Palms in Hawaiian Gardens pg.3
The cleaned seeds may be planted in flats or shallow boxes filled with suitable media. A mixture of half peat moss and half perlite ( a sponge rock or vermiculite) has proved satisfactory. Cover the seeds with a 1/8 to 1 inch of media, depending on the size of the seed. Keep the media in the flats moist but not wet. Damping-off fungi are likely to destroy the tiny seedlings if the soil is kept soggy. Fungicides used as directed by the manufacturer will help prevent this problem. Place flats in a well-lighted area protected from direct sunlight and chilling winds. Most palm seeds germinate faster when soil temperature is maintained at 85 degrees to 90 degrees F.
Germination time of palm seed varies widely with the species. Some, such as Archontophoenix alexandrae, Pigafetta, and Washingtonia, will emerge in three to four weeks, while other palms will not emerge from the ground for several months following planting. Some seeds have been known to remain dormant in the ground for several years before germinating.
Pot the plants almost as soon as they come up, or no later than when 1 to 2o inches high. A suggested potting mixture is one third soil, one third cinder, and one third well-rotted compost or peat moss with a small amount of fertilizer added. Fertilize monthly with a balanced formula such as 14-14-14 or 16-16-16 at the rate of 1/2 teaspoon in 1 gallon of water. Fish emulsion is also good at the rate suggested on the label.
Cultural Requirements
Palms prefer either full sun or shade, depending on the species. Most young plants in the juvenile stage do best with filtered sun.
Young palms require special attention until established; then they thrive with little attention other than fertilizer and water. Seedlings should be re-potted in larger containers when the roots begin to fill the container but before they become root-bound and stunted. When the palms are large enough they may be planted in the ground. Before planting, check references like Palms of the World (McCurrach, 1960) and Supplement to Palms of the World(Langlois, 1976) for specific habitat information.
