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The kentia palm is one of the most elegant and expensive palms that can be used
in an indoor container. Ranging in size from 4ft. all the way up to 12ft. and beyond, a kentia is slow growing, durable, and
very forgiving. It has long (sometimes several feet) graceful, feathery, dark green leaves called fronds coming off of a single
thin trunk. This easy care palm can grow almost anywhere in your home and office except in direct sunlight.
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CARE OF KENTIA PALMS
Light: A kentia palm is an indoor plant that can survive in low light: conditions but will grow better and develop more fronds in medium indirect light.
Water: Water a kentia palm well and then allow the top few inches of soil to dry out before watering again. Over
watering, resulting in root rot, is the major reason why kentias die. The lower the light level, the less frequently kentias
need to be watered. Kentia palms, like most indoor palms, are very sensitive to chemicals in the water such as salt, fluoride,
and chlorine; use bottled water if your water has a high chemical concentration.
Fertilizer:
A kentia palm is a very slow growing plant and should only be fertilized once a month in the spring and summer with a basic
houseplant food. In very low light conditions, use the plant food at ½ strength.
Pests: Kentia palms can get spider mites and mealy bugs; but do not use the green solution. Palms should not be sprayed with anything containing alcohol; it may damage the leaves. Spray your plant with a soapy solution
made with a biodegradable soap. If this doesn’t get rid of the pests try using Safer Insecticidal Soap or Neem Oil.
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KENTIA PALM FAQ’S
1. My kentia Palm only has four fronds. My sister bought the exact plant I did and now her palm has about nine fronds.
What should I do to get more fronds?
You probably have your plant in low light. If you move it to better light
it will get more fronds.
2. The fronds of my palm have brown tips and are drooping.
Should I give it more plant food?
Your plant doesn’t need fertilizer it needs more water.
3. The top leaves of my kentia are getting spots; does a bug cause it?
Spotting on the
top fronds is usually the result of too much sun hitting the plant.
4. The ends
of the leaves of my kentia turn yellow and then the whole leave starts to turn gray/brown and crunchy.
The plant
has been over watered. Let it thoroughly dry out or you will lose it to root rot.
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