How To Grow and Care for Cabbage Palm (Sabal palmetto)

Last Updated on June 26, 2023 by Kimberly Crawford

Cabbage palms, also known as Cordyline australis and Sabal palmetto, are versatile and hardy trees native to various regions, including New Zealand and the southeastern United States.

With their striking appearance, featuring long, slender leaves and a tall, sturdy trunk, cabbage palms have become a popular choice for landscaping, adding beauty and character to gardens, parks, and streetscapes.

These palms are not only admired for their aesthetic appeal but also for their resilience, adaptability, and low-maintenance requirements. As native plants, they play a vital role in supporting local ecosystems by providing food and shelter for various wildlife species.

In this article, we will explore the essential aspects of cabbage palm care, ensuring that these unique trees continue to thrive and enhance our surroundings.

Quick Guide

Identifying Cabbage Palms

Characteristics of Cabbage Palms

Cabbage palms are known for their unique appearance, which sets them apart from other palm species. Some common characteristics of cabbage palms include:

1. Long, slender leaves: Cabbage palms have long, arching leaves that can grow up to several feet in length. The leaves are typically green or blue-green and may have a slightly glaucous appearance.
2. Tall, sturdy trunk: The trunk of a cabbage palm is usually thick and robust, with a somewhat rough texture due to the remnants of old leaf bases.
3. Crown of fronds: At the top of the trunk, cabbage palms display a dense crown of fronds, which gives the tree its distinctive “cabbage” appearance.
4. White flowers: In summer, cabbage palms produce small, fragrant white flowers on branched inflorescences, followed by berry-like fruit.

Difference between Cordyline australis and Sabal palmetto

While both are referred to as cabbage palms, Cordyline australis and Sabal palmetto are two distinct species with subtle differences in appearance and growth habits.

• Cordyline australis, also known as New Zealand cabbage tree or ti kouka, is native to New Zealand and Australia. It has long, sword-like leaves that can be green, red, or bronze, often with red or purple tinges. The trunk is generally slender and may branch out as the tree ages. Cordyline australis can reach up to 20-30 feet in height.
• Sabal palmetto, commonly called the cabbage palmetto or sabal palm, is native to the southeastern United States, particularly Florida and South Carolina. Its fan-shaped leaves are blue-green with a more rigid structure than those of Cordyline australis. Sabal palmetto has a thicker, more robust trunk and can grow up to 65 feet tall.

Understanding the differences between these two species is essential for providing proper care and ensuring their healthy growth in your landscape.

Planting Cabbage Palms

Ideal Location and Soil Conditions

To ensure the healthy growth of cabbage palms, it’s essential to choose the right location and provide suitable soil conditions. Consider the following factors when selecting a planting site:

1. Sunlight: Cabbage palms typically prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ensure that the chosen location receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
2. Soil: Both Cordyline australis and Sabal palmetto can adapt to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, they thrive best in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Avoid planting in areas with consistently wet or waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot.
3. Space: Cabbage palms can grow quite tall and wide, so make sure to leave enough space for them to develop without obstruction. Allow for a minimum of 6-10 feet between trees, depending on the species and expected mature size.
4. Wind protection: While cabbage palms are relatively wind-tolerant, it’s still a good idea to choose a location with some protection from strong winds, particularly for young trees. This can help prevent leaf damage and reduce the risk of uprooting during storms.

Proper Planting Techniques

Follow these steps to plant your cabbage palm correctly:

1. Dig a hole: The hole should be about twice the width of the root ball and deep enough to accommodate the entire root system without bending or crowding the roots.
2. Prepare the soil: Amend the excavated soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve drainage and fertility. Mix the amendments thoroughly with the native soil.
3. Position the tree: Gently place the cabbage palm in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Take care not to plant the tree too deep, as this can cause the trunk to rot.
4. Backfill the hole: Fill the hole with the amended soil mixture, pressing it down firmly around the root ball to eliminate air pockets and provide support for the tree.
5. Water thoroughly: After planting, water the cabbage palm generously to help settle the soil and establish good contact between the roots and the surrounding earth.
6. Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips or shredded leaves, around the base of the tree to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and pest issues.

