How to Fertilize a Foxtail Palm
- 1). Select a balanced, slow-release, coated granular fertilizer product designed for palm trees with the addition of micro-nutrients, such as magnesium and iron, clearly noted on the label. Look for a fertilizer with a guaranteed analysis of 13-5-11, 13-5-8 or similar N-P-K ratio.
- 2). Cast the fertilizer grains evenly around the entire root zone of the palm tree, keeping the grains from direct contact with the base of the tree trunk to prevent over-concentration of nutrients. Follow the label-recommended dosing for the size of the planted area and adhere to the recommended frequency of application for your particular soil conditions.
- 3). Leave the fertilizer grains to rest on the surface of the soil and water in well to drench the fertilizer and the top few inches of soil thoroughly. Do not till the fertilizer grains into the soil as this can disturb or destroy healthy surface roots.
- 4). Lay down a few inches of coarse organic mulch like shredded bark or cocoa hulls to protect the fertilizer grains from being disturbed. Start the mulch a few inches out from the trunk and extend out to the drip line of the canopy. Mulch will also help to hold moisture in the soil, boost soil fertility naturally and prevent any surface roots from being damaged by lawn equipment or foot traffic.