Ponytail palms, also known as elephant foot, are not just cute indoor houseplants. Surprisingly, growing them outdoors is actually more common! By taking advantage of the full growth cycle throughout the year, you can make your ponytail palm thrive in an outdoor setting. So, without further ado, here are some tips to help your elephant foot plant reach new heights in the great outdoors.
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A massive stand of Beaucarnea recurvata outdoors. Source: Blumenbiene
When deciding whether to grow your ponytail palm indoors or outdoors, there are four major points to consider:
You're reading: How to Grow a Ponytail Palm Outdoors: Tips and Tricks
Size
If you want your ponytail palm to reach its maximum potential – it can grow up to 30 feet tall – then planting it outdoors is the way to go. However, if you prefer to limit its size, you can plant it in a container indoors. A larger container allows for growth up to 6 feet tall, while a smaller one will keep it more compact.
Light and Temperature
Can ponytail palms handle full sun? Absolutely! Outdoors, they thrive in full sun for at least 8 hours a day. Indoors, place your ponytail palm in a south-facing window and supplement with a grow light if necessary.
Water and Humidity
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One of the benefits of growing your ponytail palm outdoors is natural drainage. The soil will dry completely between waterings, avoiding the risk of root rot, which is one of the main killers of this plant. If you’re growing indoors, ensure you use a free-draining cactus-style soil mix and a pot with proper drainage. Remember, this plant has a large caudex for storing water, so it doesn’t need excessive watering.
Flowering
If you want to see flowers on your ponytail palm, it’s best to grow it outdoors. While these palm trees are slow-growing, with time, small white flowers will eventually bloom.
5 Tips to Grow Ponytail Palm Outdoors
The root system of a ponytail palm tree. Source: brewbooks
If you’re ready to embark on the journey of outdoor cultivation and care for your ponytail palm, here are some quick tips:
- Water it thoroughly: Allow the soil to dry between watering turns, especially during the peak of summer.
- Keep it in a bright and sunny area: Ponytail palms thrive in full sun, so make sure they have access to plenty of natural light.
- Fertilize it once a year: Use a 10-10-10 slow-release fertilizer in the spring to provide essential nutrients to your plant.
- Prevent pests and diseases: Apply neem oil or an insecticidal soap to the leaves to keep pests at bay.
- Prune the browning leaves: Regularly remove brown or yellow leaves to keep your ponytail palm looking fresh and healthy.
Materials Needed for Growing Ponytail Palm Outdoors
To successfully plant your ponytail palm outdoors, you may need the following tools and materials:
- Leaf rake
- Garden hose
- Mulch
- Balanced organic slow-release fertilizer
- Neem oil or an insecticidal soap
- Pruning shears
- Bleach
Proper Watering
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To ensure your ponytail palm stays hydrated, water it more frequently during the peak of summer when temperatures soar. Always wait for the soil to dry completely before watering again. When watering, use a high-quality garden hose to soak the ground around the caudex of your elephant’s foot tree. The shallow root system of ponytail palms means they don’t require deep watering.
Soil and Fertilizer
Surround the base of your ponytail palm with a layer of mulch, at least 1″ thick. However, keep the mulch 4-6″ away from the trunk to prevent moisture accumulation and the risk of rot. For optimal growth, use well-draining soil. Sandy and loamy soils are best for outdoor cultivation. You can modify regular potting soil by adding agricultural sand or rocks to improve drainage. Fertilize your palm once a year in spring using a slow-release fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10. Ensure the fertilizer is 6″ away from the base, and water the area thoroughly.
Outdoor Pests
Keep an eye out for pests on the foliage of your ponytail palm. If you spot any, blast them off with a strong jet of water from your hose. Aphids and spider mites are common pests that can damage the leaves by sucking the sap. If necessary, you can apply neem oil or insecticidal soap as a spot treatment to control these pests effectively.
Pruning an Outdoor Ponytail Palm Tree
If you want to shape your ponytail palm, prune any browning or yellowing leaves by cutting them 1/4″ above the stem joint. To prevent the spread of disease, use clean pruning shears and sterilize them by dipping them in a mix of 9 parts water and 1 part bleach before pruning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where do you put a ponytail palm outside?
Generally, you can grow a ponytail palm outdoors in USDA zones 9 through 12. For container gardening outdoors, choose a location with full sun and temperatures between 60°F and 90°F (16°C to 32°C).
Q: What is the lowest temperature a ponytail palm can tolerate?
While ponytail palms can tolerate short periods of cold temperatures as low as 15°F (-9°C), prolonged exposure to cold weather can cause damage. As a precaution, keep them indoors when temperatures consistently drop below 45°F (7°C).
Q: How do you care for a ponytail palm outside?
To care for your ponytail palm outdoors, give it plenty of sunlight, maintain warmer temperatures, and water it sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: What temperature should a ponytail palm be outside?
Ideally, keep your ponytail palm in temperatures between 60°F and 90°F (16°C to 32°C). If temperatures drop below 45°F (7°C), it’s advisable to move them into a protected area.
Q: Can a ponytail palm be left outside?
Yes, if you live in a warmer climate or during the appropriate season.
Q: Can a ponytail palm live outside in the winter?
Yes, a ponytail palm can survive outdoors in winter, depending on your location and the plant’s hardiness. Refer to the temperature guide above to determine whether it can grow in the ground or in a container.
Q: What happens if a ponytail palm gets too cold?
If exposed to extremely cold temperatures, a ponytail palm can suffer cold damage, leading to blackened leaf tips.
Q: Can ponytail palms get too much sun?
While ponytail palms require sunlight, excessive exposure can cause the leaves to burn. Be mindful of the sun’s intensity and adjust their location accordingly.
Now armed with these tips and tricks, you can confidently grow a stunning ponytail palm outdoors. Enjoy the beauty and vibrant growth of this incredible plant as it thrives in its natural habitat. Happy gardening!
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Category: Safe Plants
