Ask the Expert: Spindle palms in trouble what to do?

We had an cold snap and the temp dropped into the 20’s.  My outdoor, potted spindle palms now are turning brown but the trunk still looks alive.  What can I do, if anything to save them?  I have 5 total. Terri

Plant Expert Reply:

Spindle palm (Hyophorbe verschaffeltii) a zone 10b-11 plant which means they can do not like temperatures under 35degrees.  For very short periods of time they can tolerate temperatures lower than 35degrees.  Since, I don’t know where you live, I am going to give two answer – one that address those who live in zone 10b-11 and another for those who don’t.

Zone 10b-11 – this is probably not the normal temperature for your area and should not occur again.  Leave the plant alone. It will go into shock but should recover.  If the temperature is going to drop again below the 35degree threshold, cover the plant with a cloth made of natural fiber (not plastic) until the temperature rises.

Other zones – Move the plants to a warmer location.  The temperatures will continue to dip below the 35 degree theshold.  You can move them to a garage or out-building that will stay above 35degrees.  It would be best to find one that has windows, this will give the plants the light source they will need.  The plants will go through shock, so watch your watering. They will not use much water during this time – be sure not to over-water them.

Basically it is a wait and see game now.  Usually a light exposure to cold temperatures will destroy the leaves, but the main plant will survive.

Good luck and keep me posted.

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