If you love having tall, graceful palms in your yard, it might be time to consider the California fan palm tree as an addition to your landscape. This palm tree thrives in warm climates and does well in the Pacific Northwest. It grows quickly and has fronds that are about 18 to 36 feet long, depending on its age and where you live. Washingtonia filifera trees can grow up to 50 feet high with trunks that are about 8 inches in diameter, but these trees can also be kept shorter by pruning regularly.
Overview
California fan palms are a beautiful addition to any landscape, but few people know how to grow them properly. With these five tips, you can have a thriving and healthy palm tree in your yard. 1) Planting is the first step. 2) Keep it well watered. 3) Give it plenty of sunlight. 4) Be careful with fertilizer – they need very little! 5) Prune carefully to prevent unwanted growth or disease.
Light and Temperature
California fan palms need plenty of light and warmth to thrive, so place the tree in a bright area with lots of sun. They are not too picky about their soil type, but it needs to be well-draining and slightly moist.
Soil, Irrigation, Fertilizer
California fan palm trees need well-drained, sandy soil and plenty of water. They are sensitive to fertilizer and should be fertilized every other year with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10.
Watering
California fan palms need about 1-3 gallons of water per day. If the tree is in a container, you should check it daily and water as needed. Even if it’s not in a container, it’s worth checking in on your tree every few days to make sure that it’s happy and healthy.
Plant Care
Palms are thirsty plants, so make sure to water them regularly and fertilize them monthly. They prefer a well-draining soil in the full sun or partial shade. Avoid planting them near septic tanks, gas lines, or other sources of pollution. And if you’re planting more than one palm tree, space them far enough apart so they have room to grow.
Pruning
Do this every time you water your plant, or once a month during the growing season. You can also remove old leaves when they have brown edges and fall off naturally.
Pests and Diseases
Palms are among the most drought-tolerant plants you can grow, and they require very little maintenance other than occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. However, if your palms begin to die or show signs of infection, it may be due to a variety of pests and diseases that affect these plants. The best course of action is to call an arborist who specializes in palm trees before attempting any treatments on your own.
