Humans have used flora as interior decor for centuries. Around the 1850s, interior design began to drift away from cut flowers to plant like palms. Palm trees provide lush greenery and elegance in the home interior. A parlor palm is a classic example of Victorian home decor. During this period, plants were likely fertilized with organic food such as fish emulsion or bone meal. Today we have the added benefit of synthetic foods as an option.
What is the Best Fertilizer for Indoor Palm Trees?
The answer will depend upon the type of palm you grow. For instance, when you fertilize a ponytail palm, remember it is not a true palm. It is a succulent and closely related to Agave. These plants should be fed in early spring when new growth is observed. Use a diluted to half strength liquid fertilizer once per month during the growing season. The plant will not actively grow in winter and does not need supplemental nutrients. Alternately an organic seaweed fertilizer of 0-0-1 will provide all the plant’s necessary nutrients as well as amino acids. Most true palms that we find as houseplants originated in tropical forest regions, where they grew beneath dappled tree light. Soils would be rich in organic matter such as bark. In cultivation, the soil should resemble the natural site but, over time, the material will leech its nutrients due to watering. So, it is important to provide extra food during the growing season.
When to Fertilize Potted Palms
Containerized plants need more food than those in the ground. This is because consistent watering will push out nutrients in the soil. The flushing can reduce nutrient levels to nearly nothing in a few months. That means replacing the necessary vitamins, minerals, and macro-nutrients is important. Start fertilizing around March when the sun is staying out longer and the weather starts to warm. The longer day hours will signal to the plant that it is time to get out of dormancy and start growing. Palms will need fertilizer to fuel that growth and maintain their health. The main micro-nutrients the plants need are magnesium, iron, and zinc, as well as the proper balance of NPK.
How Often to Fertilize Palm Houseplants
The feeding schedule depends upon the type of fertilizer used. If you’re using a time release, these last for up to 3 months. Liquid foods may be diluted and given once per month. A foliar feed is also every month. The ideal NPK ratio for most palms is 12-4-12. For organic feeding, use a scoop of bone meal or dried fish blood in the water every other time. This is so mild it can be combined with a synthetic fertilizing program. Watch for signs of nutrient deficiency. For instance, a plant with yellow fronds is likely missing nitrogen. Magnesium deficiency is extremely common in container palms. The leaflets will sport broad yellow bands while the center remains green. Iron deficient plants develop necrotic spots, while those with manganese deficiency look similar but with curled edges. Supplement the soils once a diagnosis is confirmed.
