Question
I have a selection of palms grown from seed just under two years old. What mix of fertilizer do palms prefer for maximum growth. Our winters are fairly cold (40 degrees south),so the growing season is short for palms. Some will be kept potted, the hardier varieties will be planted out.
Any suggestions would be most helpful.
Thankyou.
Rod F.

Answer
Hi Rod,

I think you may be focused on the wrong thing if you are seeking maximum growth for your palms. It is optimal light that leads to optimal growth. Fertilizer is a relatively minor factor in growth rate despite fertilizer manufacturer claims to the contrary.

Fertilizer supplies nutrients for plants, but plants use these nutrients in minute quantities. Most good potting mixes already have an abundant supply of these nutrients and the addition of fertilizer is either redundant or overkill, particularly if the available light is less than ideal.

I am not trying to avoid your question, but I think your premise may be incorrect. In general, in a good growing environment, a complete fertilizer (one that contains trace elements, as well as the major elements) in a 3-1-2 nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium ratio is best. Brand name is entirely irrelevant.

A proper answer to your question would require specifics such as the Palm species your have, the type of potting mix you are using, the available light, the pot sizes, and the water frequency rate. All of these are related to proper use of fertilizer.

In my experience, unless you are a professional grower, providing proper light and water is about all you need to be concerned about.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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

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