Snow and frost? This doesn't exist at the equator. In the homeland of palm trees, mild temperatures prevail all year round. This is why the exotic plants are particularly sensitive to frost. With species-appropriate winter protection, you can still get your palm tree safely through the cold season. In this article you will find all the important information.
How do I protect palm trees from frost in winter?
To protect palm trees in winter, different measures should be taken depending on the intensity of frost: light protection by tying the leaves together, medium protection with straw or jute sacks, strong protection with bubble wrap or a temporary greenhouse. Cover roots with leaves, straw or bark mulch.
Are palm trees hardy?
Although palm trees cannot be said to be resistant to frost or cold, they can still tolerate temperatures just below freezing for a short time. The following factors decide whether a little frost will not harm your palm tree:
- age
- the variety
- the size
- the way of cultivation
A planted palm tree is significantly more frost-resistant than plants that you keep in a pot. While the leaves are generally not damaged by freezing temperatures and the trunk is also quite robust, the roots are very sensitive. In the bucket there is a greater risk of the substrate freezing. Sometimes it happens that some of the leaves of the palm tree turn yellow in winter and fall off a short time later. Don't worry, they will grow back throughout the year.
When and how long is winter protection required?
You don't have to hide your palm tree under a thick film all winter long. In the worst case scenario, this could even lead to the formation of mold. Each variety has an individual frost limit. Most of the time, the nursery or label will provide information about the limit. If temperatures fall to 5°C above this limit, you should apply winter protection.
Measures
Light winter protection
Tie the leaves together loosely, ensure there is sufficient air circulation, do not use wire
Medium winter protection
Tie the leaves together, put a straw or jute bag over the palm tree, wrap the entire trunk
Strong winter protection
- Ram the stick into the ground next to the palm tree (this should protrude slightly above the plant), place bubble wrap over the stick and palm tree
- Build a temporary greenhouse out of wood and glass
- Place an oil lamp or fan heater (€149.00 on Amazon) near the palm tree as a heat source
No matter how intensive the winter protection is in your region, it is always advisable to cover the roots with a layer of leaves, straw or bark mulch.
