How to Take Care of a Coconut Tree

Experts believe coconut trees originated in the South Pacific.

Coconut palms are sturdy trees that can grow to 80 feet tall and live for 70 to 80 years. While the trees aren't fussy about the type of soil they're planted in, they require an environment with generous amounts of heat and sunshine. As long as you see to your coconut tree's basic needs and check on it periodically, it should grow just fine.

Things You'll Need

• Palm formula fertilizer
• Small saw
• pH testing kit

Instructions

1. Put the coconut tree in an area where it will receive full sunlight. Coconut palms require unrelieved sunlight to thrive.

2. Ensure the tree is in warm surroundings with a minimum average temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Keep the tree well watered, as coconut palms usually grow in areas with 30 to 50 inches of rainfall a year.

4. Plant the tree in soil with a pH of 5.0 to 8.0. Test the soil occasionally to verify pH levels remain in the proper range.

5. Treat the soil around the coconut tree with a fertilizer formulated especially for palms. Refresh the fertilizer every two to three months to help prevent nutritional deficiencies.

6. Maximize the tree's coconut production by keeping the leaves healthy and trimming away dead fronds. Cut off each brown frond at its base, using a small saw.

Tips & Warnings

• Coconut palms do not thrive in areas that regularly experience temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

References

• University of Florida: Coconut Palm
• South Pacific Commission: Coconut
• USDA: Coconut Palm Plant Profile
• USDA: Unraveling the Origins of the Coconut Tree