Just like any other plant in your home or garden, the Windmill Palm needs the right nutrients to really thrive. However, when it comes to feeding these beauties, “less is more” is the golden rule. You have to be a bit careful, because overdoing it can actually do more harm than good!
How much fertilizer do they need?
Generally speaking, palms are light feeders. Your Windmill Palm won’t keel over if you miss a feeding, but it *can* die if you give it too much. Nutrient burn is a real thing! To keep your palm happy and healthy, always lean toward being a little stingy with the fertilizer.
When is the best time to fertilize?
Timing is everything. You should only fertilize your Windmill Palm during its active growing season, which usually runs from late March through September. Once fall hits, the palm settles into its winter dormancy. During this rest period, put the fertilizer away! This applies to palms planted in the ground and those in pots—even if your potted palm is spending the winter in a cool spot indoors.
How often should you fertilize?
If you’re using a slow-release fertilizer, once at the start of the growing season is usually plenty. If you have an older palm that’s been in the same soil for a long time, you can give it a second boost in July.
If you prefer fertilizer spikes, just follow the instructions on the package—usually, that means once a month. If you’re using a liquid fertilizer mixed into your watering can, aim for a feeding every two to three weeks.
Liquid fertilizer vs. spikes
You’ll often see “specialty” palm fertilizers at the garden center with a hefty price tag. Honestly? You don’t need to break the bank. A standard fertilizer for green houseplants works perfectly fine.
Whether you choose liquid or spikes is really up to you and what fits your routine. For palms planted outdoors in the garden, I personally recommend a slow-release granular fertilizer.
Pro tip: Whatever the package recommends for dosage, I suggest cutting it back a little for a Windmill Palm. It’s the best way to ensure you don’t over-fertilize.
When should you skip the fertilizer?
As I mentioned, definitely don’t fertilize in the winter. You should also hold off on fertilizing right after repotting. Fresh potting soil is already packed with nutrients, and adding more right away is a recipe for over-fertilization. Give the plant some time to settle in first!
What’s the best soil for a Windmill Palm?
Windmill Palms aren’t too picky when it comes to their soil. You don’t need to hunt down a specific “palm mix.” Regular garden soil works just fine, but you want to make sure it drains well so the roots don’t get soggy. A great DIY mix for a Windmill Palm includes:
- Garden soil or compost
- Sand, gravel, or lava granulate
Adding that sand or gravel is key—it keeps the water moving and prevents the dreaded “wet feet” (root rot).
