A sun-drenched spot in the summer and a frost-free quarter in the winter, that's what every Washingtonia palm tree should have. This means the basis for he althy growth has already been laid. The care that then has to be provided remains manageable.
How do I care for a Washingtonia Robusta palm?
Washingtonia Robusta care includes frequent watering with soft water, regular fertilization, cutting dried leaves, occasional repotting and frost-free overwintering at 5 - 10 °C in bright rooms.
Watering summer and winter
The Washington palm, also known as the fan palm or petticoat palm, is literally thirsty for water. Your substrate must therefore be kept constantly moist. But watering “in reserve” is not possible because it cannot tolerate waterlogging. Reaching for the watering can every day is a must, especially on hot days. In winter, the top layer of substrate is allowed to dry out, but watering is still necessary then.
Tip
The leaves of this type of palm are sensitive to lime. Only water your fan palm with soft rainwater or lime-free or stale tap water.
Fast growth requires nutrients
Washingtonia robusta is one of the fast-growing palm trees. Annual growth can produce up to 20 new palm fronds. During the growing season, a balanced supply of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK fertilizer) is important.
- fertilize regularly at short intervals from April to September
- fertilize less frequently in winter depending on location
- use a liquid fertilizer
- z. B. special palm fertilizer (not a must)
- green manure also provides enough nutrients
- always only administer with irrigation water
- Observe the manufacturer’s dosage instructions
Only cut dried things
The palm tree has only one point of vegetation, the palm heart. This may not be cut at any time. If outer leaves dry out, you can cut them off at any time if you don't like them. However, leave about 5-10 cm of it on the trunk.
Repot regularly into a larger pot
Washingtonia robusta needs a stable, spacious pot in which it can extend its roots into the depths. A young palm tree needs to be repotted every year, an older specimen only every 2-3 years. The best time for repotting is spring or alternatively summer.
Wintering in the house
The Washington palm is only partially hardy, as frost damage to palm fronds can be expected at temperatures as low as -3 °C. If the thermometer drops below -8 °C, the entire palm tree dies. Overwinter the palm tree in a light place with a temperature of 5 – 10 °C. Pests can easily appear in warm rooms with dry heating air.
If you live in a mild region and have planted your palm tree in your garden, you will need to heat it in winter.
