How to Grow Canary Island Date Palm - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team / 2024

Canary island date palm is a species of palm tree that is native to the Canary Islands. It is a large palm tree, growing up to 30 m tall with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 m. The leaves are pinnate, with up to 150 leaflets. The flowers are yellow, and the fruits are oval, black, and up to 5 cm long. The Canary Island date palm is a popular ornamental plant, and is widely cultivated in warm climates around the world.

How to Grow Canary Island Date Palm - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

Chocolate palms
Date palms
Medjool palms
Canary Island palms
Phoenix dactylifera

Common Knowledge

The canary island date palm is a species of palm tree that is native to the Canary Islands.
This palm tree can grow to a height of up to 20 meters (65 feet).
The leaves of the canary island date palm are large and develop in a spiraling pattern.
The leaves are dark green in color and can grow up to 5 meters (2 feet) in length.
The canary island date palm produces yellowish-orange fruits that are known as dates.
The fruits of the canary island date palm are edible and are often used in baking.
The canary island date palm is an important source of food for the people of the Canary Islands.
The canary island date palm is also grown as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world.
The canary island date palm is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests.
The canary island date palm is classified as a threatened species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Planting Process

For canary island date palm, first step is to find the suitable place or pot for planting.
The second step is to fill that place or pot with well-drained soil.
Next, take a canary island date palm seed and plant it in the soil.
Water the seed regularly.
When the seed germinates, thin out the weaker seedlings.
Transplant the stronger seedlings to individual pots when they are big enough.
water the seedlings regularly.
When the seedlings are big enough, transfer them to a sunny location.
water the seedlings regularly.
When the seedlings are big and strong enough, they can be planted in the ground.

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, the Canary Island Date Palm prefers deep, well-drained sandy loams with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It is intolerant of caliche, wet or poorly drained soils, and salt. It is also sensitive to changes in soil pH.

Light condition

Just like other date palms, the canary island date palm requires full sun to partial sun in order to thrive. If you live in an area with warm, sunny weather, then this palm is a great option for your landscape. However, if you live in an area with cooler weather, then you will need to provide this palm with extra sun exposure by planting it in a south-facing location.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is most ideal for the canary island date palm is warm weather with some humidity. This palm does not do well in cooler climates. Additionally, the canary island date palm needs full sun to partial sun in order to thrive.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%-70%. The canary island date palm does not tolerate low humidity for long periods of time. If the air is too dry, the leaves will begin to turn brown and drop off.

Fertilizing

For the fertilizer, this plant requires a mix of ¼ cup each of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium given every two weeks. The roots of the plant are subject to rotting, so make sure the drainage is good and that the plant isn't sitting in water.

Plant Pruning

Pruning a Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis) is important to maintain its health and promote new growth. This palm species is native to the Canary Islands and is a popular choice for landscaping in warm climates. When pruning, focus on removing any dead or damaged leaves and branches. It is also necessary to trim back any suckers that are growing from the base of the trunk.

About Propagating

Propagation for the canary island date palm is done through seeds. The seeds are sown in the spring in a well-drained seed-raising mix. The mix should be kept moist but not wet and the temperature should be around 21°C (70°F). It can take up to two months for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings have reached around 15cm (6in) tall they can be transplanted into individual pots and gradually acclimatised to outdoor conditions.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is between 2 and 5 feet per year. However,There are documented cases of much faster growth rates. One palm in Vista, California was reported to have grown 16 feet in a single year.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are yellowing or browning leaves, dry leaves, and leaves with spots or discoloration. These problems are typically caused by cultural issues, such as improper watering, fertilizer, or light. Sometimes, these problems can be caused by pests or diseases. If you suspect that your canary island date palm has a problem, take a sample of the affected leaves to your local Cooperative Extension office for diagnosis.

Growing Tips

Make sure to plant your canary island date palm in an area that receives full sun.
Provide well-draining soil for your palm to prevent root rot.
Palm trees need room to grow, so make sure to plant it in an area where it will have plenty of space.
Water your palm tree regularly, but make sure not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
fertilize your palm tree every few months to ensure optimal growth.
Prune your palm tree regularly to remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Protect your palm tree from strong winds and heavy rains.
Check for pests and diseases regularly and treat accordingly.
Harvest the fruit from your palm tree when it is ripe.
Enjoy the beauty of your canary island date palm!