Nails in Palm Trees?

[Dypsisdean]

I don't usually do this. But since this person asked politely, and would probably have little use for registering on PalmTalk (now) - I am submitting this to the "brain trust." for her to see/read - and get some feedback. And perhaps she will find she has some use for PT and/or the IPS in the future.

Hi, Dean:

You are listed as the contact person for the “Palm Talk Forum” of the International Palm Society. I’m hoping that you can answer a question for me.
 
I’m a board member of a Mobile Home Park in Santa Cruz, CA. A volunteer made a beautiful hand carved, wooden 5mph speed sign. Then the sign was mounted to our 100 foot tall palm at the park entrance with either two nails or screws. I don’t know the length or type of the screws or nails that were used.

While the sign is effective, and quite visible and lovely mounted on the tree, I am worried that the tree will be harmed by the nails or screws. Could you tell me, please, if mounting the sign to our tree with 2 nails or screws has injured our palm tree?

Thank you,
Natalie Goff
Board Member
El Rio Mobile Home Park Cooperative

[Keith N Tampa (ex SoJax)]

Won't hurt it a bit.  Most likely a Washingtonia robusta.  They're downright hard to kill in CA.  

[redbeard917]

I wouldn't, because the holes will never heal, but might as well leave it now. They're small holes, I'm sure, anyway. Something like a hose clamp could be better next time, but will of course be slightly less of a clean look.

[Kris]

3 minutes ago, redbeard917 said:

I wouldn't, because the holes will never heal, but might as well leave it now. They're small holes, I'm sure, anyway. Something like a hose clamp could be better next time, but will of course be slightly less of a clean look.

Even I feel the same way...