How to Grow a Pygmy Date Palm in Full Sun in Arizona

Although pygmy date palms (Phoenix roebelenii) in Arizona are a long way from their native rainforests and riverbanks in Asia, they do surprisingly well in the desert environment, given the proper care. The pygmy date palm thrives below the 4,000 foot level in the state, but because of the many microclimates, grow the palm in a container that can be moved to shelter in the winter. If you live in Phoenix or southeastern Arizona, you have the highest chance of success with the pygmy date palm.

Planting pot
Potting mix
12-4-12 fertilizer
Measuring spoons

Instructions

- 1
  Place the potted pygmy date palm in full sun in an area that is protected from the wind. Use a deep pot with drainage holes, filled with a fast-draining potting mix.
- 2
  Water the pygmy date palm when the surface of the soil is dry. Water it slowly to ensure the roots are evenly moist. Because you are growing it in full sun, pay close attention to the moisture of the soil during the heat of Arizona’s summers.
- 3
  Water the pygmy date palm before applying 2 teaspoons of 12-4-12 fertilizer to the soil in a 1 gallon pot. Sprinkle the fertilizer at least 2 inches from the palm’s main stem and avoid getting the granules on the fronds or trunk. Water the palm again after the application. Use 1 tablespoon of fertilizer for a 2 gallon pot, 2 tablespoons for a 3 gallon pot, 3 tablespoons for a 5 gallon pot and 5 tablespoons for a 10 gallon container. Reapply the fertilizer, at the same rate, every month from March until November.
- 4
  Move the pygmy date palm to a sheltered spot when temperatures dip to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. This is especially important in Flagstaff, Prescott, Fredonia and other cities above 4,000 feet.

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