Saturday, November 14, 2009

How can I save my potted palm?

My cats are destroying my potted palm. It was a large potted palm about 3 ft. high. I have it in a pot that has a 10 inch base and wider sides at the top. It does have a drainage hole. The cats have got it down to 3 frons and 3 new shoots. I have taken steps to keep the cats away from it but its really looking terrible. I put sheets of lint roller tape in the pot to keep the cats out and spray them with a plant sprayer.

How can I save my potted palm?
Hi there! Is it only the cats that is giveing your plant a hard time? Is your plant getting enough sunlight/too much sunlight? Potted Palms enjoy as much light as you can give them. I sure hope the kittys havn't been makeing potty in the pot, or that will for sure be the end of it. Acidic and all that.


Keep the soil moist, but not wet. They are also heavy "feeders", meaning they do enjoy a liquid lunch now and then, yes, even in the winter. Keep them warm, no drafts, at least 72*. Trim off any sick or broken branches. Even if it does make it look smaller. When you do water, you should use warm water, remember, do not over water. Moist, but NOT wet. Now, if you REALLY want to go over board, give it a name, like, Hmmm, Fronzzy, and talk to it now and then. Try also putting a few toys or whatever to help keep your cats out. My cat , thank goodness, doesn't like plants. Good luck with "Fronzzy". May the plant gods be with you.


Bertram.
Reply:Do you have a laundry basket that you can put the pot in, as a shield?





Try getting bamboo or dowel rods longer than the plant is tall and stick them around the circumference of the pot.





You might also spray the plant with a spray of water with a bit of veg oil, and hot sauce - as a preventative.





And set up a distraction, perhaps hang a catnip mouse, or buy a small container plant of it.
Reply:Are the cats still a problem? Otherwise in order to try and boost your palm back into shape, make sure you are following the care requirements for your specific palm (water, light, etc.) Also you could give it a water soluable houseplant food, to try and give it a little boost as well. Good luck!!!
Reply:Try a product called "Shake Away for cats". It is made from predatory animal urine and is safe for plants, animals, and children. I use this to keep the cats away from my sandbox.


Good Luck





http://www.amazon.com/Shake-Away-SACAT-C...


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