Coconut

Coconut belongs to the palm family and is one of the most prolific palms. The coconut's native habitat is the coasts of tropical countries. Such a palm grows rather poorly in indoor conditions and can develop in an apartment for no more than two years. The reason is that the coconut simply loves light and dies without it. Therefore, such a plant grows much better in a conservatory or greenhouse where light regimes and temperature are properly maintained.

The best variety of coconut is rightfully considered Cocos Weddeliana (Weddell's coconut). Its leaves are green, narrow and drooping, and on the other side they are silvery. This plant is small in size. In winter, Cocos Weddeliana is best kept at 18°C, but not lower. The coconut must be transplanted very gently and carefully, since it is extremely sensitive to root damage. However, direct sunlight has a negative effect on it and leads to drying out.

Cocos Nucifera (the coconut palm) is another species that is very popular for decorating interiors. Unlike Cocos Weddeliana, it is fairly large in size. From an early age this plant is notable for its scale and reaches three meters in height even in indoor conditions. At the same time, the growth of such a coconut is fairly slow. The leaves of the coconut palm are long and narrow, but with age they become large and pinnate.

Care tips

The coconut has a number of characteristics. To grow a healthy and strong plant you should follow the tips listed below:

1. Temperature: the coconut palm is a warmth-loving plant from tropical countries where there is plenty of sun and summer all year round. The optimal temperature is 20-23°C. However, during the summer it is better to move the palm to a place where it will not be exposed to direct sunlight. Also, in the hot season you should ensure good ventilation if the plant is kept indoors year-round.

2. Light: the place where the palm will be located should be the brightest, but at the same time provide the plant with diffused light.

3. Watering: during the summer period, from May to September, the palm should be watered abundantly, and with the onset of cold – moderately.

4. Air humidity: coconuts simply love humidity. Therefore they need to be misted very often not only in summer but also in winter. Leaves should be wiped with a damp cloth.

5. Transplanting: coconut palms tolerate transplanting well. They should be repotted when the roots and leaves begin to protrude beyond the pot rim. For repotting you will need soil composed of: 1 part peat base, 2 parts clay-turf, 2 parts leaf-mold humus, some charcoal and 1 part sand.

6. Propagation: coconut palms are propagated by seeds under high humidity and elevated temperature.