Windmill Palm Tree Care: How To Grow Trachycarpus fortunei

Last Updated on June 25, 2023 by Kimberly Crawford

Looking for some help caring for your windmill palm? You’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know in order to keep your palm healthy and looking great.

From watering to fertilizing to pest control, we have you covered. So read on and learn how to properly care for your windmill palm!

Related: 34+ Types Of Palm Trees In Florida

Quick Care Guide

  • Common name: Windmill palm
  • Botanical name: Trachycarpus fortunei
  • Hardiness: 8a-11
  • Mature height: 20-40 ft. (mine is about 35 ft.)
  • Soil: Moist, well drained
  • Sun: Full sun to part shade
  • Water: Medium

Windmill palms are one of the most popular palm trees planted in the United States. They have a tropical look but are actually quite hardy and can withstand cold temperatures down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you live in an area that gets below freezing, it’s important to protect your windmill palm from the cold by wrapping it in burlap or placing it in a sheltered spot.

What does a windmill palm look like?

chinese windmill palm

The windmill palm is a type of palm tree that is native to the southeastern United States. The leaves of the windmill palm are long and narrow, and the trunk of the tree is slender and curved.

The flowers of the windmill palm are small and white, and they grow in clusters at the base of the leaves. The fruit of the windmill palm is a small, black drupe.

The windmill palm is a popular landscaping plant, and it is often used as an accent tree in gardens and parks. The windmill palm is also a popular houseplant, and it can be found in many homes across the United States.

Windmill Palm benefits

Windmill Palm trees are highly beneficial to the environment. They help to improve air quality by producing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide. They also help to reduce noise pollution and can act as a natural windbreak.

Windmill Palm trees are also excellent sources of food and shelter for wildlife. Birds and small animals often nest in the leaves, and the fruits are a favorite food of many animals.

Windmill Palm trees are also very beautiful, and their large leaves make them a popular choice for landscaping. They are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in both hot and cold climates.

Windmill Palm identification guide.

The windmill palm (Trachycarpus fortunei) is a popular landscaping palm in warm temperate and subtropical climates. It is easy to identify by its unique fan-shaped leaves that rotate around a central point like the blades of a windmill.

The leaves are dark green with white or silver undersides, and the trunk is covered in a brown, fibrous material.

Windmill Palm height.

The average windmill palm tree height is between 20 and 30 feet. however, they can grow as tall as 50 feet. The leaves of the windmill palm are palmate, meaning that they have a central petiole from which numerous leaflets emerge. These leaves can be up to three feet long and two feet wide.

Windmill Palm fruit.

This is what the fruit of a Windmill Palm looks like. It is small, round, and has a hard outer shell. The inside of the fruit is filled with a white, fleshy substance that contains seeds. The fruit is often used in landscaping because it is very drought tolerant.

Windmill Palm leaves.

The Windmill Palm gets its name from its large, fan-shaped leaves that resemble a windmill. The leaves are green on top and silver-green on the bottom. The leaf margins are serrated. Windmill palms can grow up to 20 feet tall.

Planting windmill palm trees.

We’re excited to share our latest project with you all – planting windmill palm trees! These beautiful palms are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they also have many benefits for the environment.

Windmill palms are known to be one of the most efficient types of trees at filtering out carbon dioxide and other pollutants from the air. They also help to regulate temperature and humidity levels, making them perfect for hot, arid climates.

Windmill palm cold hardiness.

The windmill palm is native to southwestern China, growing in the mountains at elevations of 1000 to 3000 meters. It is one of the most cold-hardy palms, tolerating temperatures as low as -12°C (or about 0°F).

Windmill palm growth rate.

The average windmill palm grows about 24 inches per year. If you live in an area with a lot of wind, your tree may grow faster. If you live in an area with little to no wind, your tree’s growth may be slower.

When planting your tree, make sure to give it plenty of room to grow. If you plant it too close to your house or another structure, it may not have enough room to grow and could cause damage.

When to plant a windmill palm?

The best time to plant this tree is in late spring or early summer. If you live in an area with a hot climate, then it’s best to wait until the temperatures start to cool down before planting.

You’ll also want to make sure that the soil is moist but not soggy, as windmill palms don’t do well in waterlogged conditions.

Once you’ve found the perfect spot, dig a hole that’s twice as wide as the tree’s root ball and just as deep. Gently loosen the roots before placing the tree in the hole and backfilling with soil.

Where to plant a windmill palm?

When it comes to selecting a location for your windmill palm, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, these palms prefer full sun or partial shade.

They also need well-drained soil that’s rich in organic matter. If you live in an area with hot summers, then it’s best to plant your palm in a spot that gets some afternoon shade.

How to plant a windmill palm?

