Palms

Looking for a plant with history? Palms are thought to be one of the oldest living trees on earth. They're easy to care for and even easier on the eyes. They have unique foliage that grows unlike any other plant. Their fronds, which are large, divided leaves, grow thin, feather or fan-like leaves. There are over 2,500 species, each offering a greenscape of foliage that can make your home feel like the tropics, even in the dead of winter. 

The most common type of palm in the world of houseplants are part of the chamaedorea genus, with 107 different species. What makes them so popular? For one, they're true palms. A lot of plants don the palm name, but are actually not palms at all. This is why it's important to always do your research. 😉 Another reason this genus is adored is because the palms will stay on the smaller side. If you've ever been to a tropical place, you know that some palm trees are massive, towering over buildings, and likely unable to live inside. Chamaedorea allow you create your own tropical oasis without worrying about roof damage.

 

GENERAL CARE

LIGHT 
Low to bright indirect light, depending on the species.

WATER
Water once every 1-2 weeks or when soil is nearly dry. Palms are fairly drought-tolerant.

FEEDING
Use diluted plant food once a month in the spring and summer. Stop feeding in the fall and winter since the plant goes dormant and will not need the extra nutrients.

TOXICITY
Most palms are non-toxic and safe for pets, but always be sure to check your specific variety.

Care instructions are usually consistent for most palms, but we always recommend researching your specific plant to make sure you get it right the first time.

 

COMMON ISSUES

Pests can prove to be a burden if you're not careful with your palms. Because of their unique growth pattern, thin leaves, and deep crevices, spider mites and other bugs can stay out of site for a long time without being detected. That's why routine checkups are extremely important. Not sure what to look for? Usually, yellowing leaves, sticky sap, or unusual spotting can signal a problem. Keeping a bottle of neem oil on hand is highly recommended. Head to our pest control blog to make sure you're prepared for any unwanted surprises.

Seeing brown tips? This is one of the most common issues palm keepers face on their plant care journey. Usually, this is due to overwatering. Palms are tropical, so they love moisture, but they also need their dry periods to thrive. It's best to use a moisture meter to keep the ends of your leaves from browning. On the flip side, yellowing leaves can indicate that you're not watering enough. The key is to fully saturate the soil each time, and then let it almost dry fully before watering again.