The tropical coconut palm is a staple of sandy beaches and island getaways. If you’re dreaming of bringing those vacation vibes to your own balcony, these palms make a fantastic centerpiece for a South Seas-inspired outdoor space.
Growing Your Palm in a Pot
If you want to move your coconut palm outside for the summer, getting the potting situation right is key. While coconut palms are actually pretty low-maintenance, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to keep them happy.
Tips for container growing:
- Use a nutrient-poor, well-draining substrate.
- Choose a pot that is at least slightly larger than the coconut itself.
- Keep the soil consistently moist.
The biggest “must” for a healthy palm is keeping the soil damp at all times. They’re forgiving enough to handle a short dry spell every now and then, but don’t make it a habit!
Keep it Warm and Shielded from Wind
A south-facing balcony is the absolute sweet spot for a coconut palm. Since the coconut’s native habitat is the tropics, it really can’t get warm enough for these plants. If you have a larger palm, it can even pull double duty by shading your windows and keeping your indoor rooms a bit cooler during the summer heat.
One thing these palms aren’t fans of? Constant wind. While they love a warm tropical ocean breeze, the drafts we get here tend to be a bit too chilly for them. If your balcony is on the breezy side, try placing your palm against a wall or grouping it with other plants to act as a windbreak. You could also put up a reed or bamboo screen—it blocks the wind and adds to that tropical aesthetic!
Pairing with Flowering Plants
To really nail that tropical oasis look, try pairing your coconut palm with other plants. Ornamental grasses are an easy, low-maintenance choice, but flowering plants really take the look to the next level.
Azaleas, Anthuriums (Flamingo Flowers), and Hibiscus all grow well in pots and look stunning next to a palm. Just a heads-up: don’t plant them in the same pot as the palm. They have different soil requirements, so it’s best to give everyone their own home. The best part? All of these beauties work just as well as houseplants once the weather cools down!
