Growing palm trees at home can add this tree's distinct look and aesthetic to any garden or landscaped area. However, as when planting all other trees and plants, take into consideration whether the soil in the area you plan to grow the palms is suitable for palm growth. Clay soils, for instance, are generally not suitable for palm tree growth, but can be amended to support healthy palm growth.
Instructions
1. Drill through your clay soil when preparing the planting hole for the palm tree. The primary problem with clay soils when growing palm trees is one of drainage. Dig a planting hole that is roughly twice the diameter of the palm's root ball and equal in height to the root ball. Drill through the soil to break up clay hardpans in soil that diminish drainage.
2. Adjust your palm's watering schedule to account for the clay soil's lack of drainage. Newly planted palms in sandy soils require more frequent watering than those in clay soils, since sandy soils drain much more quickly than clay. For clay soils, water every other day and check to make sure that the soils is not overly soggy when you water the palms.
3. Monitor the palms for any potential signs of over-watering stress, which can cause potentially serious health problems for your palms. As the palm grows and becomes established, you can back off watering frequency until the palm is fully established, at which point you can omit watering altogether. When watering, ensure the clay soil underneath the palm is draining throughout. Water so that the soil is moist to a depth of 2 feet but not soggy on the surface. If the clay soil continues to inhibit drainage, consider transplanting the palm to a more suitable location.
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