Phoenix Canariensis is not only one of the most popular indoor palms, it is also often cultivated outdoors in our latitudes. As summer comes to an end, the question arises for many owners: Is the palm tree hardy and can it be overwintered outdoors?
Is the Canary Island date palm hardy?
The Canary Islands date palm (Phoenix Canariensis) is conditionally hardy and can tolerate short-term, light frost. Older palm trees can withstand temperatures down to -10°C. Suitable frost protection measures should be taken outdoors, while potted plants should overwinter cool and frost-free.
Is Phoenix Canariensis frost resistant?
How frost-resistant your Canary Island date palm is depends, among other things, on the age and size of the plant. Even young specimens survive short, light frosts undamaged. Older palms tolerate cold relatively well and leaf damage only occurs when temperatures fall below minus 10 degrees.
With suitable frost protection measures, Phoenix Canariensis can definitely be overwintered outdoors in mild regions.
The right winter protection for planted palm trees
If there is permanent frost, the plant must be protected because the ground freezes and the evergreen plant can no longer supply itself with sufficient water. As a result, the palm tree dries up and dies.
- If the first frost is approaching, wrap the Canary Islands date palm loosely in jute cloths (€4.00 on Amazon), reed or bamboo mats. Plant fleece is also suitable.
- In regions where there is a risk of severe frost, you should also cover the soil around the trunk with an insulating layer of bark mulch, straw or fir branches.
To prevent rot from forming, the cold protection is removed on mild days. This supplies the roots with oxygen again and allows the fronds to dry.
Overwintering potted plants in the house
If your potted palm beautifies your balcony or terrace in the summer months, it is better not to put it in the warm living room in the cold season. The plants are used to the falling temperatures at night and have difficulty coping with the uniform conditions in living spaces.
- Bring the palm tree into the house when it gets noticeably colder at night.
- Place the plant in a cool but frost-free room. A bright, unheated garage or attic with light coming through a skylight is ideal.
Tip
If you live in a region where there is a risk of severe winters, you can place the Canary Islands date palm in an insulating, heatable plant pot. Make sure you have adequate winter protection and always switch on the heating when there is a risk of severe frost.
