How to Grow Saw Palmetto

The Saw Palmetto, a type of palm tree, grows naturally in pinelands. It is a drought tolerant plant which thrives best in dry flatwoods, scrubs and dunes. This slow growing shrub grows to 10-feet tall. It has sharp thorns on stalk and trunk. The Saw Palmetto provides shelter and food for snakes, skunks, birds, deer, lizards and raccoons. Seeds are gathered from this plant and used as an herbal remedy. Honey is produced as well and is highly sought after.

Things You'll Need

• Garden shovel
• Gloves

Instructions

1. Choose a location that has dry, well draining soil. The soil must be high in quartz and fine grained. The Saw Palmetto grows best in high heat yet also survives in short frosts. The tree grows well in shade or sun.

2. Plan on planting the seeds after the summer rains. Saturated soils can retard early growth and flooding can prevent root establishment.

3. Soak the seeds in warm water for at least 24 hours. Soaking enhances the germination process and helps the seeds sprout quicker.

4. Plant the seeds in the ground just below the surface. Often times the seeds pass through animal digestive systems and take root when the palm is out in the wilderness exposed to wildlife.

5. Water the newly planted seeds regularly, but not too much as they are a very drought tolerant plant. It grows well in dry ground. Shoots emerge from the seeds 30 to 60 days after planting, but optimal germination is observed up to 6 months.

Tips & Warnings

• Black bears and deers feed on the fruit of the Saw Palmetto. The Saw Palmetto is difficult to kill once it is established.

• Be aware of rattle snakes which sometimes curl-up into the Saw Palmetto looking for rats and mice. The Saw Palmetto is difficult to transplant so be sure to grow it where you want it.