A newly planted or transplanted palm will require a substantial amount of time to establish itself in the landscape. In warmer climates, as in Florida or Hawaii, the establishment period may be as little as a year; in cooler areas, like coastal California, it may take up to two years.  

Palms grown at Rincon Gardens offer special adaptation to the coastal conditions within several areas of our state. Rincon-acclimated palms withstand the sometimes harsh coastal environments that effect the trees brought from the hotter, drier climates where many palms are grown in California.   

During the establishment period, the plant requires special care while the roots develop to the point where they have moved out of the original ball and into the surrounding soil and begin taking up nutrients. If palms are improperly planted or poorly cared for after planting, then problems with nutrient deficiencies can arise.   

Naturally, sandy soils are going to hold fewer nutrients than those with adequate clay or organic matter. Environmental factors, such as high rainfall and warm temperatures, will tend to exacerbate the problem. On the other hand, as noted earlier, heavy, poorly-drained soils with excessive irrigation of rainfall can contribute to root problems.   

Palms generally can be grown below the 4,000 foot level-in California. However, microclimate may make the difference between success and failure in a given location. Frost pockets, where nighttime cold air tends to collect, should be avoided especially for the tender species. As a tree approaches maturity, it withstands low temperatures with less injury. Shelter from strong winds can sometimes be provided by land forms such as hills, groups of trees or a building.