Hardy Palm

Any of the species of palm (Arecaceae) that are able to withstand colder temperatures and thrive in places not typically considered in the natural range for palms. Several are native to higher elevations in Asia and can tolerate hard freezes with little or no damage. Many of these species can be cultivated at high altitudes and in places that regularly see snow in winter.

Palm trees appreciate a sunny location with well-drained soil. Many Portlanders have heavy clay soil that holds a lot of water during rainy months, so preparing the soil well is an very important step in growing hardy palms successfully.

• Remove some of the clay (1/4 – 1/3) in the planting area.
• Dig a hole about as deep as the container and at least twice as wide. A wider hole is good, but don’t dig too deep – the plant will sink as soil settles.
• Mix pumice or grit and organic matter with the existing soil, blending it well.
• Use the blended soil to plant. Keep the soil level the same as it was in the container or slightly higher. Do not pile soil around the base of the trunk.
• Palms are well suited to growing in containers too. Use a well-drained soil or cactus mix for planting.

Hardy palms are slow to develop trunks and starting with plants that have a bit of size can help you succeed. It may be a good idea to shield the base of the trunk from winter rains for the first few years while they develop girth.

Winter winds can desiccate evergreen leaves, so planting in a spot where wind is minimal is ideal, especially for young plants. If that’s not possible, protect the fronds from wind by wrapping them with burlap or frost blanket in winter, or just be okay with a bit of browning and leaf damage.

Palm trees are not particularly drought tolerant, and deep regular watering is important during our hot mediterranean-style summers. Once a week should be adequate for newly-planted palms growing in the ground, but those growing in containers may need more.