Cyphophoenix nucele requirements

[tim_brissy_13]

After a previous failed attempt at growing a Cyphophoenix nucele, I've ordered a variety of palms from Palms for Brisbane including this species.  I've read that they grow on limestone cliffs, so I'm thinking that I may have used a mix not suitable for this species last time.  I usually use a mix of premium potting mix, sphagnum moss and vermiculite, but this time I may need to raise the pH.  

Any tips regarding soil requirements or otherwise would be appreciated.

[Jeff Searle]

Yes, get rid of the sphagnum moss. Not only will it hold alot of unwanted water, but will probably lower the pH.

Jeff

[Ntheastpalms]

G'Day Tim

I have been told that when planting palms in the ground that like higher pH soil to use a little broken up cement mortar in the bottom of the hole when you plant the palm (this is if you have acidic soil).

The lime will gradually leech from the motar & in the process elevate the pH.

If you are going to leave the plant in a pot for a while I would incorporate some horticultural charcoal in the potting mix, this also helps to slightly elevate the pH & keep the mix well drained.

Cheers

Matt.

[Daryl]

another way to change the ph is to add dolomite granules, but...

My C.nucele is growing well in natural soil with no  change....

[palmtreesforpleasure]

My C.nucele's grow in differents sections of the garden, on ph nuetral soil without any problems

regards

colin

[el-blanco]

I have one here in So. Cal that has not missed a a beat in 5 years.  Was a small 5 gallon and is not boxed size.  It is, of course, in the ground.  I am not sure if I have ever fertilized it or fussed over the Ph level of the soil.  I just used good 50/50 mix I brought in.

I will try to get a pic of it later.

Jeff