Houseplant palm catechu
The houseplant areca catechu belongs to the palm family. Australia is considered its homeland; in its natural environment, the palm tree can be found on the island of New Guinea and the tropics of Asia. We grow it in a room, since the palm tree is not adapted to the harsh climate.
This variety of areca palm has one trunk, which reaches a height of 25 m. The diameter of the trunk is from 5 to 12 cm. The leaves of the plant are feathery, curved, dark green, densely arranged. The palm tree blooms with fragrant white inflorescences that emerge from the axils of the lower leaves. After flowering, a fruit with bright seeds is formed.
At home, the catechu does not bear fruit
For growing a palm tree in a room, a place near the east or west window is suitable. Areca does not tolerate direct sunlight, the leaves curl, their color is lost, and burns appear. The optimum air temperature for growth and development is about 35 ° C, fluctuations up to 21-27 ° C are possible. In winter, the plant can withstand a short-term drop in temperature to 0 ° C, but it cannot constantly exist in such conditions. If there is no heating in the room, the palm tree will die.
The palm tree grows well in conditions of high air humidity, does not tolerate drafts and excessive watering. To moisten the earthen coma, settled water is used, the excess is poured from the pallet.
A palm tree is grown in acidic or neutral loose soil, which allows water to pass through well and does not allow it to stagnate.
Tips for caring for a catech
In the period from spring to autumn, the palm tree needs regular watering and feeding. Fertilize a palm tree according to the scheme:
- the beginning of the growing season – 2 times a month;
- active growth – once a week;
- end of the growing season – once a month.
Soluble mineral complexes for palm trees or decorative leafy plants are used for feeding. Areca is not fed in winter. If the room has central heating, then it is enough just to irrigate the leaves. From dry air, pests appear on the palm tree.
Young plants are replanted each year as they grow. In the future, the transplant is done every 3-5 years. Palm trees aged 10 and older are not transplanted at all. It is enough to replace the topsoil with a more nutritious one every 2 years. Palm trees do not take root well in a new pot, therefore, during the adaptation period, they maintain high humidity in the air and soil.
Growing a decorative palm tree at home from a small seedling is very exciting. Follow all the tips to avoid mistakes and frustration.