Windmill Palm Tree Care

Windmill palm trees can survive in extremely cold conditions without severe damage. However, it is necessary to take some precautions for their healthy growth. The windmill palm tree is also known as Chinese or Chusan Fan Palm. It is widely used for tropical landscaping and gardening. They are very easy to maintain as they survive in any weather condition, accept any form of soil, and rarely get infected with diseases.

Tips to Take Care of a Windmill Palm Tree

Windmill palm tree is a versatile plant and is easy to maintain. Anyone can afford to keep it as it does not need extra care unlike other delicate trees and plants. It can also be kept indoors in pots.

Water
It is necessary to provide adequate amount of water to these trees. However, it is not good to drench the plant completely with water which might lead to root rot. You have to water the plant according to its requirements. Take a bucket of water and pour half the bucket in the root area and check if the area appears to be dry or moist. If the area still appears to be dry then pour the other half as well. You can also water the plant after some time, giving a considerable gap in between (several hours). If you live in a desert or a dry area then you can water the plant twice a week.

Sunlight
Proper amount of sunlight is a very important. Windmill palm tree needs partial sunlight. It can survive direct sunlight but it grows the best in partial sunlight. Moisture is important as well, and it cannot receive adequate amount of moisture in direct sunlight. Hence, windmill palm tree should be kept in the area which receives the least amount of sunlight.

Soil Condition
Care for windmill palm includes the aspect of proper soil conditions and the right ways to plant it. The windmill palm tree should be planted in such a way that its entire root system should be covered with the soil. For this, one should dig the soil twice the size of its root ball. After planting the tree, the surface should be covered with soil mixed with sand. You can also make a split for the drainage purpose.

Fertilizer
The windmill palm trees need a wide variety of nutrients which are lost due to excessively drained soil. You need to purchase the right kind of fertilizers for this purpose. There are specific fertilizers available in the market for these trees. Follow the instructions which are mentioned for the proper use of fertilizers.

Winter Care
It is true that windmill palm trees can survive in extremely cold conditions but it is advised to care of them during cold climate. Extremely cold weather can harm the tissues of the tree affecting the growth of its roots which makes them prone to diseases. To avoid this, wrap the trunk of the tree with a gunny bag and put straws of hay on the root area so that it gets completely covered. This will protect your tree during winter and also prevent it from getting infected by any disease. However, the gunny bag and hay should be removed immediately after winter or cold season.

These were some useful tips for taking effective care of the beautiful windmill palm tree. So, plant some in your house, garden, or near the poolside, for some exotic landscaping.