Windmill Palm outdoor

The windmill palm is a beautiful, unique palm that can add a touch of elegance to any home. Though it’s not the easiest tree to grow, with a little care and attention it can thrive in most climates. If you’re thinking of planting a windmill palm, here are a few tips to get you started.

First, you’ll need to find a location that gets plenty of sunlight. The palm prefers full sun, but it will also do well in partial shade. Once you’ve found the perfect spot, dig a hole that’s twice the size of the tree’s root ball.

Next, mix some compost or peat moss into the native soil to help the tree retain moisture. Once the hole is filled, gently remove the tree from its pot and place it in the center of the hole.

Backfill the hole with soil, being careful not to bury the trunk of the tree. Water thoroughly and mulch around the base of the tree to help keep roots cool and moist. With a little patience and care, your windmill palm will soon be thriving.

How deep to plant a windmill palm?

The best depth to plant a windmill palm is approximately two-thirds of the height of the tree. This will allow the roots to establish themselves properly before the top growth gets too large. Be sure to backfill the hole with soil and water well after planting.

How far apart should you plant windmill palm?

You should plant windmill palm at least 15 feet away from your house and any other structures. You also need to make sure that the location you choose has full sun and well-drained soil. Once you have found the perfect spot, dig a hole that is twice the width of the tree’s root ball.

After you have placed the tree in the hole, you need to fill the hole with soil and water it thoroughly. You should also mulch around the base of the tree to help keep the roots moist. Finally, give your new windmill palm a slow but deep watering once a week for the first year.

How much space do you need for a windmill palm?

You’ll need at least a 15 gallon pot that is 18 inches wide. The palm will do best in full sun but can tolerate some shade. It’s important to plant your windmill palm in well-draining soil. Mix in some sand or perlite to help with drainage if needed.

How to grow windmill palm from seed?

Growing windmill palms from seed is relatively easy, and they make an excellent addition to any landscape.

To grow windmill palm from seed, start by soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours.

This will help to soften the hard outer shell and promote germination.

After soaking, plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and place them in a warm, sunny location.

Water regularly, and keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Germination can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

Once the seedlings have reached a few inches in height, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.

How To Grow windmill palm Indoors.

Growing windmill palm indoors is not difficult, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips on how to grow windmill palm indoors:

-Windmill palms need bright light, so choose a sunny spot for your plant.

-Water your palm regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not soggy.

-Fertilize your palm every month during the growing season.

-Be sure to repot your palm every two or three years to give it fresh soil and room to grow.

How To Grow windmill palm Outdoors.

Windmill palms are one of the most popular palms for landscaping in warm climates, and they’re also well-suited for growing in containers.

If you live in an area where winters are cold, you can still enjoy this palm by growing it in a pot that can be brought indoors when temperatures drop. Here’s what you need to know about growing windmill palm outdoors.

Windmill palms are native to warm, tropical climates and do best in full sun. They’re tolerant of a wide range of soils, but prefer well-drained soil that’s high in organic matter. If you’re growing your palm in a pot, be sure to use a potting mix specifically formulated for palms or cacti and succulents.

Water your palm regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize your palm every six weeks with a balanced fertilizer like 20-20-20.

If you live in an area where winters are cold, you can grow windmill palm outdoors as long as you provide adequate protection. Choose a location that’s sheltered from strong winds, and wrap the trunk of your palm with burlap or other breathable material. You may also need to apply a frost-protection product like anti-transpirant to prevent leaf damage from cold winds.

When temperatures start to drop in fall, stop fertilizing your palm and gradually reduce watering. This will help your palm to go into winter dormancy. If you’re growing your palm in a pot, you can move it indoors for the winter months. Just be sure to place it in a bright, sunny location and water it regularly.

With proper care, windmill palms can grow up to 20 feet tall.

How to care for windmill palm

leaves of young chinese windmill palm

Sun and shade needs.

Windmill palms will do best in full sun to part shade. In deep shade, the fronds will become thin and the plant may eventually die.

Watering needs.

Windmill palms are one of the most drought-tolerant palms, but they still need regular watering during the growing season.

The best way to water a windmill palm is to soak the root ball thoroughly, then let the soil dry out before watering again. During periods of extended drought, you may need to give your palm an occasional deep watering to keep it healthy.

How often do water windmill palm in winter?

During the winter months, it is best to water your windmill palm every two weeks. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.

If you live in an area with low humidity, you may need to water your palm more frequently. Be sure to check the soil regularly and adjust your watering schedule as needed.

Temperature needs.

The windmill palm is a tropical plant, so it requires warm temperatures to thrive. It should be grown in an area that receives full sun, and the temperature should remain consistent throughout the year. The ideal temperature range for windmill palms is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you live in an area with colder winters, you can grow windmill palms in containers and move them indoors when the temperature starts to drop.

