Palm trees make you want to go on vacation and remind you of sun, beach and sea. In contrast to many other palms, the Chinese hemp palm is undemanding and easy to care for. It is even sometimes planted outdoors in this country. Does this mean it is hardy?
Is the Chinese hemp palm hardy?
The Chinese hemp palm is conditionally hardy and can withstand temperatures down to -18 °C. It can overwinter outdoors, but should be protected from winter moisture. At temperatures below -10 °C, it is recommended to protect the leaves or place the palm tree in a cool environment.
Your temperature minimum: – 18 °C
Due to its homeland, the Chinese hemp palm can tolerate a minimum temperature of -18 °C. In this country it can therefore easily be left outside over the winter without having to be protected. Even as a pot plant, it can stay on the balcony or terrace, for example.
Wetness is more dangerous than frost
The Chinese hemp palm reacts less sensitively to frost than to winter moisture. Their root area and palm heart in particular are sensitive to moisture. Therefore, make sure there is good drainage in the substrate.
It is better to protect the leaves to avoid damage
If temperatures fall below -10 °C, the leaves of this plant should be protected. Otherwise there is a risk of leaf damage or even the leaf fans falling off. Place the Chinese hemp palm in a protected location! It is also advisable to tie the leaves together at the top.
Winter indoors: recommended in harsh locations
If you live in particularly harsh locations, you should put your Chinese hemp palm inside in the winter. Indoor hibernation is also appropriate for the first 3 years of this plant's life. However, the palm tree should not come into the heated living room
Rooms with a cool temperature of between 5 and 10 °C are suitable. The rooms should be bright for overwintering. The following applies: the cooler, the less light is required.
If Chinese hemp palms are overwintered indoors, there is an increased risk of infestation by spider mites, mealybugs and scale insects. Therefore, make sure that the soil never dries out and spray the fronds if necessary.
Winter Care
During the winter time, note the following:
- Winter time is rest time (growth is slowed)
- water sparingly
- do not fertilize
- like to repot after winter
- If there is a threat of severe frost, cover with bark mulch or compost
- Wrap potted plants with bubble wrap (€34.00 on Amazon) in case of severe frost
Tip
Wetness is considered the number 1 cause of death. Therefore, protect your Chinese hemp palm from winter moisture, place it in a protected place if possible and pour away excess water in the saucer!
