Plan the perfect garden with our interactive tool →

How to Fertilize Potted Palms

Potted palm trees are a convenient way to grow and protect this tropical species. Containers allow easy transport and slower growth of palms which keeps large varieties a manageable size. With less light, cramped roots and low humidity, they grow much slower than their outdoor counterparts and as such require less fertilizer. It takes the perfect balance of fertilizer to feed a potted palm without burning the roots from over application. Slow-release pellets buried below the soil’s surface are the safest way to feed your palm.

Select appropriate fertilizer. For potted palms, control-release pellets are ideal as they are designed to shed layers of food over a three to four month period. Look for pellets specially formulated for palms that contain minor elements such as magnesium, iron and zinc.

  • Potted palm trees are a convenient way to grow and protect this tropical species.
  • For potted palms, control-release pellets are ideal as they are designed to shed layers of food over a three to four month period.

Bury one to two tbsp. of pellets beneath soil. Spread evenly throughout the entire soil of your potted palm.

Add pellets to soil twice a year--once in the spring and once in the summer is sufficient for most potted palms. Little to no fertilizer is needed in the winter months as the plant is not actively growing.

Care for your palm as normal. Water your palm regularly and prune as needed. Pellets are activated by warmth and moisture and will release food with repeated watering.

  • Spread evenly throughout the entire soil of your potted palm.
  • Water your palm regularly and prune as needed.

Tip

Add a scoop of fish blood or bone meal to the water jug with every other watering. This will give your palm a low dose of natural fertilizer.

Warning

Bring your potted palm indoors during freezing temperatures. Liquid based fertilizers can burn the roots of a palm tree if applied too heavily. Use control-release pellets to ensure the health of your palm.

Related Articles

How to Care for a Cataractarum Palm
How to Care for a Cataractarum Palm
Fertilizer for Windmill Palm Trees
Fertilizer for Windmill Palm Trees
How to Divide a Ponytail Palm
How to Divide a Ponytail Palm
How to Plant Queen Palm Trees in Containers
How to Plant Queen Palm Trees in Containers
The Growth Rate of the Sylvester Palm
The Growth Rate of the Sylvester Palm
Care for Majestic Palm
Care for Majestic Palm
How to Care for a Kentia Palm
How to Care for a Kentia Palm
Care of Majesty Palm Trees
Care of Majesty Palm Trees
How to Troubleshoot Cat Palm Leaves That Are Turning Brown
How to Troubleshoot Cat Palm Leaves That Are Turning...
Garden Guides
×