Watering and Fertilization

Water Requirements for Cabbage Palms

Cabbage palms are relatively drought-tolerant once established, but they still require consistent watering to maintain their health, especially during the initial stages of growth. Follow these guidelines for watering your cabbage palm:

1. Newly planted trees: For the first few months after planting, water your cabbage palm deeply and regularly, about 2-3 times per week, to help establish a strong root system. Adjust the frequency depending on weather conditions and soil type, ensuring that the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
2. Established trees: Once your cabbage palm is well-established (usually after 6-12 months), reduce watering frequency to about once per week during dry periods. In areas with regular rainfall, supplemental watering may not be necessary.
3. Signs of overwatering or underwatering: Monitor your cabbage palm for signs of overwatering (yellowing leaves, soft trunk) or underwatering (wilting, brown leaf tips). Adjust your watering schedule accordingly to maintain optimal moisture levels.

Appropriate Fertilization Schedule and Products

Fertilization is essential for maintaining the health and vigor of your cabbage palm. Follow these guidelines for fertilizing your tree:

1. Fertilizer type: Use a slow-release, granular palm fertilizer specifically formulated for palms. These fertilizers typically contain a balanced ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), as well as essential micronutrients like magnesium, manganese, and iron.
2. Fertilization schedule: Fertilize your cabbage palm 3-4 times per year, starting in early spring and continuing through late summer or early fall. Avoid fertilizing during colder months, as the tree’s growth slows down and nutrient uptake is reduced.
3. Application method: Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually by sprinkling it evenly around the base of the tree, starting about a foot away from the trunk and extending to the edge of the canopy. Be sure to follow the recommended application rate based on the size and age of your palm.
4. Watering after fertilization: Water the fertilizer into the soil immediately after application to help release the nutrients and prevent runoff or leaching.

Pruning and Maintenance

When to Prune Cabbage Palms

Cabbage palms are relatively low-maintenance trees, but occasional pruning is necessary to maintain their appearance and health. The best time to prune cabbage palms is during late winter or early spring, before the onset of new growth.

This allows the tree to focus its energy on producing fresh, healthy fronds in the upcoming growing season. However, if you need to remove damaged or diseased fronds, it’s acceptable to do so at any time of the year.

How to Properly Trim Fronds and Remove Dead Leaves

Follow these steps to prune your cabbage palm correctly:

1. Safety first: Before you begin, ensure that you are wearing appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection. If you need to use a ladder or other equipment to reach the fronds, make sure it is stable and secure.
2. Assess the tree: Examine your cabbage palm to determine which fronds need to be removed. Focus on dead, damaged, or diseased fronds, as well as those that are growing downward and obstructing walkways or structures.
3. Use proper tools: Use sharp, clean pruning tools, such as loppers or a pruning saw, to make clean, precise cuts. This helps prevent damage to the tree and reduces the risk of infection.
4. Cut at the right angle: When removing fronds, make your cut close to the trunk but avoid cutting into the trunk itself, as this can cause injury to the tree and leave it vulnerable to pests and diseases. Cut at an angle that slopes away from the trunk to prevent water from collecting on the cut surface.
5. Dispose of debris: After pruning, promptly remove and dispose of all cut fronds and leaves to minimize the risk of spreading diseases or attracting pests.
6. Avoid over-pruning: Be cautious not to remove too many fronds at once, as this can stress the tree and hinder its ability to produce food through photosynthesis. A good rule of thumb is to only remove fronds that are growing below a horizontal plane, leaving the healthy, upward-growing fronds intact.

