, unnecessary, or harmful to the tree.
Alternatives To Decorating
The best way to honor a palm tree is to respect it and leave it alone. However, if you are looking for a way of decorating it and recognizing its beauty, you can do so without actually adding decorations. Photography, oil and water paintings, and sketches are all options that can help you appreciate the tree’s unique shape, leaves, and bark.
Supporting Palm Trees
Palm trees appreciate help in the form of water, especially during times of drought. Applying a third of a gallon of water per week during such times will help these trees weather the dry spells. Additionally, applying a slow release fertilizer every two months can help supplement their overall needs.
Protecting From Disease
If you see signs of any parasites, such as whiteflies or midges, or diseases, be sure to contact a specialist immediately. These professionals are usually able to recommend the best possible course of action, while using the least intrusive treatments to eradicate the pests and diseases.
Maintaining Good Health
Along with the suggestions mentioned above, keeping the surrounding soil healthy and pruning the affected areas consistently, can prevent future damage to the organisms. Additionally, examining for any broken branches and clearing away any dead leaves provides an additional layer of protection for palm trees.
Defending Against Animals
Animals can also be a nuisance and cause damage to these trees. To protect the palms, common measures like building fences and using sprays, should be employed in order to keep them away. If any plants or animals that could attract vermin or pests, such as plants in pots or bird feeders, are present nearby, consider removing them.
Conclusion
To summarize, a palm tree is a majestic and beautiful addition to any landscape, and deserves respect. Decorating it with anything but admiration endangers the tree, reduces its aesthetic value, and is ultimately illegal in many places. To truly enjoy your palm, give it the care and attention it deserves, in order to preserve and protect it for generations to come.
