How to help newly planted Bangalow palm?

[amanm]

https://photos.app.goo.gl/E2uspWzwfqdgwZEYA

Hello, we purchased these 3 M Bungalow Palms last week. They had been lying on the ground for 4-5 days and were planted in the ground yesterday. Looks like there are already two big issues:

• There are heavy winds; it looks like they are already bending towards the wind. 
• Some of the stems got bent or broken; maybe someone stepped on them. In one case, the main stem seems broken. 

Is there a way to ensure they will do well?
 

[JacobZ]

Hi @amanm,

Most of them look alright, but while they are in the early stages of root growth, strong winds will have quite an effect on them.

I'd suggest you install some to support them while the roots are developing. As they are relatively tall, you'd want to use a tall stake such as these Growies 38 x 38mm 1800mm Hardwood Gardens Stakes and drive them into the ground around 600mm. Once installed, loosely tie the palms to them with soft plant ties such as this Pillar 45m Black Soft Fabric Tree Ties.

You'll also want to give them plenty of water so the roots can establish themselves. I would look to water them deeply 2-3 times a week in the first 3 months to help them establish a strong root system.

Unfortunately, there are no guarantees they will all survive, but staking and consistent watering will give you the best chance.

Allow me to tag our knowledgeable gardeners @Noelle and @robchin to see if they have any advice.

Jacob

[Noelle]

Hi @amanm 

Jacob has given some great advice about staking your palms to keep them stable while they settle into their growing positions.

Palms are naturally buffeted by winds and are reasonably flexible (they can be almost horizontal in really strong winds and still survive!) but until they have settled in and developed strong root systems, the added support from staking will ensure their roots are not damaged.

[robchin]

Hi Amanm.

Great to see  you getting into gardening and sharing. Great advice from @JacobZ 

If I could just make a couple of extra suggestions: 

• Use a 3-stake approach - 3 stakes for each plant, in an equilateral triangle. Say 40-50cm away from the trunk
• Always use a figure of 8 configuration when tying the tree to the stake. Don't tie them too tight. Should be tight enough so they stay in place but not so tight that they cut/deform the trunk. 
• Looking at the pictures - you'll probably want to tie as high up as you can without damaging the fronds  - this will vary from palm to palm

Should only need staking for first growing season - no more than 12 months. 

Good luck. 

 

[amanm]

Thanks for the inputs everyone!

I @robchin I tied before I read your comment. Hopefully its not too bad. https://photos.app.goo.gl/4fht2jnPWtATZsKb6

I think the way its planted is also not good. The soil is clay. Is there I can put on it like a fertilizer to make the plants survive.

[robchin]

Hi @amanm 

Your call but I would be changing the stakes. 

I don't think fertiliser is going to be an issue for you. But any generic controlled release fertiliser will be fine. I work at Bunnings and we sell a range of them. 

https://www.bunnings.com.au/richgro-5kg-all-purpose-complete-garden-fertiliser_p2961375 

[JacobZ]

Hi @amanm,

It won't work super-fast, but applications of Yates Gypsum Clay Breaker Soil Improver Granules will help break down the clay and improve soil drainage over time. Mixing some of this into the soil around the trees would be worthwhile.

Adding compost can also help to improve soil structure and drainage in your clay soils.

With either of these options, you will need to mix them into the soil, so be careful not to damage any roots. Using a hand fork for this would be a good option.

Jacob

[amanm]

Can I use liquid ground breaker so I don't have to dig? https://www.bunnings.com.au/multicrop-2l-groundbreaker_p2962284

[JacobZ]

Hi @amanm,

Yes, that should be fine.

Just make sure to follow the instructions closely.

Jacob