Overwintering the southern beauties so that they do not suffer any damage can be a challenge, especially with temperature-sensitive specimens. We'll explain to you the best way to go about winterizing.
How do I properly overwinter a palm tree?
In order for a palm tree to overwinter successfully, it should be brought indoors in the fall, watered sparingly and not fertilized. To do this, choose a cool, bright room with an even temperature and no drafts. For large specimens, wrapping them in plant fleece is an alternative.
Preparing for winter
So that the plant gets through the cold season well, you should stop fertilizing in late summer or early autumn. Check now for pests such as spider mites or aphids and treat the southern beauty accordingly.
Putting things away in the house
As soon as frost threatens, the palm trees are moved into the house.
Optimal places for wintering are:
- A bright winter garden that is unheated in the cold season.
- A greenhouse heated only to frost point.
- A draft-free, very cool staircase.
- Basement rooms in which plant lamps provide lighting depending on the temperature.
It is important that the temperature is uniform because the palm fronds immediately evaporate moisture when they fluctuate and the palm's metabolism goes completely out of control.
Care in winter
After wintering, the plants are only watered very sparingly. The rule of thumb applies here: the cooler and darker it is in the winter quarters, the less water the plant needs. Watering is only carried out when the top centimeters of the substrate feel very dry; fertilization is not carried out at all.
Pack up the palm tree and leave it outdoors
You can overwinter very large specimens in a well-protected place on the balcony or terrace. Plant fleeces in which you carefully wrap the palm tree are well suited for this purpose. Alternatively, retailers stock special palm houses that are ideal for wintering.
Tip
Winter-hardy outdoor palms that can withstand low temperatures still require sufficient winter protection. Spread a thick layer of mulch made of leaves and brushwood around the roots. We also recommend wrapping it in a suitable plant fleece.
