Question
My husband just bought me two palm trees for our anniversary, a Pygmy Date Palm and a Majesty Palm.  I've tried to find out how to care for them, but I keep coming across conflicting information.  What is your best advice for me  

Answer
Hi Sandra,

Pygmy date palm does best in very bright indirect light with a few hours of direct sun early or late in the day; right in front of an east or west window is best. It will not do well more than a few feet from an uncovered window.

Keep the soil evenly moist by watering thoroughly as soon as the surface of the soil feels dry. The soil should be porous and loose. Keep it tightly potted and watch for spider mites and mealybugs.

I am in an awkward position in telling you about the majesty palm. That is because I know it was a well-intentioned gift, but I also know that it is nearly impossible to keep this plant looking good for more than 6 months to a year. This plant has a terrible track record because it requires more light than is available in most homes.

So provide as much light as possible. Do not repot it. Keep the soil moist. And keep your expectations low. Finally, advise your husband that if it does poorly, it is not due to neglect on your part.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If this contradicts other information and you would like a further explanation, let me know what you have learned and I will do my best to resolve the differences.

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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