Choosing a Palm

In general, four factors should be considered when choosing a palm tree for your property. The first factor is the size of the tree at maturity. Remember: that little palm for sale at a local nursery might reach a height of 50 feet or more as an adult tree overpowering the rest of your property, interfering with overhead lines and underground conduits and perhaps, threatening buildings if the tree is planted too nearby. Make sure that the size of your palm at maturity is in keeping with your needs and overall landscape design.

The second factor is temperature. Most types of palm tree will not tolerate freezing weather and even a short bout of frost may weaken a tree and leave it vulnerable to insects and disease. In some areas of Arizona or California, for example, the climate is simply too severe for successful palm growth. Check with your local nursery or tree expert for advice if you're unsure about growing conditions in your area.

The fourth factor is sunlight. Not all varieties of palm tree are equally sun tolerant. Some varieties, in fact, prefer shady conditions to full exposure. Keep this in mind when thinking of the kind of palm tree that would be best for you.

The final factor is water. While palm trees have long been associated with desert conditions, in the wild, they are only found near abundant and continuous supplies of water. If you are thinking about planting a palm tree on your property, make sure that the tree will receive adequate water and be prepared to water a newly transplanted tree frequently while it acclimatizes.