The Message Board

RE: Transplanting a Bismark Palm

Posted 143 days ago

I have never had to transplant a palm but I read up a bit on doing this to a Bismark Palm and it sounds as though it a touchy sort of thing to do.

Apparently they don't particularly like root disturbance and their trunk continues some way undergroung too.

Try to get some further information before you try doing the move. Your local nursery might be able to give you some helpful advice.

RE: Transplanting a Bismark Palm

Posted 139 days ago

Moving it isn't really recommended but at 8' tall it's still relatively young. If you really have to move it it would be best done in warm weather and you should cut off most of the leaf except for that which is only partly opened, but leave the stalk. Wrap some glad wrap around the top. If you can afford it get in a back hoe. If you ask a local garden centre or garden contractor they will probably be able to recommend somebody whose used to dealing with plants.

Before you dig it out make sure the hole it's going in is dug and that the soil that is going in is prepared. It should be the soil that's come out plus about 50% coarse sand to go around the root ball. You'll want to be able to water it well and yet have it free draining. Mix in some 9 month osmocote as well. Best not to use compost or manures at this stage.

If it's to be moved any distance make sure the root ball is well covered with wet hessian. Remember with any horticultural activity it's a percentage job. Every thing you do to make the move easier will increase your chance of success.

Good luck with that aye
_________