How to bring potted Palms back to life?

[Steveyb1990]

Hi guys.  It seems Palms are a much covered topic here.  

I have these 3 little guys on my front porch, as you can see they’ve browned and dried out some degree. 2 are Cocos Palms and 1 a Kentia. 

Having spoken to a Gardner a local nursery, I’ve determined that my lightly running a watering can over them every other day is probably the culprit as it’s too little water too frequently. 

So now that I can address that, give them a good soaking probably twice a week, can they be brought back?  Or it best to simply cut off the browned leaves/fronds so the healthy part of the plants can recover?

Cheers. 

While we’re at it, what will keep these two Golden Canes, pictured at the bottom, happy that will eventually be planted in the backyard once they’ve been adjusted to sun?

 

 

[Jason]

Hi @Steveyb1990,

The Bunnings guide How to grow and care for palm trees should be very helpful for you. I note the watering recommendation is "usually once per week".

Jason

[EricL]

Hello @Steveyb1990 

It sounds like you're already on the right track with adjusting the watering routine for your Cocos Palms and Kentia, as consistent, deep watering is key to helping them recover. These palms are resilient, so with proper care, they should bounce back over time. Removing the browned and dried-out fronds is a good idea, as this will allow the plant to direct its energy toward new, healthy growth. Just be sure to cut the fronds cleanly near the base without damaging the stem.

For your Golden Canes, gradual exposure to sunlight is crucial to avoid shocking them before planting them in the backyard. Keep them in a spot with dappled or morning sunlight while they're still adjusting. To keep them happy in the meantime, ensure they have a rich, well-draining potting mix—Bunnings stocks excellent premium palm or tropical blends that would work well. Water deeply but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, and consider a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for palms, which you can find at the store.

Once they’re planted in your backyard, mulching around the base will help retain moisture and keep the roots cool. Regular watering during the warmer months, coupled with a balanced palm fertilizer every few months, will keep them thriving. With a bit of patience and the right care, all your palms should recover and flourish beautifully!

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Steveyb1990]

Thanks Eric.  

Unfortunately more of the Kentia has become dry and brown.  I’d like have to remove most of the plant I think.  

I think the soil dried out too much as it seems to drain too freely.  I will repot them into new soil but will likely have to severely cut it back. 

 

[EricL]

Hi @Steveyb1990 

I suggest giving it a go and make sure to use Seasol for the next few days to support the plant after transplanting it. While you are at repotting the plant double check that the drain holes in the pot are clear.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Steveyb1990]

Hi Eric.

Can I ask, these golden canes and other palms.  In Bunnings stores how often are they watered to stay green and healthy and grow?  Are they watered individually or by overhead broadcast sprinklers that water the whole area?

Thank you. 

[EricL]

Hi @Steveyb1990 

Yes, they do get watered with from overhead along with rest of the plants. Only certain sections get watered individually.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Steveyb1990]

They came back quite well, but now they’re holding too much moisture.  I think the pots are too big and soil isn’t ideal.  It’s been 3 weeks since last water and the moisture meter is still showing pretty moist and the cocos palm is yellowing and looking a bit sad.

I’ll repot them into smaller pots but I’m wondering what would be good to use in their soil mix.  I used either a cactus soil or premium potting mix last time.

[JacobZ]

Hi @Steveyb1990,

I'm not so sure your pots are too big, and I don't feel that reducing their size is the answer to your issue. If they are still moist after 3 weeks, then reducing the size of the pots will not change this fact. The problem is more likely due to a lack of drainage in your pots.

If you have a look at the bottom of the pots, are there drainage holes?

If not, grab a drill and put a few holes in the base of the pots to allow excess water to drain. Also, grab a plastic saucer of a suitable size for the pots to sit in. Having drainage holes with a saucer will create a reservoir where water is always available, but it will not allow the soil to sit sodden for weeks at a time. If they are overwatered, the water pressure will cause the excess water to flow down through the drainage holes and push up over the sides of the saucer.

If there are already drainage holes, then they may be blocked, in which case, you should take the plants and their soil out of the pot and add a layer of drainage gravel around 50mm thick to the bottom of the pot. Drainage gravel is much less likely to block the drainage holes than soil alone. The soil will sit on top of the drainage gravel and wick water up to the root layer, where your palms can put it to use. It is still worthwhile using a saucer if this is the method you need to take.

Any premium potting mix, such as this Scotts Osmocote 50L Premium Plus Superior Potting Mix, will be suitable for this application.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob