The coconut palm is the Asian tree of life. Coconut palm: proper cultivation of a plant at home Coconut palm care at home

Coconut palm is easy to find in flower shops, it is popular with flower growers, but how long does an exotic beauty linger in average apartments? Unfortunately, she is measured no more than 2 - 3 years, and all because most people have no idea what a capricious pet they bring into the house. The coconut palm looks attractive and original, reminiscent of distant hot countries, is associated with its sweet fresh fruits, from which many manage to get a plant on their own, and it suffers precisely because of its attractiveness. To change the situation, we propose to consider in detail all aspects of caring for a coconut palm. Spoiler - it's not just complicated, it's super complicated!

Coconut palm

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Arriving at a flower shop, you can see a lot of plants that are passed off as coconut palms either unknowingly or intentionally. Usually on the shelves are Weddel coconuts, lithocarias, butias. These are also palm trees, they are difficult to care for, but the difficulties cannot be compared with those that await the owners of real Cocos nucifera.

In nature, coconuts grow in the tropics, but not everywhere, only on the coasts. Their sizes are amazing, but in the conditions of greenhouses more than three meters they do not stretch, and in a very mature state. Palm trees rarely live up to it, so they usually look much more modest.

From the point of view of decorativeness, a young coconut is very beautiful. The nut from which it grows protrudes above the soil surface and sharply contrasts with its rough surface with the tenderness of the greenery of a slender sprout. Gradually, the palm tree becomes more elegant and impressive, the leaves turn from whole to pinnate. In nature, they can reach 2 - 3 meters in length, at home - much less. Palm trees do not bloom within the four walls, no matter how careful the care is, so, of course, you cannot count on getting your own coconuts. But the nut from which they grow is preserved throughout almost the entire life, respectively, and the impressive original appearance is not lost.

Coconut tree care at home

Coconut could be an interesting interior detail if it could exist in this interior. In principle, if your goal is to decorate, and not to get a beautiful healthy plant, you can buy a pet and replace it about once every two years. But even with such plans, one cannot do without tireless care and the creation of the maximum possible comfortable conditions. We repeat - it will be possible to grow a more or less normal specimen exclusively in a greenhouse.

Coconut tree care

Coconut Tree Lighting

The first problem when working with a palm tree is the organization of lighting. It should be bright, intense, year-round and with a long daylight hours. If this condition is not met, the plant will die. You can create something close to the declared one by placing a tub on a south-facing windowsill and organizing artificial lighting.

Comfortable temperature conditions

Coconut is not only the most light-loving, but also the biggest fan of warmth. Throughout the year, it requires heat - from 23 degrees and above. It can survive short-term drops in temperature, but not less than 17 degrees.

At the same time, the palm tree needs access fresh air. The issue is solved by regular ventilation, but the organization of the process is a separate difficulty, because the slightest draft can slow down the growth of a plant, affect its appearance and even kill. A sharp drop in temperature and humidity is also detrimental - this makes winter ventilation almost impossible.

Irrigation of the coconut palm and air humidity

Since coconut is a tropical plant, regular watering will not work. Moreover, any deviation can result in the loss of the plant: one-time or prolonged drying of the soil, the lack of a stable application of liquid. The soil should always be moist, only a few upper centimeters can dry out. It is important to monitor this constantly and take action in time.

Irrigation of the coconut tree

It will not work to drink a palm tree for the future - it does not like excessive moisture just like drought. When setting a schedule, be guided by summer watering 3 times a week, winter - one. But each situation must be considered individually.

Fertilizer for coconut

Fertilizers - important point in cultivation. There are many special products for palm trees on sale, but flower growers note that they do not give the desired effect. Based on many years of experience, the ideal top dressing was determined - a mixture of fertilizers for citrus plants and bonsai.

The composition is introduced during the period of active growth, that is, almost all the time of life at home. If you refuse top dressing, the risk of losing an attractive appearance plants, so it's best not to risk it. Some flower growers recommend limiting themselves to fertilization in early spring, mid-autumn and summer, but in this case concentrated formulations are needed, which often adversely affect the condition of the plant.

pruning coconut

Palm tree crown formation is not required, but it is necessary to clean the plant from dried leaves. It is important to remove only completely dry ones, without touching those that are just starting to change color.

Palm tree crown formation is not required

Coconut transplant and substrate

Young palm trees should be transplanted no more than once every two years. If the plant has already dropped the nut, once every 6 years is enough. At the same time, it is important not to damage the roots of the plant, so it is transshipped, trying not to touch them at all.

For purchased palms, the first transplant into a permanent tub is carried out next spring, but always after the end of the adaptation period. In the future - according to the schedule indicated above. In years when there is no procedure, it is necessary to replace upper layer soil.

In the process of transplanting, it is important to ensure that the nut is no more than half immersed in the ground. Excessive deepening is dangerous, it is better if the protruding part is larger. When moving an old plant, the depth level is maintained.

Synonym: coconut.

The coconut palm is one of the most widespread and valuable tropical trees for humans. In the tropics, the coconut palm is not only a source of food, but also a livelihood for numerous farmers. The coconut palm is one of the ten most important trees in the world.

