How to grow palms in your garden

Andrew Mangwarara

MOST home gardens are currently in a sorry state because of the tall grass that has been left to grow unattended throughout the summer season.

However, at Mrs Joyce Chisese’s residence in Belvedere, Harare, the situation is different. It is inspiring.

The garden is composed of a great collection of palms, which she worked on to create a classy patch fit for the rich and famous.

The top-class landscaping has certainly increased the property’s value. This seems to have placed it at par with other properties in posh areas like Borrowdale.

But this is not rocket science; you can also develop your own palm garden.

The plant requires a good supply of water and large trees to shield it from intense sun rays.

While some palms are shrubs, others are tall.

Some can grow in the sun, while others can thrive in the shade.

To plant a palm, dig a hole at least one metre wide and one metre deep.

Mix the soil that would have been dug out with a wheelbarrow of well-decomposed manure, preferably of plant origin, as opposed to fresh chicken or horse manure.

You can add a compound fertiliser, like Compound D or X, but just a handful per hole (100g to 200g).

Once planted, brace the palm, which is a way of supporting it for at least a year until it has established sufficient roots to stay anchored.

To care for your palm, focus on irrigation, mulching and pruning old leaves as close to the trunk as possible.

Fertilise or add manure periodically.

Remember to position your palm in the correct place, either in the full sun or partly in the shade.

Ensure that the site is well-drained, as too much water can cause the roots to rot.

However, if your soil drains well, use mulch to retain moisture.

New palms should be watered frequently to help with the formation of roots.

Water the palms at least three times a week at the beginning.

Shield them from very cold temperatures.

Palms can experience fertiliser burn, nutrient deficiency, over-watering and inhospitable temperatures.

Aphids, mealybugs and boring insects can attack the plant.

Be wary of some herbicides as they cause problems for the tree.

Palms can be grown from fresh seed, suckers or by dividing plants.

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