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Kentia Palm or Howea forsteriana

Kentia Palm

If you’re looking to add a touch of tropical elegance to your home or garden, look no further than Kentia Palms. These beautiful, low-maintenance palms are perfect for bringing that relaxed, coastal feel to any space. At True Green Nursery, we’re passionate about plants, and our Kentia Palms are grown with the care and expertise that make us Victoria’s best tropical nursery. Let’s dive into some common questions and tips on how to keep your Kentia Palm thriving!

How Tall Do Kentia Palms Grow?

Kentia Palms are known for their slow growth and graceful appearance. Outdoors, they can reach up to 8-10m  tall, creating a stunning, tropical backdrop.

Indoors, they stay more manageable, usually maxing out at around 2-3m, making them the perfect statement plant for your living room, office, or shaded outdoor area.

What’s the Best Plant Food for Kentia Palms?

Feeding your Kentia Palm the right food is key to keeping those fronds lush and green. A slow-release palm fertiliser with a good mix of nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and essential trace elements like magnesium and iron works best. Our top picks are Palm Focus and Osmocote for Palms—both are available at True Green Nursery, along with advice on how to get the best results!

When Should I Feed My Kentia Palm?

Timing matters when it comes to feeding. The best time to fertilise your Kentia Palm is during the growing season—think spring to early autumn. Feed your palm every 6-8 weeks during this time to support healthy growth. In winter, when the plant isn’t actively growing, you can ease off the feeding to avoid over-fertilisation.

Why Are My Kentia Palm’s Leaves Turning Brown?

Browning leaves can be frustrating, but it’s usually your palm’s way of telling you something’s not quite right. Here are the most common culprits:

  • Underwatering: Kentia Palms like their soil to be consistently moist but never soggy. If you’re seeing brown tips, you might need to up your watering game.
  • Overwatering: On the flip side, too much water can cause root rot, leading to browning leaves. Make sure your pot has good drainage.
  • Low Humidity: Indoor air, especially in winter, can be quite dry. This lack of humidity often leads to crispy leaf tips.
  • Nutrient Deficiency: If your palm isn’t getting enough of the right nutrients, particularly magnesium and potassium, you might see browning.

How Do I Revive a Struggling Kentia Palm?

If your Kentia Palm isn’t looking its best, don’t panic—there are a few easy steps you can take to revive it:

  1. Adjust Watering: Check the soil moisture regularly. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry but ensure that any excess water can drain away.
  2. Boost Humidity: Use a mist spray on the leaves, place a humidifier nearby, or set the pot on a pebble tray filled with water to increase humidity around the plant.
  3. Feed Properly: Make sure your palm is getting the right nutrients by feeding it with a good quality palm fertiliser during the growing season.
  4. Trim Dead Fronds: Removing completely browned fronds not only improves the look of your plant but also allows it to focus on new growth.
  5. Check for Pests: Sometimes pests like spider mites can cause damage. Inspect your palm and treat any infestations promptly with a suitable insecticide.

Why Buy from True Green Nursery?

At True Green Nursery, we don’t just sell plants—we help you grow a beautiful, healthy garden. Our Kentia Palms are hand-picked for quality, and our team is always on hand to provide expert advice. Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover or just getting started, we’ve got you covered. Come visit us and see why we’re Victoria’s top choice for tropical plants!