Ask the experts

flower formula

Coconut flower formula: *♂ N3L3T3+3; *♀ CH3L3P(3).

In medicine

Coconut oil, obtained from palm fruits, is used in official medicine in the manufacture of medicinal ointments and suppositories. Coconut milk is used in traditional medicine countries where the plant grows with severe vomiting to prevent dehydration. Also in traditional medicine, coconut milk is used as a diuretic and antiseptic.

Coconut oil has long been used in Ayurveda (the traditional system of Indian medicine).

Contraindications and side effects

It is better not to use coconut palm fruits for people with a tendency to overweight and diarrhea. Coconuts are also contraindicated in hyperfunction of the thyroid gland.

There are almost no contraindications for the use of coconut oil, however, with individual intolerance, allergic reactions or food poisoning. Use coconut during pregnancy, breastfeeding and childhood recommended strictly after consultation with a specialist.

In cooking

Used for culinary purposes inner part coconut palm fruits, as well as coconut milk. Coconut milk is a pleasant-tasting and thirst-quenching clear liquid found inside an unripe coconut. The content of the ripened nut is called "copra". Copra is white or cream in color and is soft, sweet and oily.

In Indonesia, India, and the Caribbean, unripe coconuts are served whole, but with the top cut off. Coconut milk is drunk through a straw, and the delicious white flesh is scooped out with a special long-handled spoon.

The dried and crushed pulp of coconuts is very much appreciated in Food Industry and is primarily used to produce coconut oil. Coconut oil is colorless, has a pleasant smell and taste, does not smoke when burned and is widely used in cooking and in the confectionery industry.

Partially defatted and ground coconut copra is used as a flavoring in baby food.

From the inflorescences of palm trees, juice is extracted containing about 14.6% sugar, from which crystalline palm raw sugar is prepared by evaporation Brown. After the fermentation of the juice of the inflorescences, wine is obtained, and after distillation, the alcoholic drink “arrack” (“arrack”).

Coconut oil is used as a sweetener in coffee and can also be substituted. sunflower oil when frying food. It has a high smoke point, so much less harmful substances are released from it during frying.

Palm oil can be used to dress salads and spread on toast, and it can be used in baked goods, including pies, cookies, or bakery products, the recipes of which include a large amount of vegetable fats. You can also grease pastry molds with coconut oil before baking to prevent food from sticking to the walls.

Dried and crushed coconut pulp is sprinkled on confectionery, it is added to cereals, desserts, milk soups, ice cream, tropical cocktails, sweets. Coconut milk is a valuable food item for vegetarians and vegans, and coconut water is popular with dieters. Based on coconut milk, coconut cream and coconut water, many Asian dishes, various drinks, cocktails, desserts and convenience foods are prepared.

In cosmetology

Coconut oil in cosmetology is actively used as a nourishing and rejuvenating agent for the skin. Since the time of Queen Cleopatra, its beneficial properties have been known.

The use of coconut oil contributes to maintaining the health and beauty of any type of skin, but it is especially good for dry, flaky, rough and fading facial skin.

The oil has excellent nourishing, softening and moisturizing properties and after application forms a kind of protective film on the skin, which maintains its optimal moisture balance for a long time.

In addition, coconut oil not only smoothes the skin and fine wrinkles, but also improves the overall tone, firmness and elasticity of the skin. Experts recommend coconut oil for sensitive, inflamed and irritated skin.

Coconut oil is also good as a sunscreen and as a moisturizer after sunbathing.

Pure coconut oil can be used both instead of a nourishing night cream and as a protective face cream in severe frost and wind.

Coconut oil can be rubbed into the skin around the nails, this will relieve the skin of dryness and peeling of the cuticle. Also, coconut oil is used instead of hygienic lipstick and lip balms.

You can also use coconut oil for hair care: it is a great replacement for a store-bought conditioner or hair balm. Warm coconut oil hair mask will help to strengthen and add shine to the hair. Massaging your scalp with coconut oil will help get rid of dandruff and prevent it from reappearing.

Coconut oil can be used to remove makeup and waterproof mascara from eyelashes. If you apply a little oil to your eyelashes before going to bed, it will strengthen them. Coconut oil can also be used as a shaving cream, as it improves razor glide and hydrates the skin.

Coconut oil is used in aromatherapy. A light massage of the scalp and temples with fingertips lubricated with coconut oil relieves stress and relaxes well.

Also, coconut oil has a pronounced foaming and cleansing properties, which allows it to be used in soap making.

In other areas

At home

Coconut oil is an excellent cleaner for kitchen utensils (cutting boards, spoons, spatulas) and furniture. It has a disinfectant property, and also protects the tree from drying out. Coconut palm oil restores luster to tarnished metal objects and helps to remove rust from their surface, adds shine to leather goods, removes residue or stains from chewing gum from any surface, even from carpets and hair.

Instead of chemical liquids and tablets for lighting the barbecue, you can use cotton balls pre-moistened with coconut oil.

In crop production

The coconut palm is a huge tree, so it is recommended for growing in spacious conservatories. For good growth, the coconut palm needs warm air temperatures throughout the year, but especially in winter. In summer, the plant requires abundant watering, but without excessive soil moisture. From October, watering should be gradually reduced. Palm transplantation is carried out every two years. When transplanting, pay attention to the position of the nut, it should partially peek above the soil level.

You can also grow your own coconut palm from a nut, there are several ways to do this. by the most the best option is the purchase of a finished palm seedling. After the purchase, the sprout should be transplanted into a special soil. Then you need to put the transplanted seedling in a well-lit place and water regularly.

Another way is to grow the palm directly from the fruit of the coconut palm. Remove the outer layer of the nut. Scald the cut fruit hot water, and then fill the nut halfway with warm water and place in a warm place. After about two months, the coconut will begin to sprout. After the sprout appears, you can carefully transplant the coconut into the ground. An important note - when transplanting, only the lower half of the nut should be in the ground.

In other areas

Almost all parts of the coconut palm are used by humans. From the hard shell of coconut palm nuts, they make dishes, crafts, jewelry, souvenirs, musical instruments, also valuable charcoal is obtained from it. The fibrous shell of the nut shell (coir) after soaking turns into a hard fiber for mattresses, brushes, ropes.

From the trunks of coconut trees they build houses, make furniture, boat hulls and masts, and the leaves are used as roofing material. Ropes, mats, brushes, brooms are made from hardwood fibers.

In tropical countries, coconut oil is being experimentally used as an alternative fuel for Vehicle. Copra cake is fed to dairy cattle in the tropics.

An interesting experiment was done many times by scientists in the Hawaiian Islands. An open coconut nut was exposed to the sun, then electrodes were attached to it, so it turned into a battery capable of supplying energy to an ordinary transistor receiver for a month. It turns out that in sunlight and heat in the pulp of the nut, the rapid development of a special type of bacteria begins - Aeromonas formicas. They form formic acid ( component the so-called biochemical heat cell), which is the basis of the electrolyte for charging transistor batteries. The rapid activity of microorganisms leads to the decomposition of organic substances, turning the nut into a miniature thermal power plant.

Classification

Coconut palm (lat. Cocos nucifera L.) belongs to the genus Coconut (lat. Cocos L.), the Palm family (lat. Palmae L.).

Botanical description

The coconut palm is a tall, fast-growing tree, reaching a height of up to 30 meters and a diameter of 50-60 cm. The roots are adventitious, horizontal. The trunk is slender, unbranched, curved, with annular scars from fallen off leaf sheaths. At the end of the tapering trunk is a crown of 20-30 pinnate leaves up to 6.5 m long and about 1 m wide, with large sheaths. The plant is monoecious, dioecious, pollinated by insects. Inflorescence - panicle up to 2 m long. Around each inflorescence is a woody covering leaf that opens when flowering. Different-sex flowers are collected in one inflorescence: pistillate flowers are at the bottom of the inflorescence, staminate ones are at the top. Perianth tiled, yellowish. Male inflorescences bloom earlier. After the end of the flowering of male flowers, female flowers bloom so that there is no self-pollination. That's why female flowers Coconut palms are pollinated only by the pollen of other plants.

The fruit is a coconut, a fibrous drupe consisting of an outer fibrous mass, a hard shell, and an endosperm-seed. The endosperm is at first liquid, transparent, sweet and sour, very pleasant in taste. One nut can contain up to 0.5 liters of this refreshing liquid. Gradually, droplets of fatty oil appear in it, an emulsion is formed white color- coconut milk. It has an even more pleasant taste, but not so thirst quenching. Gradually, the endosperm hardens, turning into a white pulp, similar in consistency to boiled chicken protein.

Spreading

The coconut palm is believed to be native to Southeast Asia. In the wild and in cultivation, the coconut palm is distributed in the tropical zones of both hemispheres of the Earth. To date, the largest coconut palm plantations are in Malaysia, India, Thailand, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. Coconut also grows in Papua New Guinea, Myanmar, Tanzania, China, Jamaica, Brazil, Nigeria, Vietnam, etc.

Procurement of raw materials

Palm fruits, which are intended for fresh consumption, are harvested 7 months after the start of flowering of the plant.

At a temperature of 0-1.5 ° C, nuts can be stored for up to 2 months, at room conditions - up to 2 weeks.

Fruits for the production of copra and coir are harvested at full maturity, approximately 11 months after flowering.

In ripe coconuts, the thick fibrous shell is peeled off and then the shell is split in two with a knife blow. The halves of the nut are dried a little and the pulp is scraped out.

In the manufacture of coconut oil, the hardened flesh of the coconut is first separated from its hard shell, then the shelled copra is dried and crushed. After that, coconut oil with a characteristic delicate, sweetish aroma is obtained from coconut raw materials by pressing.

The most commonly used method is hot pressing, in which at least 300 g of vegetable oil is obtained from 1 kilogram of copra. The more gentle cold-pressed technology, which allows obtaining the oil with the highest nutritional and biological value, is more expensive due to the low yield of the finished product.

