How to relocate large palms?

GregLogan

Hi Bunnings Community, Happy New Year!

We are considering relocating this palm in the photos from the backyard to the front yard - is there anything specific we should know about moving it? I recall that some treeferns need to have their fronds removed before moving - wondering if its the same for palms.

Many thanks in advance

Greg

MitchellMc

Happy New Year, @GregLogan!

Moving a palm is a bit different from a treefern. You generally don’t need to remove the fronds, unless they are very large or damaged, as they can actually help the palm survive the move by continuing photosynthesis. The key things are protecting the root ball and minimising stress on the plant. You’ll want to dig around the base to get as much of the root system as possible, keeping a good ball of soil intact. For taller palms, it’s often helpful to tie the fronds up gently so they don’t break while handling. In saying that, your plant has excessive fronds at the moment , so you could look at removing quite a few of the lower ones.

Once relocated, plant it at the same depth it was growing before and stake it in position, water it well, and keep it shaded for a week or two if the sun is harsh. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture. Avoid fertilising immediately; let it settle for a few weeks before giving it a feed.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell