Transplanted Cuban Royal Palms in Clay: Frizzling New Fronds, Watering Adjustment

5 large Cuban royals field-dug from muck, planted in dense clay 6–7 weeks ago. New shoots emerge but frizzle/brown in days. Bubblers 2×/day, 7 min. Overwatering in clay?

Yes. Clay + Daily Saturation = Suffocation

• Muck soil = loose, aerobic. Clay = tight, anaerobic when wet.
• Roots need oxygen. Constant saturation = root rot → frizzling spears.

Corrected Schedule

1. Water daily for 3 weeks post-plant (done).
2. Now: skip watering on rain days. Check soil 12″ deep—if moist, wait.
3. Target: deep soak 2×/week, not daily splash.
4. No fertilizer for 6+ months. Roots regenerating.

Reality

Field-dug royals take 6–12 months to "shake off" transplant stress. Frizzling is normal. Patience + correct moisture = survival.