Palms are among those plants whose propagation is not the easiest. Many parameters must be taken into account to succeed in this operation.
The various methods of propagation
Sowing seeds remains the most common method. In palms, the size, shape and color of seeds vary considerably from one species to another. For example, a Sabal minor seed will only measure a few millimeters while a coconut (Cocos nucifera) will be much larger!
In addition to sowing, other methods are possible on the species producing offshoots.
Some of them produce shoots at their feet, it is then easy to take them, others of the seedlings directly on the stipe, which it will be then necessary to marcotter.
In the horticultural industry, palms are multiplied by cloning but we will not go into the details of this technique reserved for professionals.
Sowing
This is the method most appreciated by palm growers, which is why we will detail it here.
The amateurs are sometimes put in failure by the non respect of certain parameters which we will learn to know better in order to control them:
The viability of seeds
The viability, that is to say the capacity of a seed to germinate in a given time, depends not only on the species (from a few weeks for the Latiana to several years for the Phoenix canariensis or the Cocos nucifera), but also on the conservation of these.
Palms growing in tropical areas need heat, the same applies to their seeds which should be kept at adequate temperatures (minimum 20°C). The rate of hygrometry is also important; if the seed dries too much, it will lose its germinative power.
Treatment before sowing
A specific treatment can also be necessary to induce a good germination. Thus, a few days in the refrigerator's crisper can be beneficial for species originating from temperate regions with a marked cold season. Others will have to be soaked 48h before sowing, others still will have to be well brushed and washed to remove the germination inhibiting substance present in their flesh!
Temperature, hygrometry, substrate, luminosity and patience: the keys to success
At the time of the sowing inform you well on the needs for each species because the temperature necessary for germination can vary. For Trachycarpus, a temperature of 20 to 24°C will be sufficient whereas Elaeis guinensis, the oil palm tree will need 38 to 40°C constant and this during a very long period (2 months and half) to germinate correctly. The installation must therefore be up to the task!
The composition of the substrate, the light and the hygrometry rate are other parameters to take into account. Always very light, the substrate will have to be very permeable so that water does not stagnate around the seed. The depth of the pot must also be chosen according to the species because some palms like Lodoicea maldavica have a so-called 'delayed germination'. A long root forms (sometimes for almost a meter) before the bud appears. Don't panic though: these cases are rare and our good old Phoenix will be satisfied with a depth of 2 cm!
After that, everything will be a story of patience because palm trees at the seedling stage are rather long to grow. Don't forget to water them regularly!
