In its homeland, the Canary Islands date palm hardly has to fear frost because, as its name suggests, it comes from southern regions. In our latitudes, the phoenix palm is a popular and widely purchased ornamental and houseplant.
Is the phoenix palm hardy and what is the best way to overwinter?
The phoenix palm is conditionally hardy and can tolerate frost down to around -5 °C. It should overwinter in a bright room at temperatures of 6°C to 12°C to promote its lifespan and vitality. In winter it requires less water and no fertilizer.
The phoenix palm can tolerate frost down to around -5 °C, so it is only partially hardy. It can be kept as a houseplant all year round or left outside in the garden or on the balcony throughout the summer. It can only survive the winter outside in a very mild area with temperatures around freezing point.
Where should my phoenix palm overwinter?
The phoenix palm should overwinter in a bright room. This can be a bright staircase or a winter garden. Drafts should be avoided if possible. The ideal temperature in this winter quarter is around 6 °C to 12 °C.
How do I care for my phoenix palm in winter?
Winter rest is also good for your phoenix palm in the living room. This way the palm tree can recover and gain strength for the next season. This extends the lifespan of your phoenix palm and strengthens its vitality and resistance to diseases and/or pests.
The phoenix palm can do without fertilizer in winter; over-fertilization can even lead to brown leaves. The palm tree also needs water in the cold season, but slightly less than in summer. Check the soil moisture every now and then before watering your palm tree.
Since spider mites occasionally occur on the phoenix palm in winter, you should regularly check the plant for pest infestation. Otherwise the phoenix palm does not require any special care.
The most important things in brief:
- frost hardy up to around -5 °C
- choose bright winter quarters
- ideal temperature for wintering: approx. 6 °C to 12 °C
- Winter rest for phoenix palms in the living room extends their lifespan and strengthens vitality
Tip
Your phoenix palm in the living room is also happy about winter rest in a bright, cool room. She thanks you for this break with vitality and longevity.
