Question
Will, i've been trying to catch you for days to ask my question.  thanks in advance an have a great weekend!!

we live in nashville, tn.....hot, hot (90+ already), humid summers.  we
just purchased 3 majestic palms and 1 chinese fan palm.  two majestic
palms are on the front stoop in direct sunlight most of the day
(southern exposure), watered thoroughly each day.  the other majestic
and fan
palm are in the rear patio area (northern exposure), a bit more shaded.  
all are watered well, they have been out for almost a week and still
look well, are they going to make it through the summer in the hot
humid
weather and direct sunlight?  All tags on the plants deem them as "house plants".  any tips are encouraged!!  air quality is
typically code orange or red all summer, can this affect palms? by the
way, planted in large plastic pots, miracle grow for trees soil.  
thanks in advance, have a great day!

scott & jen


Answer
Hi Scott & Jen,

I didn't know I was so elusive!

Plants that are grown as "houseplants" are intended for indoor use where the light is much less intense than it is outside. That means if you want to summer yours outside, then you will have to keep them in light shade and protected from direct sun rays at all times.

As long as they are outside in hot weather, they will both need frequent watering, although it is best if you wait until the top inch or two of soil dries to the touch in between waterings.

Neither of these plans will survive outside in the winter, so they will have to come inside. Both plants are problematic indoors. The fan palm is very wide and takes up lots of space and will need to be located right in front of a window. Otherwise, it should be fine.

The Majesty palm is my least favorite of all indoor plants because of its horrible track record as an indoor plant. Although it needs protection from direct outdoor sun, indoor direct sun may not be enough for it. This plant deteriorates very rapidly indoors even when properly cared for. It is rare for it to still look good after a year. Perhaps you will have better luck with it, but keep your expectations low.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]