Pygmy Date Palm

The name 'pygmy date palm' will probably key you in on the fact that it has to do with a pygmy (small) sized version of a date palm tree. When you think of date palms though, the first thing you think of is the sheer height of the trees, and that is exactly what this palm tree type is not about. This tree (Phoenix Roebelenii) runs to a height of 7-10 feet maximally and is usually cultivated to form very attractive designs with its patent feather like leaves. This tree is the perfect choice to make for areas which have less space, and therefore, is a popular choice for people to make. In the article that follows, we will learn a little something more about these tree and what it entails to care for them.

Tree Care

The pygmy date palm tree can be cultivated to mold into several forms. It can be grown in the yard, as a part of container gardening or even in a small patch of land. The other advantage that it lends to is that it can be cultivated into several designs. In the sense that the tree usually has a single trunk, but it can be grown in clumps such that there are a bunch of trunks, each with their own set of leaves that cluster out in a bunch.

About the Tree
This tree grows as a part of triplets or in pairs. It starts off as a small plant and then grows to a height of 10 feet at a rather slow pace. The tree develops sucklings as it grows, which start off as individual plants at the base of the root and then develop into individual palm trees. One can grow different specimens of these trees at a single spot so that there are several varieties of the same that grow away from each other and thereby branch out to create an attractive design. As they grow, they develop markings and designs on the trunk because of the shedding of the old fronds. The leaves of the tree can be about 4 feet in length and are characterized by sharp spikes. The fruit (dates) of this tree grow in clusters below the leaves and are about half an inch long. These are red to dark brown or purple in color and have a very fleshy texture that has a huge seed in the center.

Sun and Soil
The tree thrives well in most soil types but requires a moist base for better growth. So make sure that the soil is porous such that it can maintain moisture. It requires full sun while growing it indoors. But one has to make sure that there is provision for shade as well so that it is protected from the wind. If it is planted outdoors, make sure that it has enough shade, so palm plant care can be achieved by planting it near a wall or under a bigger tree.

Planting Technique
The tree can be grown from the seed or from a sapling. If it is allowed to germinate from seeds, it will take 3-4 months for it to develop, this time will be shortened if they are grown from young saplings. In both cases, the soil should be kept moist and protected from harsh sunlight.

Aftercare Steps

• Water the plants once a week. Make sure that the roots are sufficiently watered so that there is no drying involved. Make sure that there is no water logging because that can cause the roots to rot. Keep this important point of caring for palm trees in mind.
• Fertilize the plants while they grow so that they have the necessary nutrients of magnesium and manganese. After that, fertilize the plants 3 times a year. This should be done in the hot months.
• Make sure that you clean the foliage and trim the discolored and decaying leaves, especially at the bottom.
• The pygmy date tree might need to be re-planted (if in a pot) every 2-3 years.
• Keep the plants away from the cold to prevent browning and reddening of the leaves. Make sure that there is a warm climate provided for it.

The pygmy date palm is one of the best choices to make for a garden as well as a semi-indoor plant. Not only does it look good but it does not require excessive care either. Which makes this plant a very good choice to make.