Coconut oil comes in unrefined (unrefined) and refined (deodorized, high-pressure refining). Refined coconut oil differs from unrefined in color and transparency. Also, refined coconut oil practically does not have a characteristic pleasant tropical aroma.

Chemical composition

The edible part of the coconut contains from 48.2 to 51.7% dry matter; 26-55% sugars, predominantly glucose and fructose; 3.2-3.6% proteins; 27.2-39.0% fat; 3.0-6.6% fiber. Ash elements 0.8-1.0%, they are represented by phosphorus (83-116 mg / 100 g), calcium (13-23 mg / 100 g), iron (1.7-2.5 mg / 100 g), potassium (256-555 mg/100 g), sodium (7-23 mg/100 g). The vitamin complex of fruits consists of vitamins B1 (0.03-0.05 mg / 100 g), B2 (0.02-0.04 mg / 100 g), B5 (0.5-0.8 mg / 100 g) and vitamin C (up to 6 mg/100 g). Also contains vitamin K and PP. Coconut is rich in essential and nonessential amino acids, phytosterols, omega-6 fatty acids, saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Pharmacological properties

Beneficial features coconut oil due to it chemical composition. Lauric acid, found in coconut oil, increases the level of "good" cholesterol, positively affecting the heart and blood vessels. Coconut oil improves metabolism due to the presence of saturated fats in its composition, which are easily absorbed and used by the liver for energy, and also stimulate the burning of own fat. Saturated acids also improve the absorption of calcium and magnesium.

Application in traditional medicine

Coconuts were used by the locals in the treatment of poisoning and against cholera. In the Philippines, drops are prepared from the pulp of coconut nuts, which are used for ear pain in children.

Coconut milk in folk medicine is used externally for sexually transmitted diseases. From the ashes of coconut shells and wine, a composition is prepared for the treatment of ulcers and skin inflammations.

Using the antimicrobial properties of coconut oil, traditional healers prevent dirt and bacteria from getting into minor cuts and scrapes on the body by applying a little oil to them. Coconut oil also reduces itching from mosquito bites.

Coconut oil whitens teeth, improves skin condition, removes toxins and kills germs, these properties are used in the practice of Ayurveda, including for oral hygiene. Also, with a sore throat or cough, folk healers recommend taking a little coconut oil inside. pure form or add it to tea.

Historical reference

For the first time, a description of the coconut palm was found in the book of the famous Italian traveler Marco Polo (1254-1324). The name of this palm tree - coconut, comes from the Portuguese word "coco" (monkey). The nuts seemed to the sailors from the Vasco expedition to Gama like monkey muzzles.

Coconut palm has long been grown on ocean coasts, coral islands and atolls in virtually all tropical regions of the world. For a long time it was believed that the palm spreads with the help of the floating properties of coconuts, which are carried by sea currents, storms and hurricanes. However, Thor Heyerdahl denied this version during his expeditions. He proved that coconuts in sea water quickly lose their germination. Therefore, the main distributor of coconut palms is man.

The coconut palm is a tree that gives the natives a lot: food, drinks, textile material, building materials, and fuel. Therefore, Catholic missionaries in the 19th century called the coconut tree "the lazy tree", because according to the Bible, a person had to work "in the sweat of his face." Fearing the detrimental effect of the "paradise" way of life on the morality of the natives of the southern islands, the missionaries forced them to cut down these trees.

Literature

1. Coconut palm / Morshchikhina S. S. // Great Soviet Encyclopedia: [in 30 volumes] / ch. ed. A. M. Prokhorov. - 3rd ed. - M.: Soviet Encyclopedia, 1969-1978.

Coconut palm how to care for at home. Coconut palm: reproduction. Coconut palm: transplant. Coconut palm: cultivation. Conditions necessary for growing palm trees.

COCONUT PALMA (Cocos nucifera)

The coconut palm has very sparse, long leaves grouped in pairs, forming vayu. The frond appears directly from a nut lying in a pot and half buried in the soil.

As the plant develops, the lower branches die off and new ones appear at the top of the main stem; thus, over time, a palm trunk is formed.

The coconut tree grows very slowly and is usually bought as a curiosity. The main condition for caring for her is to make sure that the nut does not rot. In no case should water fall on it - neither during watering, nor when spraying.

Coconut palm. Conditions of detention

Illumination: full sunlight.

Temperature: in winter - not lower than 18 ° С. In summer, the plant tolerates temperatures up to 27 ° C.

Coconut palm watering: make sure that the soil is always slightly moist; In the summer, water the palm tree 1-2 times a week. Don't let water get on the nut and don't leave the pot in the water pan.

Air humidity: mist regularly as the coconut tree needs high humidity. When spraying, remember that drops of water remaining on the leaves can cause burns. Place the pot in a tray of wet pebbles or place it in a container of wet peat.

Palm top dressing: in the summer, every 3 weeks, feed the palm tree with fertilizers for indoor plants diluted with water. Use half the concentration compared to that recommended by the manufacturer.

Palm soil: a mixture of 2 parts clay soil mixture with 1 part peat and 1 part sand. If possible, add some vermiculite (2 tablespoons per 17cm pot). Good drainage is required.

Palm transplant: when the old pot becomes too small, transplant the palm tree into the next largest pot. Alternatively, replace only the top layer of soil (about 3 cm) with a fresh mixture so as not to damage the roots. A very large plant (about 2 m tall) may need a heavier mixture of 3 parts clay soil, 1 part peat moss and 1 part coarse sand.

A coconut tree growing in a large tub looks very exotic. Complements any interior, representing a bright accent. But in order to grow it at home, you need to know the features of caring for this plant. Consider how to plant a coconut palm in a flowerpot, the nuances of its reproduction. In the article you will find detailed descriptions stages of cultivation and photography of the plant.

The coconut palm is the only member of the Coconut genus. In the natural environment (tropics and subtropics), many varieties of this plant grow. For example, subspecies of nut-bearing coconut:

viridis, which has green fruits;
tall - typica;
dwarf forms - nana.

Coconut tree in natural conditions

Ornamental stunted palm trees have also been bred, giving inedible fruits. yellow color. Varietal forms have nuts of various shades, the most common are:

Brown.
Greens.
Orange.
Yellow etc.

Types of coconuts

The variety of appearance of coconuts can be found in the photo. Fruits differ not only in color, but also in shape, they can be oval, teardrop-shaped, round, pear-shaped, elongated, etc. The size of the nut and the kernel inside it also directly depends on the variety.

Important. In nature, the coconut palm reaches 30 m in height. But at home, it will grow no more than 6 m. For growing in a tub, you must try to find a specially bred undersized form that can please the eye for many years. Whereas the tall variety will live at home for no more than 7 years.

Coconut palm propagation, germination and planting

Reproduction occurs by seeds, i.e. the fruit of the coconut palm itself sprouts. For planting, only a nut covered with a shell is suitable. Stores sell already peeled coconuts. The top layers, exocarp and coir, are always removed before the product hits the counter. This valuable raw material is used in industry.

Planting a coconut

To get a coconut palm sprout, you must have a ripe fruit that has not been processed. The photo clearly shows what a viable nut looks like. Coconuts with a large supply of juice inside germinate best. If you shake it, you can hear a gurgle. Before planting, the fruit must be soaked in water for at least 2-3 days. This creates conditions that are as close as possible to the natural environment when it swims in the ocean.

Important. Coconuts are able to travel across the ocean for more than a year. At the same time, their ability to germinate is not lost. And as soon as the wave beats the fruit on the sandy shore, a sprout will appear.

Coconut can only hatch at a temperature of about 30 ° C. Humidity should also be high. This is a very long process, it may take up to six months. Suitable Conditions for germination, you can create in a greenhouse or greenhouse. After the appearance of the sprout, the fruit is placed in a tub with soil. Only the lower part is covered with a substrate, and the top of the nut should be above ground level. Mimicking natural conditions. In their natural environment, coconut palms grow well on sand, but are able to develop on other soils.

coconut tree sprout

For growing at home, the substrate must be soft and loose. It is good to use a universal flower primer, diluted 1:1 with coarse sand. You can add peat and humus. The optimal diameter of the planting container is approximately twice the size of the fruit itself. Be sure to install a drainage layer and holes for excess moisture to escape.

Coconut germination requires patience and special conditions. If there is no desire to do this, then you can always purchase a young plant of an ornamental variety in the garden center.

Features of care

Keep this tropical plant in a well-lit place. But it is advisable to protect it from exposure to direct sunlight, because with their constant exposure, the leaves curl and dry out. A spacious bright hall or a balcony, slightly shaded, if it faces south, will do. In rooms where there is not enough light, you will have to additionally artificially illuminate the young palm tree. The temperature should not fall below 15 ° C, colder conditions threaten the palm with death.

A constant level of humidity is very important for the plant.

The plant needs moist air, ideally 75%. The heating system dries it out a lot. Therefore, in winter time provide additional humidification of the air in the room. When spraying, you need to try so that the water does not fall on the nut, but only irrigate the leaves.

Constant watering is vital for the coconut palm. After all, at home, it grows on the coasts of the seas and oceans. Complete drying of the earthen coma should not be allowed. young plant, especially if it is in a clay pot, watered every day. The first 3-4 years require annual transplants. When placing a palm tree in a new, more spacious container, you need to save an earthen lump. At the age of 5 years or more, instead of transplanting, high-quality humus is added dropwise on the soil surface.

Important. An integral part of the care of a coconut tree growing in a tub is pruning. Remove broken, dried leaves. But those that have changed their color, darkened or somewhat yellowed leaf plates are left. Because the plant draws the necessary nutrient compounds from them.

Fertilizers, dressings, typical diseases and pests

The coconut tree grows very slowly, consuming a lot of nutrients. And although with biological point the view of the plant is undemanding to the composition of the soil; due to the lack of space at home, it must be fertilized. For this, it is recommended to use organic substances. For best results, it is best to feed every month.

It is advisable to start fertilizing in the spring. Continue to do this regularly throughout the summer. And in the fall, gradually reduce top dressing so that they are stopped in winter. During this period, it is better to leave an adult plant alone, reducing not only nutrition, but also irrigation.

