Usually, the only way to start a palm tree is from seed.
Read on to learn how to grow a palm tree from seed.
Where to Get Your Seeds
Palm tree seeds can be purchased or harvested from flowering trees.
The Spruce / Gyscha Rendy
The seeds of most palms are held on branching fluorescences and vary in appearance depending on the species.
Use fresh palm seeds if possible because they sprout more readily.
Drop a palm tree seed into a bowl of warm water to see if it’s viable.
The Spruce / Gyscha Rendy
Seeds that float are not good.If the seed sinks, it’s more likely viable.
Coconut seeds are the exception because they can sprout after floating for a long time.
Be careful not to damage the seed coat that protects the inside.
The Spruce / Gyscha Rendy
Once you planted the palm seed, move the container to a warm and humid place.
A window box in a steamy bathroom is perfect.
The time to germination varies among palm species, but it’s probably longer than a typical plant.
Notable exceptions are palms from arid regions, which should be exposed to less humidity as seedlings.
Palm seedlings also need abundant light, and many species will thrive in dappled sunlight.
Many popular species of palm are susceptible to root shock from transplanting.
Do not transplant young palm trees until they have at least three or four sets of leaves.
For this reason, it’s a good idea to start palm seedlings in at least 4-inch containers.
The rate of growth for a palm seedling will vary depending on the species.
Use a palm fertilizer that has been formulated especially forpalm trees.
Palm seeds germinate best under high temperatures.
Between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended and temperatures between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit are optimal.
Full sun for most varieties works best.
Soak the palm seeds before planting for about one to seven days.
It’s important to change the water daily during this time.
Palm Seed Germination.University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension.