Common Pests and Diseases

Identifying and Treating Common Pests

Cabbage palms can occasionally be affected by various pests, which can cause damage to their leaves, trunk, and overall health. Some common pests that affect cabbage palms include:

1. Scale insects: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Treat scale infestations by applying horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Palm weevils: These beetles bore into the trunk of the palm, causing damage and potentially killing the tree. If you suspect a palm weevil infestation, consult a professional arborist or pest control expert for appropriate treatment options.
3. Mealybugs: These tiny insects feed on plant sap and can cause leaf discoloration and stunted growth. Control mealybugs by applying insecticidal soap or a systemic insecticide, as directed by the product label.
4. Spider mites: These minute pests can cause yellowing and speckling of the leaves. Treat spider mite infestations with miticides or horticultural oil, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Regularly inspect your cabbage palm for signs of pest activity and treat any infestations promptly to minimize damage and maintain the health of your tree.

Preventing and Managing Diseases That Affect Cabbage Palms

Cabbage palms can also be susceptible to various diseases, which can impact their growth and appearance. Some common diseases that affect cabbage palms and how to manage them include:

1. Ganoderma butt rot: This fungal disease causes the decay of the lower trunk and can eventually kill the tree. There is no effective treatment for Ganoderma butt rot, so prevention is crucial. Maintain proper watering and fertilization practices, avoid damaging the trunk, and promptly remove and dispose of any infected trees to prevent the spread of the fungus.
2. Lethal bronzing disease: This fatal palm disease is caused by a phytoplasma and is spread by sap-sucking insects like leafhoppers. Symptoms include premature fruit drop, browning of the leaves, and eventual death of the tree. There is no cure for lethal bronzing disease; infected trees should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread. Prevent infection by controlling insect populations and maintaining the overall health of your palm.
3. Leaf spot diseases: Various fungi can cause leaf spots on cabbage palms, leading to discolored and unsightly foliage. To manage leaf spot diseases, prune away affected fronds, improve air circulation around the tree, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
4. Root rot: Overwatering and poor drainage can lead to root rot in cabbage palms, causing wilting, yellowing leaves, and potential death of the tree. Prevent root rot by planting in well-draining soil and following appropriate watering practices.

Cold Weather Protection

Tips for Protecting Cabbage Palms During Winter

While cabbage palms are relatively cold-hardy, they can still be susceptible to frost and freeze damage in colder climates or during unusually cold spells. Here are some tips for protecting your cabbage palms during winter:

1. Choose the right species: If you live in a region with cold winters, select a cold-tolerant variety of cabbage palm, such as Sabal palmetto, which can withstand temperatures down to 15°F (-9°C).
2. Plant in a sheltered location: Plant your cabbage palm in an area protected from harsh winds and frost pockets, such as near a building or a wall, which can provide some insulation against temperature fluctuations.
3. Water before a freeze: Watering the soil around your cabbage palm before a predicted freeze can help insulate the roots and prevent frost damage. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
4. Mulch the base: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw, bark chips, or leaves, around the base of your palm to help insulate the roots and maintain consistent soil temperatures.
5. Wrap the trunk and fronds: In areas with extreme cold or prolonged freezes, consider wrapping the trunk and crown of your cabbage palm with frost cloth, burlap, or even old blankets to protect them from cold damage. Be sure to remove the wrapping once temperatures rise to prevent moisture buildup and overheating.

Signs of Cold Damage and Recovery Steps

Cold damage can manifest in various ways, including:

1. Discolored or wilted fronds: Frost-damaged fronds may turn brown, black, or gray and appear wilted or desiccated.
2. Soft or discolored trunk: The trunk of a cold-damaged cabbage palm may become soft, discolored, or show signs of rot.

To help your cabbage palm recover from cold damage, follow these steps:

1. Wait and observe: Before taking any action, wait until the threat of frost has passed and give your cabbage palm time to recover on its own. Some palms may show signs of new growth within a few weeks or months.
2. Prune damaged fronds: Once you’re confident that the risk of frost is over, carefully prune away any damaged fronds to encourage new growth and prevent the spread of diseases or pests.
3. Provide proper care: Continue to water, fertilize, and care for your cabbage palm as usual, ensuring that it has the necessary nutrients and moisture to support its recovery.
4. Seek professional help: If your cabbage palm shows signs of severe cold damage or fails to recover, consult a professional arborist or horticulturist for advice on further steps or possible removal.

