Hi all, 

Just finished repotting a Christmas Palm that'd been sitting in a big ol' plastic pot since we moved in.

It'd been (essentially) living in fine sand, so we went ahead and prepared a mix (sourced from JungleMusic), but --  having read that palm's are particularly sensitive when it comes to their roots -- attempted to keep the (root-bound) ball as intact as possible.

Am very much a minnow around here, and seeing as how I've basically never done this sort of thing before... I'd hugely appreciate some feedback/advice re whether I'm "meant" to cover more of the flare.

[Not entirely sure what I can do about the relative "mossiness" of the sand-tangle between the thicker roots. And tampering with the thin surface roots (sort of buried at this point in the photo) seemed to contradict what I think I'd picked up re palm's and root sensitivity).

Also wondering how accurate the allocation of mulch I've put down is. I did try to adhere to a rough 3inch thick/high guideline (the "black" somewhat fibrous stuff's a layer of compost and the wood mulch is... bark mulch), but would be grateful for some advice re whether I've veered too close to the trunk (tried to stick to an overall 6" spacing, but have clearly winged it some).

Not that I wouldn't also welcome any input concerning the aesthetic merit of such mulch(ing)... but am, ultimately, such a feeble novice here that I'd take/appreciate any info I can get re the overall feasibility of compost+bark mulching. 

Firstly I think your Christmas palm will be very happy with the new soil. Most important thing is that the soils' drainage is optimal, especially if the palm encounters temperatures below those of its natural habitat. (cold and wet feet means trouble)

Secondly I would personally add some more topsoil so all the roots are covered. Allthough I don't think the palm is suffering from having some adventurous roots.

Thanks, I really appreciate the response and the advice.

Do feel  as though the sheer amount off... rootage... hanging around the surface could use some more topsoil, so am quite glad/relieved to hear/read that topping-up wouldn't be an ill-advised move.