GROWTH REGULATOR FOR PALMS

[Guest Dave L]

Many thanks for reading.

I have an all weather glasshouse in Western PA where I am growing 10 palms (8 varieties).  They were planted almost 2 years ago.  While I had some growing pains at first, I have overcome most issues and now they are doing very well.  The problem I foresee is that some will outgrow the space they are planted in.  I want to avoid any major pruning e..g. topping, so I am looking for alternatives to impede their upward growth (without limiting their ability to absorb nutrients).  I am using "Palm-Gain" 8-2-12 fertilizer and I have cut back to 2-3 times a year.  The only other fertilization I use is a bi-monthly soil treatment of worm compost tea....for all the plants.  I am seeking solutions that will ensure they continue to receive nutrients from the soil, and at the same time, slow down their upward growth.  I have begun to research plant growth regulators, but before I go down this path I am seeking input from those who may have tried some.   I know this may be a difficult task, but I am hoping some of you may have a suggestion.  

Many thanks in advance.  

Dave.  

Video attached

[D. Morrowii]

Sorry, I don't have any experience slowing palm growth but wow! Thats a very nice space you have there!  I would think restricting the space the roots have to grow or restricting light would have that effect but I expect it would be a balancing act keeping them healthy. I’d make the greenhouse 2 story :-)

[Guest Dave L]

Many thanks for your reply.....If I could I would increase the house size!  hopefully I will find a better alternative.

[BeyondTheGarden]

Maybe move them indoors to a cooler, shadier spot, cut back on water, and virtually stop fertilizing?  Cut back on the things that make them grow?

[Guest Dave L]

thanks for suggestions.  Unfortunately they are planted in the grow bed and not in pots, and yes I have curtailed the fertilizer...hoping for something more positive.  Thanks again

[BeyondTheGarden]

Oh Wow!  I just now noticed the video attachment, that is unreal!  Great work!  

If I don't end up moving to Florida, I want to do about exactly what you have done.  That is a little slice of carefully managed paradise.  

[Guest Dave L]

thanks....it was not without a great deal of work.  As well, keeping temperature and humidity controlled in Zone 5A does require some expense in natural gas and electricity.

[BeyondTheGarden]

Have you made a thread about this?  I am very interested in the environmental controls. 

[Steve in Florida]

If you want shorter petioles use a fertilizer mix like triple 8 or 10 with micros.  True growth inhibitors eventually cause obvious stunting when used repeatedly.

Edited October 17, 2021 by Steve in Florida