Soil Needs.

The soil should be well-drained and high in organic matter. If your soil is heavy, mix in some sand to improve drainage. The palm does not like to sit in soggy soil and will quickly develop root rot if the conditions are too wet.

Fertilizing needs.

Windmill palms need very little fertilizer, but you can give them a light feeding in spring if you like. Use a palm fertilizer or a general-purpose fertilizer that has been diluted by half. Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, being careful not to get any on the leaves.

How to fertilize windmill palm?

Windmill palms are one of the most popular landscaping palms due to their distinctive shape and easy maintenance. These palms require little fertilizer, but regular applications will help keep them looking their best.

To fertilize your windmill palm, use a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. Apply the fertilizer in early spring, before new growth begins. Apply the fertilizer around the base of the palm, out to the drip line (the outer edge of the palm’s leaves).

Water thoroughly after applying fertilizer. You should only need to fertilize your windmill palm once or twice a year. If you see yellowing leaves or poor growth, you may need to increase the frequency of fertilizer applications.

Pruning windmill palm.

Pruning windmill palm is essential to its health and vigor. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. However, if your palm is overgrown or damaged, it may need to be pruned at any time of year.

To prune correctly, start by removing any dead or dying fronds. These can be identified by their brown or yellow color. Next, remove any fronds that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Finally, cut back any fronds that are longer than the others.

When pruning, be sure to use sharp, clean shears. Sterilize them before and after use to prevent the spread of disease.

After you finish pruning, your palm should have a neat, balanced appearance. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to consult with a certified arborist or palm specialist.

Propagation of windmill palm.

Windmill palms are most commonly propagated by seed, although they can also be propagated by division or rooting stem cuttings. Seed propagation is the easiest and most reliable method, but it does take patience as it can take up to two years for a seedling to emerge.

Division is the quickest way to propagate a windmill palm, but it can be difficult to find a palm that is already large enough to divide. Rooting stem cuttings is the most challenging method of propagation, but it is also the most rewarding as it allows you to create an exact clone of the parent plant.

If you are propagating by seed, sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and place them in a warm, sunny location. Keep the soil moist but not wet and wait for the seeds to germinate, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months. Once the seedlings emerge, transplant them into individual pots and care for them as you would any other young palm.

Transplanting windmill palm.

The windmill palm is a tropical plant that originates from Southeast Asia. It is a popular plant to grow in the home landscape due to its easy care and tolerance of various growing conditions.

When transplanting windmill palm, it is important to choose a location that has well-drained soil and full sun. The plant can also tolerate partial sun and shade. The windmill palm prefers moist soils, so be sure to water the plant regularly. Fertilize the plant monthly with a balanced fertilizer.

To transplant the windmill palm, dig a hole that is twice the size of the plant’s root ball. Place the plant in the hole and fill in with soil. Water the plant thoroughly.

Repotting windmill palm.

The process of repotting a windmill palm is actually quite simple and straightforward. The most important thing to keep in mind is to not damage the roots of the plant while you are repotting it. With that said, let’s take a look at the steps involved in repotting a windmill palm.

First, you will need to water the plant thoroughly a day or two before you plan on repotting it. This will help to make the roots more pliable and less likely to break during the repotting process.

Next, you will need to choose a new pot that is only slightly larger than the current pot. The new pot should have drainage holes in the bottom.

Once you have chosen a new pot, you will need to add some fresh potting mix to the bottom of it. You can then start to carefully remove the windmill palm from its current pot.

Be sure to loosen the roots around the edges of the plant before attempting to remove it from the pot. Once you have loosened the roots, you can then gently lift the plant out of the pot.

After you have removed the plant from its pot, you can then start to add fresh potting mix to the new pot. Make sure that you do not damage the roots while you are doing this.

Once you have added fresh potting mix to the new pot, you can then start to gently place the plant into the new pot. Once you have done this, you can then finish up by adding more potting mix around the base of the plant.

Finally, you will need to water the plant thoroughly and make sure that it is in a location where it will receive plenty of light.

Windmill palm Pests and Diseases

The windmill palm (Trachycarpus fortunei) is a popular landscaping plant in warm climates. But this palm isn’t without its problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect windmill palms.

One of the most common pests that affects windmill palms is the scale insect. These pests attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and suck out the sap. This can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves, as well as stunted growth.

If you suspect your windmill palm has scale insects, look for small, brownish bumps on the leaves or stems. You can also try to gently scrape one of these bumps with your fingernail to see if it comes off easily.

To get rid of scale insects, you’ll need to use an insecticide. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully, as using too much insecticide can harm the plant. You may need to treat your windmill palm several times before the scale insects are completely gone.

Another common pest that affects windmill palms is the mealybug. Mealybugs are small, white insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves, as well as stunted growth. If you suspect your windmill palm has mealybugs, look for small, white bugs on the leaves or stems. You can also try to gently scrape one of these bugs with your fingernail to see if it comes off easily.

To get rid of mealybugs, you’ll need to use an insecticide. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully, as using too much insecticide can harm the plant. You may need to treat your windmill palm several times before the mealybugs are completely gone.

One of the most common diseases that affects windmill palms is lethal yellowing. This disease is caused by a bacterium that infects the plant’s vascular system. Symptoms of lethal yellowing include yellowing or browning of the leaves, as well as stunted growth. If you suspect your windmill palm has lethal yellowing, look for these symptoms.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for lethal yellowing. If your windmill palm has this disease, you’ll need to remove it from your landscape.

Another common disease that affects windmill palms is root rot. This disease is caused by a fungus that infects the plant’s roots. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing or browning of the leaves, as well as stunted growth. If you suspect your windmill palm has root rot, look for these symptoms.

To prevent root rot, make sure to plant your windmill palm in well-drained soil. If your windmill palm already has root rot, you’ll need to remove it from your landscape.

How Much Do windmill palm Trees Cost?

Windmill palm trees are a popular choice for many homeowners because of their unique appearance and low maintenance needs. But how much do these beautiful trees cost?

The average cost of a windmill palm tree ranges from $100 to $300, depending on the size and type of tree. The most popular variety, Trachycarpus fortunei, can cost anywhere from $50 to $100. If you want a larger tree, like Trachycarpus wagnerianus, you can expect to pay between $200 and $300.

When purchasing a windmill palm tree, it’s important to consider the size of the tree and the climate in your area.

Related: How Much Do Palm Trees Cost?

Where can I buy a windmill palm?

growing Windmill Palm

If you’re looking for a windmill palm, your best bet is to head to a nursery or garden center that specializes in palms. You may also be able to find them at some big box stores, but the selection will likely be limited. Once you’ve found a few potential sources, it’s time to do some price comparisons.

FastGrowingTrees.com is a great resource for finding windmill palms. They offer a wide variety of palm trees, and their prices are very competitive.

FAQs on windmill palm trees

Is windmill palm toxic to cats or dogs?

The windmill palm is not considered to be toxic to cats or dogs. However, the plant can cause stomach upset if consumed in large quantities. If you think your pet has eaten a windmill palm, contact your veterinarian. Symptoms of stomach upset include vomiting and diarrhea.

How to speed up windmill palm growth?

If you want to speed up the growth of your windmill palm, here are a few things you can do:

-Fertilize regularly. A good quality palm fertilizer will help encourage growth.

-Make sure the tree is getting enough water. Windmill palms are drought tolerant, but they will grow faster if they are well-watered.

-Provide plenty of sunlight. These palms love full sun and will grow best in bright, sunny conditions.

-Prune away any dead or dying leaves. This will encourage the tree to put its energy into new growth.

How Fast Do windmill palms Grow?

Windmill palms are a species of palm tree that is native to the Canary Islands, Madeira, and Cape Verde. These palms can grow up to 20 feet tall and have leaves that are up to 12 feet long.

The windmill palm is a popular landscaping plant in many parts of the world due to its attractive appearance and ability to tolerate cold temperatures.

The speed at which a windmill palm grows depends on a few factors, such as the climate it is planted in and the amount of water and sunlight it receives. In general, however, windmill palms are fast-growing trees that can reach their full height in just a few years.

Are windmill palms slow growing?

No, windmill palms are not slow growing. In fact, they are one of the faster growing palm trees. They can grow up to two feet per year and can reach a height of 30 feet or more. So if you’re looking for a fast-growing palm tree, the windmill palm is a good option.

Are windmill palms easy growing?

The short answer is yes, windmill palms are easy to grow. They are very tolerant of different soil types and conditions, and once established, they are quite drought tolerant. They do best in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.

Windmill palms are also relatively low-maintenance, requiring little pruning or fertilizing. Overall, they are an easy, low-maintenance plant that makes a great addition to any landscape.

How Big Do windmill palm Trees Get?

The windmill palm tree (Trachycarpus fortunei) is a species of palm tree that is native to China. The tree grows to a height of 30-40 feet and has a trunk diameter of 18-24 inches.

The leaves of the tree are fan-shaped and can grow up to three feet in length. The flowers of the tree are white and grow in clusters. The fruit of the tree is a black drupe that is about an inch in diameter.

Other palm trees:

Conclusion

In conclusion, caring for a windmill palm is not difficult as long as you provide it with the proper environment and care. By following the above tips, you can ensure that your palm will thrive for many years to come. Thanks for reading and we hope this article was helpful!