SEED GERMINATION

For best results soak the seed in water for 24 hours before planting. Seeds are best planted horizontally in a well drained sandy medium, 150mm - 255mm (6" - 9") deep. Cover seed with no more than 6mm (1/4") of sandy medium, keep moist but not over wet. Cover seedbed with black plastic to maximise heat and humidity.

With optimum conditions of temperature (32 degrees celcius), moisture and humidity, you can expect the seed to put down a root within three weeks before a spike becomes evident above the soil.

Higher germination results will be achieved in shorter timespans if the night time temperatures are kept closer to the day time temperatures. This can be achieved by using a hot house and / or a heating mat..

The first leaf remains as a spear or spike for 1-2 months before opening into a V shape, and then 2 leaves.

Seedlings can be transplanted successfully, but deep digging is necessary to avoid damage to the deep root system.

Deep pots / liners are best for seedlings. Protect the seedling throughout the first year with 50% shade.

FAST GROWTH

When transplanting from the seed bed to the pot, best results have been obtained by using a potting mix comprising 15% course sand and 85% crushed bark.

As the Foxtail responds well to heavy fertilizer usage, adding 2kgs (4.4lbs) of dolomite (Ca,Mg) and 5kgs (11lbs) of 15N, 10P, 14K fertilizer mix per cubic metre (cubic yard) will give your seedling a very good start.

Add regular applications of a high NPK mix during warm growth periods for optimum results. Regular watering is necessary.

Ensure an even distribution of water when watering the seed bed, particularly when seeds are planted directly into pots or liners. Uneven watering can result in only part of the seed being dampened, resulting in poor germination.

FROSTS

Although the Foxtail Palm can withstand quite heavy frosts, it is recommended not to expose the palm to below freezing temperature until it has 1 metre (3 feet) of trunk lenth.

There have been many plants less than 3 foot in total height recover from quite heavy frosts in Florida, where Majestic palms and Golden canes in the adjacent rows were completely wiped out.

GROWING

Make sure all dead leaves are removed from the trunk. This will prevent any stem or root rot. Ensure the plants have enough room between the pots for air to circulate and keep the trunk dry.

Plants need to be regularly fertilized and watered. When plants are small, spray regularly with a general fungacide.

Once the plants have reached 1 metre (3ft), they will grow much faster in the ground than in a pot.