Many palms are slow-growing, and consequently, large specimens are often expensive. But don’t be deterred from growing palms; if you provide the right conditions, even small plants will gradually become impressive specimens.
Not all palms grow large, and many are compact enough for a tabletop. Some are even small enough to use in a bottle garden while young.
The most common mistake is to regard all palms as lovers of hot sunshine and desert-dry air. They often have to cope with both in countries where they grow outdoors, but as houseplants you want them to remain in good condition with unblemished leaves.
- Keep cool in winter, but not less than 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Keep out of direct sunshine unless you know that your palm revels in the sun (a few do).
- Use a good potting soil and ensure that the drainage is good.
- Repot only when it is absolutely essential, as palms dislike root disturbance. Always ensure that the new soil is firmly compacted if you do repot.
- Water liberally in spring and summer, sparingly in winter.
- Mist the plants frequently with water and sponge the leaves occasionally with water.
- Do not use an aerosol leaf shine.