You don't have to be living in Seattle, Washington to enjoy the beauty of a tall palm tree. This iconic tree has graced many a city's landscape since it first became a tree around 300 years ago. It makes a perfect addition to any urban landscape whether planted in an urban setting or back yard. The character of this evergreen is one of grace and elegance that cannot be imitated by any other tree. Its easy maintenance and durability makes it a great choice for a treasured cityscape.
The first step to properly maintaining a palm tree in Seattle is to determine the size and type of palm tree you will need to establish. Do not wait until the bare branches and twigs start to appear in your landscape until you are ready to take action. While they are often welcome additions to a landscape, too many bare branches can overwhelm a city's character. This is why it is a good idea to consult with a local expert and to determine the right design and type of palm tree to plant before you begin digging. That way you will not be surprised by the sudden appearance of bare branches where you least expect them.
Before you dig, consider what you will need to do once you have the tree established. One of the best ways to help maintain a palm tree is to provide it with regular watering. Over time, these trees become familiar with the moisture level in the soil and do not need to be watered as often as other trees. If the tree is established in a relatively dry soil, it is important to supplement it with water regularly. A simple solution to this problem is to build a water tower so that you can provide your palm tree with water on a regular basis.
It is a good idea to plant your palm tree in the spring when the temperature is warm. Native palms will thrive in temperatures between ninety five degrees Fahrenheit, so they will be perfect for Seattle landscaping. Planting it later in the year will likely result in a disease or insect infestation and possibly the death of your palm tree. Choose a site with a warmer temperature for your tree, but do not choose areas of direct sunlight, which are often shady during the winter months.
It is important to keep your palm tree healthy, so it will take a bit of work to care for it once it has been established. It should be watered regularly, especially if it is an established tree, and it should be protected from harsh weather. Do not try to force the tree into shade, as it may resist, or you could chip the bark and cause more problems.
The Seattle area offers a great selection of native palms. Some of the palm varieties have beautiful flowers and foliage, so you will want to make sure you get the one that best compliments your landscape. You can easily search out information about the species you are interested in, including planting time, climate and more. Once you have decided on a palm tree for your yard, you can begin preparing the soil and preparing the tree for planting.