Mesa Palms 801-903-3282
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have have questions that are not answered here, please reach out and contact us at (801) 903-3282
Where Do I Start?
Here are a few points to consider:
- Where would you like it to be placed
- What height do you prefer?
- Should it be thick or slender?
Once you have these details figured out, we recommend consulting with a landscaper or visiting the farm.
For any additional questions, please reach out to Spencer.
Can I DIY my Palm Tree?
Most palms weigh 200 lbs per ft, requiring machinery for lifting. We use a mini excavator for larger trees and a stand-on skid steer for smaller ones. You can rent equipment or hire a landscaper, and we recommend a landscaper, as we have a trusted list of professionals. Some landscapers may offer a more affordable option by installing without finish work.
Why are my Outer Fronds Browning and Drying Up?
Palm tree fronds brown and die every spring making room for new frond growth that shoots right out of the center of the heart of the palm. Brown fronds do NOT mean your palm is dying. Palm Trees take nutrients from their fronds until they turn brown and die. Fronds go dormant in the winter just like deciduous trees that lose their leaves in the Fall.
Trim dead fronds upwards with shears, a battery-powered saw for easy maintenance, or a professional in St. George. This allows new fronds to grow and form a beautiful canopy. As temperatures rise, palms will awaken from dormancy and flourish. While dead fronds don't indicate a dead tree, a green center shows it's alive. For optimal growth, apply 14-4-14 fertilizer around the base during the summer months.
How Much Water Do Palms Need?
When planted, palm trees experience "transplant shock," causing outer fronds to brown and die until they establish roots. For the week, water them with 3-4 x 5-gallon emitters for 20 minutes, at least three times a day Once established, reduce watering to every other day and decrease the amount over time. Yellow fronds may indicate a lack of water, so increase watering slightly, and consider a slow drip in a circular moat around the tree. Monitor your palms to ensure they receive adequate, but not excessive, water.
Skinned vs. Not Skinned
At Mesa Palms, we appreciate the natural look of "barked palm trees, but skinned palms offer a sleek appearance that many customers prefer, especially around pools or homes.
While the bark provides natural protection, skinned trees may turn gray and show inner bark splits as they age. Skinning is cosmetic and does not harm the tree; it simply reflects personal preference.
Typically, palm trees are skinned from the base up to about 3 feet before the fronds emerge.
Why a Palm Tree?
CA Fan Palms are the hardiest palm trees for Southern Utah's Agriculture Zone 8a-8b, surviving temperatures as low as 11°F for up to three days during winter cold snaps.
As part of the grass family, they have a compact root ball and are easy to transplant. They are drought-resistant and need minimal water once established.
Plus, they add beauty to St. George, the only place in Utah where they can thrive!
