Standing at a compact three feet tall, the Pygmy Date Palm is the perfect way to bring those breezy Mediterranean vibes into smaller rooms or onto your balcony. As long as you keep a few simple tips in mind, these tropical beauties are surprisingly hardy and easy to grow. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your green roommate happy and thriving!
How should I water it?
- Give your palm a deep soak whenever the root ball feels dry to the touch.
- Avoid “wet feet” at all costs! Make sure to dump out any excess water that collects in the saucer.
- These plants prefer soft water, so use filtered tap water or collected rainwater whenever possible.
What about fertilizer?
During the growing season (from April to October), feed your Phoenix Roebelenii every two weeks with a specialized palm fertilizer. Just be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the label exactly—more isn’t always better!
When and how do I repot?
Since Pygmy Date Palms are slow growers, you’ll only need to repot them every three to four years. Springtime is the best time to tackle this project.
- Choose a deep pot to give that long taproot plenty of room to stretch out.
- Cover the drainage holes at the bottom with a few pieces of broken pottery (terracotta shards).
- I highly recommend adding a drainage layer of expanded clay pebbles (LECA) to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.
- For soil, a high-quality commercial palm mix works great. You can also mix your own using mature compost, standard potting soil, and a bit of sand.
Should I prune it?
Here’s a golden rule: never cut the top off! Like all palms, the Pygmy Date Palm has a single growing point in the center of the crown. If you cut that, the plant won’t grow back. Only remove brown, dead fronds by cutting them about an inch or two away from the trunk. Or, if you’re not in a hurry, you can just wait for the plant to shed them naturally.
Winter care tips
While your Phoenix Roebelenii loves soaking up the sun outdoors during the summer, it’s a total tropical soul at heart. Since Pygmy Date Palms are not cold-hardy and are very sensitive to frost, you’ll need to bring yours inside once temperatures consistently drop below 60°F (15°C).
Find a bright, sunny spot indoors where temperatures stay between 65°F and 75°F. A cozy living room or a sun-drenched hallway is perfect.
Dealing with pests and diseases
Even though these palms are tough, they can occasionally attract uninvited guests like spider mites, thrips, or mealybugs. If you spot any, your local garden center has systemic treatments that work like a charm.
Pro Tip: To keep pests away during the dry winter months, give your palm a daily misting with lukewarm, soft water. They love the humidity!