Palms grow from the inside out. At the center of palm trees you will see a pointed spike which is called the growth spike. The growth spike is the newest frond. Eventually, this will open to become the highest/tallest leaf on the tree. The lowest leaf on the tree is the oldest. It is natural to see this leaf turn yellow and brown when you first receive the tree in the spring. This is called shock (see next paragraph for details on SHOCK). Before shipment, a cycle slow release fertlizer is applied to all trees. The most important thing to remeber when caring for palm trees is water, water, water. These container palms are grown under a drip system which supplies 2 to 10 gallons of water per day. The trees will adjust to a different watering regiment as long as they are getting the water they need to survive and flourish.
Palms and tropical plants will most likely go through a period of shock once transported to our area. This is a natural event that happens when the palm is introduced to a climate that is different from south Florida. These palms have been raised/grown in temperatures that average 78 degrees and rarely dips below 60 degrees. In May, the Mid-Atlantic region averages around 60 degrees but can experience temperatures, especially at night, down into the 40s. You will know your palm tree is in shock when you see the bottom fronds turn yellow and then brown. These fronds are the oldest and most susceptible to shock. DO NOT CUT THESE OFF!!! Let the frond completely die. As this is happening, the tree is adapting to the environment. The shock will slow and/or stop by mid June. At that time, newer and more cold tolerant fronds will form at the center of the head (growth spike) and begin filling in to complete a beautiful natural look. All palms are fertilized before shipment to lessen the effects of shock. REMEMBER FROST CAN KILL TROPICAL PALMS AND PLANTS. So if the weather is calling for an unseasonable 'cold snap' and/or frost, be sure to protect your palm from the harsh effects. Smaller palms can be protected from the cold and frost by covering them with a box or blanket. For larger palms, you should protect the trunk by wrapping it with burlap or blankets.
When hibiscus are in their blooming stage, they require large amounts of water. Your hibiscus will need daily watering in warm weather. But once the weather cools, your hibiscus needs far less water, and too much water can kill it. In the winter, water your hibiscus only when the soil is dry to the touch. A growing hibiscus plant needs lots of nutrients in order to bloom well. In the summer, use a high potassium fertilizer. You can either use a diluted liquid fertilizer one a week, a slow release fertilizer once a month, or you can add a high potassium compost to the soil. In the winter, you don’t need to fertilize at all.
Products can be picked up in New Market, MD or delivered and/or installed at your place of business or residence.