Although it doesn't fit our expectations of a palm tree, Trachycarpus fortunei, also known as the Chinese hemp palm, is actually hardy. But she still can't stand the bitter cold and constant wetness without our support. Which measures help depends on whether it is in a bed or a pot.
How do I protect Trachycarpus fortunei in winter?
To protect the hardy Trachycarpus fortunei (Chinese hemp palm), cover the root area with 30 cm of mulch, tie palm fronds loosely upwards with coconut rope and wrap the crown with light plant fleece. For potted plants, you can also provide root protection with coconut mats or plant fleece and insulating Styrofoam.
Winter protection for planted palm trees
Hopefully, when you planted the hemp palm, you remembered that it is only hardy outdoors down to -10 °C. As a result, it only belongs permanently in the garden bed in mild regions of the country. A soil that tends to become waterlogged would first have to be loosened up with plenty of coarse sand.
The best winter protection is a place near a south wall that is also protected from the wind. From the first to the last frost, these winter protection measures are added:
- spread a 30 cm thick layer of mulch in the root area
- made of straw, leaves or fir branches
- tie all palm fronds loosely upwards with a coconut rope
- Fill gaps with dry straw
- Wrap the crown with light plant fleece (€6.00 on Amazon)
- If it rains constantly, put an additional foil bag over it
- do not close the bottom so that air can get in
- Remove the bag on dry days
- water a little during clear frost and on mild days
Overwinter potted specimens in the house
Trachycarpus fortunei in a bucket is best kept in winter quarters. This must meet one single condition: freedom from frost! The palm tree doesn't care whether it is light or dark, cold or warm. It adapts to all circumstances and comes safely into spring. However, you must pay attention to these points when caring for it:
- the warmer it is in the room, the higher the water requirement
- do not fertilize when growth is dormant
- Dark overwintered specimens only slowly get used to light in spring
The length of wintering depends on the weather and is usually required from the end of September/mid-October to April. If late frosts threaten, the Chinese hemp palm must remain indoors until mid-May.
Alternative protection outside
In mild areas and mild winters, a hemp palm growing in a pot can also overwinter outside. Its crown also benefits from protective measures previously listed for the outdoor palm. Proceed as follows with the rest of the palm tree and the pot:
- Protect roots in the pot from the first frost
- Wrap the pot with coconut mats or plant fleece
- place on insulating Styrofoam
- Cover the root area of the plant with pine branches
- A protected winter location on a house wall is ideal
Tip
Make sure that the soil in the pot does not dry out completely, even in winter. However, only water the hemp palm on mild days and with small amounts of water.
