vv 6-22

Which Palm Trees are Best for Las Vegas
By: Howard Galin / Happy Gardening
Although there are many palm trees throughout
our community, no palms are indigenous to
Nevada and have been brought from different
locations. We should, therefore, be aware of which types of palm trees
can best adapt to their adopted new homes.
Unfortunately, many people in new homes, office buildings, shopping
centers and residential developments are quick to purchase these trees
that initially look good, but will prove, over time, to be costly landscaping
mistakes!
Let us look at some of the worst and best suited palms to plant in our
neighborhoods.
Two poor choices are Queen Palms and the Pygmy Date Palms.
The Queen Palm, native to California, does not do well in hot summers
and cold winters. They also require a soil with a lower pH level than that
found in Nevada.
The Pygmy Date Palms should only be grown in containers or in areas
protected from temperature and wind extreme, since it too is not suited
for our oppressive desert climate.
In addition, both palms require moderate to high water consumption
to survive.
Good choices for our area are The Mediterranean Fan, Windmill
Fan, Palmetto, and Mexican Fan since these palms can tolerate
extreme temperatures and low to moderate levels of water to survive.
I also recommend the Canary Date Palm (which resembles a large
pineapple!) Just make note that although it can tolerate temperature
extremes and is resistant to wind damage, it requires a greater amount of
water and will occasionally require costly “bark shaving” to maintain
its distinctive shape.
Once you have selected your tree and it is properly planted, ensure
that it is properly irrigated and given specific palm tree fertilizer. Unlike
other landscaping, it is best to plant, and to fertilize palms when the soil
is warm and the temperature is high (June through August) since palm
roots begin to absorb nutrients when the soil temperature is above 70F.
Make sure there are sufficient drips spaced properly around the
perimeter of the fronds because mature palms may require at least 20
gallons of water a day to flourish!
Have any questions? Contact me at: Theplantwhisperer28@gmail.
com
Howard Galin, a/k/a: “The Plant Whisperer” is a retired NYC
school administrator, transplanted in Las Vegas who devotes his
time to communicating with and lecturing about our native
plants.
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June 2022