For the development of a palm tree in an apartment, the plant needs regular top dressing.

Insufficiently careful and thoughtful care of the plant provokes the occurrence of diseases. Excessive watering contributes to the development of fungal infections, under the influence of which the root system can rot. In pot culture, the coconut palm is affected by a number of pests, the most common of which are:

Shchitovki;
Spider mites;
Mealybugs;
thrips;
False shields.

To combat these insects, insecticides are used, the use of which is allowed indoors.

Growing and caring for a coconut palm at home is quite laborious and time consuming. But having received a healthy beautiful specimen, you can rightly be proud of it. Such exotic plant exceptionally attractive, decorative and unusual. It is sure to wow guests and delight hosts.

How to grow a palm tree in your home: video

A coconut tree growing in a large tub looks very exotic. Complements any interior, representing a bright accent. But in order to grow it at home, you need to know the features of caring for this plant. Consider how to plant a coconut palm in a flowerpot, the nuances of its reproduction. In the article you will find detailed descriptions of the stages of cultivation and photographs of the plant.

Forms, varieties and varieties

The coconut palm is the only member of the Coconut genus. In the natural environment (tropics and subtropics), many varieties of this plant grow. For example, subspecies of nut-bearing coconut:

viridis, which has green fruits;
tall - typica;
dwarf forms - nana.

Coconut tree in natural conditions

Ornamental undersized palm trees have also been bred, giving inedible yellow fruits. Varietal forms have nuts of various shades, the most common are:

Brown.
Greens.
Orange.
Yellow etc.

Types of coconuts

Important. In nature, the coconut palm reaches 30 m in height. But at home, it will grow no more than 6 m. For growing in a tub, you must try to find a specially bred undersized form that can please the eye for many years. Whereas the tall variety will live at home for no more than 7 years.

Coconut palm propagation, germination and planting

Planting a coconut

Coconut can only hatch at a temperature of about 30 ° C. Humidity should also be high. This is a very long process, it may take up to six months. Suitable conditions for germination can be created in a greenhouse or greenhouse. After the appearance of the sprout, the fruit is placed in a tub with soil. Only the lower part is covered with a substrate, and the top of the nut should be above ground level. Mimicking natural conditions. In their natural environment, coconut palms grow well on sand, but are able to develop on other soils.

coconut tree sprout

Coconut germination requires patience and special conditions. If there is no desire to do this, then you can always purchase a young plant of an ornamental variety in the garden center.

Features of care

A constant level of humidity is very important for the plant.

The plant needs moist air, ideally 75%. The heating system dries it out a lot. Therefore, in winter, they provide additional humidification of the air in the room. When spraying, you need to try so that the water does not fall on the nut, but only irrigate the leaves.

Constant watering is vital for the coconut palm. After all, at home, it grows on the coasts of the seas and oceans. Complete drying of the earthen coma should not be allowed. A young plant, especially if it is in a clay pot, is watered every day. The first 3-4 years require annual transplants. When placing a palm tree in a new, more spacious container, you need to save an earthen lump. At the age of 5 years or more, instead of transplanting, high-quality humus is added dropwise on the soil surface.

Important. An integral part of the care of a coconut tree growing in a tub is pruning. Remove broken, dried leaves. But those that have changed their color, darkened or somewhat yellowed leaf plates are left. Because the plant draws the necessary nutrient compounds from them.

Fertilizers, dressings, typical diseases and pests

The coconut tree grows very slowly, consuming a lot of nutrients. And although from a biological point of view, the plant is undemanding to the composition of the soil, due to the lack of space at home, it must be fertilized. For this, it is recommended to use organic substances. For best results, it is best to feed every month.

For the development of a palm tree in an apartment, the plant needs regular top dressing.

Shchitovki;
Spider mites;
Mealybugs;
thrips;
False shields.

To combat these insects, insecticides are used, the use of which is allowed indoors.

Growing and caring for a coconut palm at home is quite laborious and time consuming. But having received a healthy beautiful specimen, you can rightly be proud of it. Such an exotic plant is extremely attractive, decorative and unusual. It is sure to wow guests and delight hosts.

How to grow a palm tree in your home: video

Cultivation of coconut palm: photo

Coconut palm- a large, tree-like plant, which is intensively cultivated in the tropics. The palm grows very fast, the nuts it gives are used as food, it is a very important crop. Coconut is widely distributed throughout the world, and even in the outback of Russia it is very easy to find it in a decent supermarket. The most curious, of course, will want to grow a coconut palm in a pot. It turns out that getting a room coconut is not so easy ...

How to grow a coconut tree?

* Choose the right coconut.

In order to germinate a coconut, it is important to choose a quality planting material. Ordinary "food" nuts from the store will not work, since all protective fibers are removed from them, which deprives them of germination. Fresh coconuts that have fallen from a palm tree sprout ideally. It is important that the coconut is ripe, juicy and healthy looking. You can bring them from your vacation or order them online.

* We plant a homemade coconut.

