The Kentia (Howea) forsteriana, better known as the Kentia Palm, is an easy to care for plant known for its lush, elegant leaves. In this article, we provide you with practical tips for the care of this popular palm.
Origin
The Kentia Palm, also known as Howea forsteriana, originated from Lord Howe Island, a small island located in the Pacific Ocean between Australia and New Zealand. The plant grows wild in the forest and along the coast, which has allowed it to adapt well to both shady and sunny environments. In the nineteenth century, it became a popular indoor plant in the British Royal Household and thus its popularity grew in Europe and the United States.
Care
Location
The Kentia Palm is a plant that is flexible when it comes to light conditions. It can thrive in both shady and lighter environments, but direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves. The plant is best placed by a window facing west or east, and can possibly also stand by a north-facing window. The Kentia Palm indicates when it is not getting enough light. If growth stalls, the palm should be moved to a lighter location. Move it to a spot closer to the window. Yellow leaves, on the other hand, indicate too much light.
Watering
The Kentia Palm likes slightly moist soil, but it's important to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged. Excess water can cause root rot, which is harmful to the plant. Therefore, it is best to water the palm regularly in small amounts, and only water when the top centimetre of soil feels dry.
Spraying
To maintain the ideal humidity for the Kentia Palm, it's advisable to regularly spray the leaves with water. This not only helps to keep the leaves dust-free, but also mimics the moist environment of its natural habitat.
Temperature
Kentia Palms are tropical plants and therefore prefer a warm environment. They perform best at temperatures between 18 and 27 degrees Celsius. It's important to avoid exposing the plant to cold drafts or sudden temperature changes, as this can cause stress.
Pruning
Pruning is not absolutely necessary for the Kentia Palm, but it can contribute to maintaining a neat and tidy appearance. Simply remove brown or yellow leaves by cutting them close to the stem with a clean, sharp tool.
Nutrition
Feed your Kentia Palm during the growing season, which runs from spring to autumn, once a month with a fertiliser specifically for palms. In the winter, when growth slows down, you can stop feeding.
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