How do I know how often to water my Chusan palms. They seem to be doing ok but some of the leaves are a bit lighter in colour than others with what looks like burnt tips and look droopy. Being Palms I've been watering them conservatively and although they're holding their own, they could look healthier. Also is there a specific type of plant food I shoul be using ?

Answer #1 · Maple Tree's Answer · Hi Brian-If your palms are newly planted you will want to make sure they are kept moist, but not wet for the first month. Too wet a soil can cause root problems on palms. After this a slow deep soaking with a hose a couple of times a month during the warm summer months should be enough. In the winter months with some rain they most likely will need no supplimental watering. If no rain deep soaking once every month or so should be enough. If you are watering with a sprinkler system they may not be getting the water they need to the depth of their roots. Dig down 6 to 8 inches around the palm and make sure the soil feels cool and moist, not wet. It is always best to always water at the bottom of the tree. Sprinkler systems that get the crown of the palms wet can cause rotting problems also that can be indicated by wilting and browning leaves. These palms should always be planted in well draining soil, soil that does not hold too much water. Make sure when checking that the soil is not wet. Too dense or compacted soils should be amended with sand or planted in a sandy top soil.

Regarding fertilization, palm trees require specially formulated Palm Tree Fertilizers that answer to very specific conditions. If palms grow in your region, your local nursery and garden center should stock palm tree fertilizer. If not, ask them to order it for you. Follow instructions on product label for application rates.

The most important factor for a healthy palm tree is good soil. The type of soil determines how much nutrients and water the plant receives. The best contribution you can make to your palm tree's soil is the addition of beneficial mycorrhizal fungi. These fungi exist naturally in most soils that haven't been disturbed by tilling and haven't been treated with chemicals and chemical fertilizers. The word "mycorrhiza" comes from the Greek language and literally means "fungus roots". You may not know it, but mycorrhizal fungi are a crucial part of the health of 95% of the plants growing throughout the world. Organic compost is a good source of fungi. When planting a palm, be sure to add a small amount (a few double handfuls) to the backfill mixture.
Below I noted the link to the Chusan Palm plant file that will give you the information I noted above and other information you may be interested in. Just click on the link to go directly to the plant file.

http://www.gardenality.com/Plants/302/Trees/Windmill-Palm-Tree-.html#Tab=Feeding

Please ask if you have any other questions.

John)