In nature, before sprouting, coconuts tend to roll along the surf line, float in the water and absorb moisture. We should simulate this situation by soaking the coconut in soft water for 2-3 days. The water should be changed daily and, if possible, rotate the coconut so that the whole shell is evenly soaked. This will help make it easier for the sprout of the future palm tree to break through.

For planting, a small pot is suitable, 2 times larger in diameter than the nut itself. The pot should have many drainage holes. The substrate can be used ready-made, flower, it is important to create a drainage layer at the bottom of the pot.

When planting a coconut, it is easiest to place it in a supine position, on its side. It can also be buried in the soil with a blunt end, leaving 1/3 of the total length above the ground.

For the emergence of seedlings, it is important to warm +30 degrees, sunlight and high humidity. Coconut can be covered by creating a translucent greenhouse where a lot of condensation will collect. The soil should be kept moist and monitored to prevent mold or musty odors.

Coconut sprouts for a long time, from three months to six months. This is due to the fact that the nut shell is very dense and it takes such a period of time for life to arise inside.

* Caring for a coconut tree at home.

At home, it is very difficult to create conditions close to tropical. Our air is dry, and apart from a humidifier, nothing will help to establish a decent humidity. If you don’t have a device, spray the palm tree more often, put wet expanded clay in the pan.

Coconut palm is grown in a bright, well-lit place. If this is a south window, do not forget about shading at the peak of solar activity. In summer, the plant grows well outdoors.

Coconut grows all year round room temperature. If the indicators fall below +15, the plant may just get sick!

With the growth of the palm tree, a transplant will be required. The pot must be enlarged by transferring the nut by transshipment, without destroying the earthen clod. After a year, light humus top dressing can be added to the substrate.

Unfortunately, the living environment significantly limits the life resources of the coconut palm. The plant cannot properly grow roots, develop, bear fruit, and at the age of five years it usually begins to wither and soon dies. If you are very lucky, in flower shops or at specialized exhibitions you can find special varieties of homemade coconuts suitable for indoor cultivation.

In any case, the experience of sprouting coconut and observing the life of a tropical coconut tree is very interesting. It could be long term creative project for a child, or just an unforgettable experience for you!

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Coconut lovers can be envied and sympathized at the same time. Envy because from this product they will get most of the vitamins and useful substances necessary for the body. But, unfortunately, not always in our stores there is a tropical nut that is suitable for consumption. Often, due to long transportation, already overripe or dried coconuts get on the shelves. Of course, even if you know how to grow a coconut at home, this problem cannot be solved. But it is possible to get a beautiful palm tree.

This is a rather complicated and time-consuming process, but it is still possible to do it. The main snag is where to find a coconut to plant. The fruits that are sold in the store will not work for this. They, most often, have already been cleared of the fibrous membrane and therefore will not sprout. Ideally, this should be a nut that has fallen from a palm tree and is immediately delivered to you. Try contacting specialized stores or firms.

When the coconut is picked up, proceed directly to cultivation. Coconut palm at home will grow only if you follow the instructions. Then you will soon be able to enjoy a delicious coconut grown with your own hands.

Nut preparation

Before planting a coconut, it must be sent to a container filled with water. The nut should stay there for 2-3 days. Thus, you will bring the fruit closer to natural conditions, because often, before getting to the ground and germinating, a palm nut floats in the ocean. Also, water will soften the fibrous shell, and the coconut will sprout faster.

Pay attention to the container in which you will plant. It should not be very deep, but have a large diameter: twice the size of the nut. Make drainage holes for the coconut to breathe. As a soil, a flower mixture supplemented with sand is suitable.

planting a coconut

Take a pot and pour a small layer of expanded clay on the bottom, then earth mixed with sand and make a depression for the fruit. Coconut palm at home can be planted in two versions: vertically and horizontally.

In the first case, pay attention to the blunt end of the nut. This is the place where he was attached to the palm tree. Place the coconut with this side down and bury 2/3 of the fruit in the ground. In the second option, place the coconut on its side and compact the soil around it.

The sprout does not appear too quickly, it will take 3-6 months. If you don’t want to wait so long, buy a sprouted palm tree in the store. This will save you a lot of time.

Features of care

It is necessary to follow the correct temperature regime. For such a tropical plant, the ideal temperature is 30 degrees. It is also desirable to create a mini greenhouse. Cover the coconut with a material that allows light to pass through. Constantly maintain soil moisture, but at the same time, make sure that the water does not stagnate.

Coconut palm at home should be well lit, but not under direct sunlight. sunbeams. The ideal option is a window on the south side, which has a slight shadow. When the palm has sprouted enough, transplant it into a larger pot. Do not completely shake off the soil in which it grew from the nut. Just transfer it to a new container and add more soil.

A palm tree grown on a windowsill will not bear fruit, but will be a wonderful element for interior decor. The tree grows for about five years and acquires quite impressive dimensions during this time. Then it dies, but if properly cared for, you can extend its life for a few more years.

Coconut Tree: Video

Many types of citrus grow well at home. But how to grow a lemon from a seed, which would not only decorate the room with leathery dark green foliage, but also bear fruit?

