Question
Hello Mr Creed,

I have a few questions regarding the living requirements of my latest roommate, a Bungalow Palm - a.k.a archontophoenix cunninghamiana.

I plan to have him in the corner of my room, there is adequate morning sunlight, as well as supplemental incandescent lighting in the evening.

I have read that misting is an important process to maintain the humidity demands of most palms, how often should I mist?

Regarding the watering, am I safe to assume that a weekly drenching followed by adequate draining will suffice?

Also, with the future in mind, he currently stands at 150cms tall. What are my options regarding pruning if he grows too large for my room?

If you would like to add anything else, I would much appreciate it. = )

Thank you very much for your time!

Regards,

Dante

Answer
Hi Dante,

Your Bangalow Palm will need more light if you want it to thrive. Indoor light is much less intense than outdoor light, so yours should be right in front of a sunny window. A corner with only morning sun will not be enough. Incandescent lights are of no value to plants as the light emitted is in the wrong portion of the light spectrum for plant growth.

Misting Palms is largely a waste of time. It may help keep them clean, but does nothing to raise humidity or deter spider mites unless you mist several times per hour.

Water thoroughly - until water runs through the drainage holes - and then do not water again until the top half-inch of soil feels dry.

Palms have a single growing tip. Once that tip is removed by pruning then the Palm will slowly die. That is why most Palm species are not good choices for indoor spaces that are limited in height.

The bottom line is that your Bangalow Palm is not a good choice for you. A Kentia Palm or Rhapis Palm are better options.

I have written an article on Palm care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Need more information? Visit my website at www.HorticulturalHelp.com
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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC