Feeding my new pygmy potted palm

[Newbee]

I live in SW Florida.  I have a new Pygmy palm in a pot in my lanai.  Do I need to feed it and when?

[PalmatierMeg]

Are you talking about a pygmy date palm: Phoenix roebelenii? I suggest you get Nutricote or Osmocote time release fertilizer formulated for palms. You can find it at Lowe's or HD. It should have instructions for feeding based on pot size. If you fertilize now, don't do so again until spring. And make sure you have a very well draining potting mix. Do not use dollar store cheap black indoor potting soil that turns to sludge when wet and causes root rot. Don't overwater, esp. in winter. This is a sun-loving palm.

Welcome to PalmTalk.

[Rickybobby]

I have 4 roebellinis in a 7g pot. These things have been touchable. First was because I bought them in a 3 gallon pot that was completely root bound and only went up sized slowly so I have no drainage issues. This is my healthiest palm I have  it always opens up new fronds and looks great. Right now it’s still like this in my palm room that’s about 75 consistant and light wise not too great. Doesn’t seem to matter

[kinzyjr]

They are pretty much care free in the ground here in Florida, especially once you get to Orlando or further south.  Meg's suggestion to use slow release fertilizer is a good one, especially if it contains Magnesium and Manganese.  This is easily the best adapted phoenix palm for Florida.  In a pot, just be mindful about repotting it if you're going to keep it as a container plant.  As it gets larger, it helps to have the pot on a wagon or something with wheels so that you can move it more easily.

Welcome to the forums, @Newbee!

[Newbee]

Thanks sooo much everyone!