Windmill palms are popular for landscaping because of their tropical look and attractiveness. In addition, their stunning appearance and ability to thrive in warm climates make them a perfect addition to any home. But how fast do windmill palms grow?
On average, windmill palms grow about less than 8 inches annually. However, its growth rate might differ depending on its environment and other growing conditions. These palms take very minimal care and maintenance, thanks to their drought-tolerant nature. While they’re not the fastest-growing palm trees, they make up for their durability and long lifespan.
Windmill Palm Tree: Brief Description and Care Guide
Windmill Palms are known for their unique leaves in the shape of a fan. They bloom yellow flowers during the late spring and summer and are known to be one of the hardiest palm trees. They are native to Asia, and these palms are salt-tolerant and shade-tolerant.
The Windmill Palm is highly-adaptable to any type of soil, but it is more likely to thrive in moist and well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. It should be watered every few days if it is a newly-planted one, but established plants can be watered once to twice weekly.
They’re cold-hardy and often flourish in USDA zones 8-11.
To encourage growth, it is recommended to apply a slow-release fertilizer biannually. A 10-10-10 fertilizer or any product designed explicitly for Windmill Palms is ideal.
How Fast Do They Grow? Factors Affecting Their Growth Speed
Contrary to the belief that Windmill Palms are fast-growing, they grow slowly to moderately. They can grow to a little less than eight inches in height yearly. This is true when they are young, but they will eventually reach a point where they will grow more slowly. While the Windmill Palm is not the fastest-growing palm tree, its moderate growth rate is still impressive considering its size.
Several factors can affect the growth rate of a Windmill Palm, such as:
Soil Type
The type of soil in which the Windmill Palm is planted can affect its growth rate. Palms prefer well-drained soils that are high in organic matter. If the soil is too heavy or clay-like, it can stunt the growth of the palm.
Weather Conditions
The weather conditions in the area where the palm is growing can also affect its growth rate. For example, windmill palms situated in colder areas will grow more slowly than those in warmer areas.
Amount of Light it Receives
The amount of sunlight that the Windmill Palm receives can also affect its growth rate. Palms need at least six hours of sunlight every day to encourage growth. If the palm is not receiving enough light, it’ll still grow, albeit slowly.
How Tall Can They Get?
This type of palm tree can reach a height of 40 feet, although most only grow to be about 10 to 20 feet tall. This will all depend on the growing conditions and the environment, so it is important that these conditions are met to ensure that they will reach their full potential.
Windmill Palm Growth Rate: Final Thoughts
When certain conditions are met, these palm trees can reach their full potential a little faster, although they are naturally slow-growing trees. They can even grow up to 40 feet tall when planted in the right environment and given the right care.
These palm trees are simple to maintain and require minimal upkeep, making them a low-maintenance option for busy homeowners. With its impressive growth rate and striking appearance, the Windmill Palm is a great choice for anyone looking to add a tropical flair to their garden.