by Diane Quinn

Created on: August 13, 2008   Last Updated: August 22, 2008

Palm trees bring to mind Florida, California and tropical islands. Just watching a palm tree sway in the wind conjures relaxing images or memories of an especially pleasant vacation.

People who live in warm climates enjoy the luxury of growing many different types of palm trees. If you live in a cold climate, you may be surprised to learn that there several types of palm trees that can survive in freezing temperatures.

Now that you've decided you definitely want a palm tree, how do you go about finding and planting one?

1. The first step is research. Determine the palm tree best suited for your specific needs and climate. In addition to temperature requirements, also take into consideration trees that prefer shade versus ones that prefer sun. If you live in a cold climate, consider the dwarf sugar palm or Bismark palm. Both can grow in freezing temperatures and can reach a height of 15 feet.

2. Size of the planting space. Where do you wish to plant your palm tree? Palm trees come in all sizes and shapes, and care should be taken when considering how large they will grow when fully mature. Another important consideration is the plants or landscape that will be shaded by the palm tree as it matures.

3. Seek reputable wholesalers. When you are ready to make your purchase, seek a palm tree wholesaler who offers a wide selection of trees and who can either plant the palm tree for you, or offer important tips along with the tree itself. Most palm trees come potted, but some are also sold in burlap bags wrapped around the root balls. If you cannot plant your palm tree soon after purchase, make sure that the roots remain moist until you are ready to plant, no later than within two or three days.

4. Plant at the right time. Spring is generally best to plant a palm tree. However, people who live in warmer climates are successful planting them in fall as well.

5. Soil preparation. Palm trees need a healthy soil just like any other tree. If your soil does not meet the requirements, consider amending the soil with high nutrient compost which also supports better drainage.

6. Plant the palm tree. The hole for a palm tree should be twice as wide as the root ball and as deep as the pot from which you remove it. If the tree is not in a pot, but wrapped in burlap, just make sure that the hole is deep enough for the entire root ball. When in place in the new hole, replace the excavated soil and lightly tap the area so that the soil settles naturally around the roots. It is often a

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