Are the Azores right for coconuts?

[Shoowow]

Hello all. The question remains unanswered, but we're getting closer.

These two have been with me since last May, always outdoors, protected only from a couple of major wind and rain storms in December (brought indoors). They like the white washed south facing wall.

While the little guy on the right is struggling and possibly on its way out, the one on the left is doing well. The winter has actually been cooler than normal, but only slightly, with the Jan monthly average at 59. Feb looks about the same.

They are Dutch greenhouse specimens, so I had a tough task keeping them alive from the beginning. If either one makes it they are going on the ground in May.

I've attached a couple of other photos from the garden just because. Getting a few more tropical specimens soon.

I'll keep you updated on whether they make it or not and gladly welcome comments and observations.

 

[GottmitAlex]

The only real way to find out is to plant it.  The one on the right is on borrowed time. 

 

 

[bubba]

Great to see that you are giving it a shot! At 37° northern latitude, you would clearly hold the world wide record. I would suggest that you locate an area near one of those volcanoes, where are the soil temperature is extremely warm. I think you definitely have a great chance!

[kinzyjr]

Thank you for sharing this, @Shoowow.  Rooting for it to work.

[Cluster]

Hello João,

It is hard to say, the problem with the Azores does not seem to be the temperature itself, but the  amount of rainy days in winter and the not so great hours of sunshine during that period coupled with slightly cool temperatures combined, is not great for coconuts.

I believe near walls and pavement, protected from the wind, it might be possible, but If you you are unlucky with a very cool winter and rain, it might kill it even if already mature. Only time will tell, but please use a well draining soil, good luck man:)

 

Edited February 17 by Cluster

[Shoowow]

Hello Cluster,

You are absolutely correct. Luckily we have excellent soil drainage since most of the soil in this area is pumice below the top layer.

The healthier palm grew very well during the summer and became strong, almost staring a trunk. I had it in a partly shaded location because hot summer sun started burning their leaves immediately.

The other one grew slower.  Same location, same basic size. Just happened that way.

[Shoowow]

Hello Bubba, the hot volcanic soil is in limited locations usually at cooler higher altitudes. There are a couple of "hotspots" at lower altitudes, but they are heavily exposed to winds.
A wind protected area with good drainage at lower altitudes seems to be the best choice.

11 hours ago, bubba said:

Great to see that you are giving it a shot! At 37° northern latitude, you would clearly hold the world wide record. I would suggest that you locate an area near one of those volcanoes, where are the soil temperature is extremely warm. I think you definitely have a great chance!