Repotting and Propagation

When and How to Repot Cabbage Palms

Cabbage palms grown in containers may need repotting as they outgrow their current pots. Here are some guidelines for when and how to repot your cabbage palm:

1. Time to repot: The best time to repot a cabbage palm is during late winter or early spring, just before the onset of new growth. This gives the tree ample time to adjust to its new environment and establish a strong root system.
2. Choose a larger container: Select a new pot that is at least 1-2 sizes larger than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging.
3. Prepare the new pot: Add a layer of well-draining potting mix to the bottom of the new pot. You can use a mix specifically designed for palms or create your own by combining equal parts peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand.
4. Remove the palm from the old pot: Gently remove the cabbage palm from its current container, being careful not to damage the roots. If the root ball is tightly bound, loosen it slightly to encourage new root growth.
5. Place the palm in the new pot: Position the cabbage palm in the center of the new pot, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Fill in the remaining space with the potting mix, pressing it down firmly to eliminate air pockets and provide support for the tree.
6. Water thoroughly: After repotting, water your cabbage palm generously to help settle the soil and establish good contact between the roots and the surrounding earth.
7. Resume regular care: Continue to water, fertilize, and care for your cabbage palm as usual, allowing it to adjust to its new pot and grow steadily.

Propagating Cabbage Palms from Seeds

Cabbage palms can be propagated from seeds, although the process can be somewhat slow and unpredictable. Here are some steps to propagate cabbage palms from seeds:

1. Source fresh seeds: Collect ripe seeds from an existing cabbage palm or purchase them from a reputable nursery. Fresh seeds have a higher germination rate than older seeds.
2. Clean the seeds: Remove any remaining fruit pulp from the seeds by soaking them in water and rubbing off the pulp with your fingers. Rinse the seeds thoroughly.
3. Soak the seeds: Soak the cleaned seeds in lukewarm water for 24-48 hours to help soften the seed coat and encourage germination.
4. Prepare the growing medium: Fill a seed tray or small pots with a well-draining, sterile seed-starting mix, such as a mixture of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand.
5. Sow the seeds: Place the soaked seeds on the surface of the growing medium, spacing them evenly to allow for proper root development. Press the seeds gently into the mix, but do not bury them completely, as they need light to germinate.
6. Maintain proper conditions: Cover the seed tray or pots with a clear plastic lid or wrap to maintain humidity and warmth. Place them in a warm location with indirect sunlight, maintaining a consistent temperature of around 75-85°F (24-29°C).
7. Water regularly: Keep the growing medium consistently moist but not waterlogged, using a spray bottle or gentle watering method to avoid disturbing the seeds.
8. Germination and care: Cabbage palm seeds can take anywhere from 1-6 months to germinate, so be patient. Once the seedlings emerge and develop their first set of true leaves, remove the plastic cover and continue to care for them, providing adequate water, light, and nutrients.
9. Transplanting: When the seedlings have grown several inches tall and developed a robust root system, they can be carefully transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.

Conclusion

In summary, here are the key points for successful cabbage palm care:

1. Planting: Choose a location with full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, and ample space for your cabbage palm to grow.
2. Watering and Fertilization: Provide consistent watering for newly planted trees and established palms during dry periods. Fertilize with a slow-release, granular palm fertilizer 3-4 times per year.
3. Pruning and Maintenance: Prune your cabbage palm during late winter or early spring, removing only dead, damaged, or downward-growing fronds.
4. Cold Weather Protection: Select cold-tolerant varieties for colder regions, plant in sheltered locations, and provide additional protection during frost or freeze events.
5. Pest and Disease Management: Regularly inspect your cabbage palm for signs of pests or diseases, and address any issues promptly to maintain the health of your tree.
6. Repotting and Propagation: Repot container-grown cabbage palms as needed, and propagate new trees from seeds following proper germination and seedling care steps.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty and low-maintenance benefits of cabbage palms in your landscape. These striking trees add a touch of the tropics to your garden, and with proper care, they’ll thrive for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cabbage Palm Trees