Parlor Palms: The Perfect Houseplants for Beginners
Introduction
Parlor palms are the perfect houseplants for beginners. They’re easy to care for, don’t need a lot of light, and can even help purify the air in your home. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about growing and caring for parlor palms.
Choosing the Right Parlor Palm
There are many different varieties of parlor palms, so you can choose one that fits your space and style. Some popular varieties include:
- Areca palm: This is a tall, slender palm with graceful, arching fronds.
- Cat palm: This is a smaller palm with shorter, wider fronds.
- Lady palm: This is a bushy palm with a dense canopy of fronds.
Planting Your Parlor Palm
Parlor palms can be planted in pots or directly in the ground. If you’re planting in a pot, choose one that is at least 12 inches wide and has drainage holes. Use a potting mix that is well-draining and contains plenty of organic matter.
If you’re planting in the ground, choose a spot that receives bright indirect light. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the palm and just as deep. Place the palm in the hole and fill it back in with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
Watering Your Parlor Palm
Parlor palms don’t need a lot of water. In fact, it’s better to underwater than overwater them. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Water more frequently during the summer and less frequently during the winter.
Fertilizing Your Parlor Palm
Parlor palms don’t need a lot of fertilizer. Fertilize them once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Repotting Your Parlor Palm
Parlor palms grow slowly, so you won’t need to repot them very often. Repot them every 2-3 years, or when they start to outgrow their pot.
Common Problems
Parlor palms are relatively pest- and disease-free. However, they can sometimes be affected by:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves.
- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can be found on the undersides of leaves.
- Scale: These small, brown insects can form a crusty coating on the leaves and stems.
Benefits of Parlor Palms
Parlor palms offer a number of benefits, including:
- They purify the air: Parlor palms can remove toxins from the air, such as formaldehyde and benzene.
- They’re easy to care for: Parlor palms are very low-maintenance plants.
- They’re attractive: Parlor palms have beautiful, graceful fronds that can add a touch of elegance to any room.
Conclusion
Parlor palms are a great choice for beginner gardeners. They’re easy to care for, don’t need a lot of light, and can even help purify the air in your home. With a little care and attention, your parlor palm will thrive for many years to come.