I ordered 2 trachy's and 1 needle palm a few days ago, and they should arrive soon. They are said to be 2-3 feet tall. I have a new flower bed tilled on the east side of my house, and plan on planting the trachys about 2 feet from the foundation, with long-term functionality in mind. My question is: how do I go about planting these? Do I need to mix anything in with the soil? Do I need to fertilize? The soil in this bed is basically your average midwestern clay. I want to get this started off right, and I do plan on leaving these in the ground year-round, with the appropriate winter protection. Any and all replies are much appreciated. Thanks!
Eric
need advice on planting my new trachys outside! Newbie!!!
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Paul Ont
- Large Palm
- Posts: 1384
- Joined: Thu Dec 13, 2007 10:58 am
- Location: zone 6a Downtown Toronto and zone 5a Kingston
Eric,
Welcome aboard.
These palms tend to be very tolerant of different soil types, so I wouldn't worry too much about that aspect. If it were me I'd mix in a bag or 2 of some commercial soil mix, to add nutrients to the soil.
I'm a bit of an 'old' crank, but I want people to have success with their plants... So PLEASE remember to give these palm appropriate winter protection. If the Trachy falls below 5-8f it will be damaged (maybe even warmer for a first year plant) and the needle will get leaf damage if temps and or windchills fall to or below 0f! But, more improtantly, have fun!
Welcome aboard.
These palms tend to be very tolerant of different soil types, so I wouldn't worry too much about that aspect. If it were me I'd mix in a bag or 2 of some commercial soil mix, to add nutrients to the soil.
I'm a bit of an 'old' crank, but I want people to have success with their plants... So PLEASE remember to give these palm appropriate winter protection. If the Trachy falls below 5-8f it will be damaged (maybe even warmer for a first year plant) and the needle will get leaf damage if temps and or windchills fall to or below 0f! But, more improtantly, have fun!
<img src="http://weathersticker.wunderground.com/ ... /71265.gif" />
Welcome to the site Eric.
My opnion would be to get rid of some of the clay soil. Paul is right that they aren't picky about soil, but clay holds a bit of water so I'd think in a colder area it would be good to get rid of some of it.
I would mix in a wheel barrow 1 bag play sand, than half well draining potting soil and the rest native soil. That should do the trick I would think. You could also use a bag of cow manure for a top dressing.
As for fertilizing I would use a root stimulating liquid at first and let it get established for awhile. Some root stimulaters have a mild fertilizer. I just used some on my new banana grove as of yesterday.
As for winter protection you will need some but you have all summer. There are so many smart/creative people on this site that have already figured out what works the best that all you need to do is ask. You'll get all the info you need and some cool pictures as well.
Happy planting!
Bill
My opnion would be to get rid of some of the clay soil. Paul is right that they aren't picky about soil, but clay holds a bit of water so I'd think in a colder area it would be good to get rid of some of it.
I would mix in a wheel barrow 1 bag play sand, than half well draining potting soil and the rest native soil. That should do the trick I would think. You could also use a bag of cow manure for a top dressing.
As for fertilizing I would use a root stimulating liquid at first and let it get established for awhile. Some root stimulaters have a mild fertilizer. I just used some on my new banana grove as of yesterday.
As for winter protection you will need some but you have all summer. There are so many smart/creative people on this site that have already figured out what works the best that all you need to do is ask. You'll get all the info you need and some cool pictures as well.
Happy planting!
Bill
I have lots of fortunei and wagnerianus. I will base this for fortunei. Just some background..I am zone 8 living in the UK. My soil is acidic and the front is more alkaline. I found that the trachys adore shade, even deep shade. They look so healthy. I brought some that were chlorotic and in need of tlc. I placed them in shade. They have all turned healthy green. I tried them in sun and they did not like it much. When the temperature went over 28 degrees they really struggled. They are still some in full sun but they do not look half as healthy as thoses in shade. I modified the soil..for some to see what would happen. I have tried various experiments to see what conditions they like best. I would advise this.
A soil that does not dry out but is free draining
Because my soil is so high in leaf mould and very rich I add sharp sand to the soil for drainage. Your soil may be different
Dappled shade or shade is ideal (Canopy cover gives added protection against radiation freeze)
Heavy mulching with bark (retains moisture and protects roots in winter)
Avoid compacting the soil (watch were you put your feet)
This is one of the best if not the best palm you could be growing for hardiness, ease and speed of growth and aesthetic beauty. Good luck
A soil that does not dry out but is free draining
Because my soil is so high in leaf mould and very rich I add sharp sand to the soil for drainage. Your soil may be different
Dappled shade or shade is ideal (Canopy cover gives added protection against radiation freeze)
Heavy mulching with bark (retains moisture and protects roots in winter)
Avoid compacting the soil (watch were you put your feet)
This is one of the best if not the best palm you could be growing for hardiness, ease and speed of growth and aesthetic beauty. Good luck
Regards,
Mo
Mo