How to Make Outdoor Artificial Palm Trees

Palm trees are a lovely addition to any outdoor garden or patio area. An artificial palm tree will last forever and requires no watering. This article will provide tips and steps on making an artificial Princess Palm that you will be proud to display to your guests. And because the styles are unlimited, you will be able to match your palm tree to any decor.

Things You'll Need

• 12" planter pot suitable for outdoor use Liner for pot to cover holes 4' - 6' bamboo pole 2-3" in diameter Rocks, concrete, sand or similar weighted medium to stabilize bamboo pole Silk or plastic palm fronds Palm frond skin or hair like bark covering from the base of a live palm frond Sphagnum moss or other decorative filler

Instructions

How to Make Outdoor Artificial Palm Trees

1. 

   Select the planter pot of your choice and notice if there are watering holes in the bottom. If so, these holes will need to be blocked to prevent leakage of weighted medium.

2. 

   If your pot has holes in the bottom, place a plastic potting liner inside to cover them. You can also use aluminum foil to block the holes.

3. 

   After ensuring the holes will not leak, balance the bamboo pole into the center of the pot and add concrete, sand, stones or any other heavy substance to stabilize the bamboo pole. In this photo concrete was used to keep the pole secured to the pot for easy moving. Allow 24 hours for full drying of concrete. To use concrete, pour dry concrete mix around base of bamboo pole and add enough water to wet thoroughly, lightly stir and allow to dry.

4. 

   When the bamboo pole is secure add palm fronds by sticking them in the hole at the top end of the bamboo pole. There are several types of artificial palm fronds, suitable for outdoor use, available and can be purchased in bunches or individually. This example has a connected bunch of 12-inch fronds in the center and four separate 28-inch fronds around the perimeter. 36-inch individual fronds are also available.

5. Add finishing touches such as twinkle lights or the hair like bark from a live palm tree to hide the area where the fronds and bamboo come together. Add sphagnum moss or other decorative filler to hide the concrete, sand or rock stabilizer.

Tips & Warnings

• While concrete is drying, the bamboo pole can be leaned up against a chair or other object to keep it straight. If your prefer you can prop it in a leaning position.

• Wear gloves when working with concrete to prevent drying of skin. If cutting bamboo to length, use caution and always wear eye protection.

References

• Bamboo Poles for Sale
• Palm fronds from Amazing Green House