It is the absence of ovaries on grown plants that often disappoints home citrus growers. Indeed, in the best case, from the moment of planting to the flowering of an indoor lemon, it takes from 4 to 7 years. And yet, getting a lemon from a stone is an exciting and not hopeless exercise. A strong tree can be used as a rootstock by grafting a cutting of a cultivated specimen onto it, or it can be pushed to bear fruit with competent care and crown formation.

If you are going to grow a lemon from a stone at home, you need to be patient and have some knowledge.

The main mistake of indoor plant lovers who have failed in the cultivation of lemon or other citrus fruits is that for sowing seeds were used that were long removed from the fruit and had time to dry out.

It is much more correct to remove the seeds from ripe fresh lemons, rinse them with warm water and embed them in the substrate immediately, without drying. This will greatly increase the number of seedlings.

And experienced citrus growers recommend another way to increase the speed and quality of germination. For this, moist, home-grown lemon pits are carefully removed with a sharp knife from the hard surface shell, which is the main obstacle to the sprout hidden in the seed.

Following this advice, you need to be extremely careful and careful. An incorrect movement threatens to damage the cotyledons or the tender embryo, and then the lemon from the stone will definitely not appear.

If lemon seeds remain in the shell, it is useful to immerse them in a growth stimulator solution for several hours, preventing the surface of the seeds from drying out between processing and planting.

Growing lemon from seed at home

Before planting lemon seeds, choose shallow wide containers with obligatory drainage holes. A 2-centimeter layer of fine expanded clay or vermiculite is poured onto the bottom of a pot or other container so that all excess moisture that is dangerous for delicate roots, flowing down, does not linger and leaves the ground in time.

The soil for growing lemon from the stone at home can be made independently by mixing garden soil, humus and sand. In such a substrate, it is useful to add a little crushed charcoal which will reduce the risk of bacterial infections. If you do not have the necessary ingredients on hand, a ready-made citrus substrate, which is easy to buy in a specialty store, will do.

All preparatory work carried out. Now it's time to start planting. How to grow a lemon from a stone at home?

The best sowing time is the end of winter. Then the hatched sprouts will receive good support in the form of an increasing daylight hours.

Seeds are planted in moist soil to a depth of about two centimeters. Several seeds can be planted in one container at once. Since the first transplant is waiting for the seedlings, when 3-4 true leaves appear on them, the plants will not interfere with each other.

Containers are determined in a greenhouse or placed in heat, after being covered with a bag or film. Do not forget that all citrus fruits are thermophilic, therefore, it is possible to grow a lemon from a seed at home only if a certain temperature regime is observed.

Seedlings will not start growing if the air and soil in the room are colder than +18 ° C. It is optimal if seed germination and subsequent growth takes place at a temperature of 22 to 25 ° C, with constantly high humidity, the absence of drafts and other negative factors. Compliance with simple rules on how to grow a lemon from a seed allows you to get friendly strong seedlings.

On average, from sowing to the moment sprouts appear, it takes from a week to a month. During this time, the soil in the pot can be gently sprayed, but it should be watered only when there are obvious signs of drying out.

With the appearance of green sprouts above the soil surface, they gradually begin to accustom to room conditions, airing and slightly opening the greenhouse. When 3-4 leaves appear on a young lemon from the stone, the film is removed altogether, and the seedlings are sorted and transferred to their own small pots.

Since the seeds of hybrid fruits do not always carry parental characteristics, citrus growers seeking to get a lemon from the stone at home risk growing a "wild".

It is possible to understand how soon the tree will begin to bear fruit, and what quality the ripe fruits will be, already by external signs. First of all, cultivated citrus trees are distinguished by a small number of thorns on the shoots.

Further care in the first year of seedlings consists in timely watering, transplanting and pinching for the initial formation of the crown of the future tree.
In addition, plants

in the summer months, after 10–14 days, they are fed, alternating a solution of humus and liquid mineral fertilizers;
on cloudy days and in the cold season, they are additionally illuminated with the help of fluorescent or LED phytolamps.

The duration of illumination largely affects the flowering and fruiting of plants from the tropical zone. Therefore, the acquisition of such lamps should be taken care of before growing a lemon from a seed.

A transplant for young lemons is carried out annually, and the plant should be transferred very carefully, without disturbing the root system. If the roots have not yet mastered the entire earthen ball, you can get by with replacing the surface layer.

Interested in how to grow a lemon from a seed, many enthusiasts look forward to first shoots, and then the first flowers. But in order not to weaken the plant, the lemon should not be allowed to bear fruit until it reaches the age of 2-3 years. Seed lemon is ripe for flowering when there is only one flower per 15 leaves of its crown.

If earlier the formation of the ovary weakens the tree, then pinching at the age of about a year only contributes to the formation of the crown and lays the foundation for the future good harvests. Therefore, in a very young plant, it is necessary to remove all shoots directed deep into the crown, pinch the tops of excessively long shoots, and sometimes turn the pot with a tree so that it is illuminated and develops as evenly as possible.

Part 1. Planting seeds

Part 2. The appearance of the first sprouts

Part 3. Transplanting seedlings