Exotic and slim, it is ideal anywhere in the house, given its lightness and great height. It is always present but without weighing down the eyes. We tell you how to take care of it. It is very difficult in Spain but cheer up that can touch the roof of the house!

BEFORE GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS WITH THE COCONUT TREE

The coconut tree or Cocos nucifera is a tropical plant native to central and southern America, of course adapted to a totally tropical climate. In fact, adaptation to other climates is difficult today outdoors. Indoors, although difficult, it can be properly maintained. We will have a different plant, slender and it will arouse the curiosity of those who see it, when they see the half-buried coconut from which our coconut tree comes out.

ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Temperatures

Taking into account the low latitudes at which it develops, it is laborious and cannot always be maintained as desired in northern areas. It needs heat, sun and humidity. With that we say it all. The heat in a home is not something difficult to keep more or less constant. Its base temperature for growth is at 16ºC or even more, so the 21ºC recommended for the home is a bit fair but they work. Although the coconut tree lives not only on heat.

Light

It needs light, a lot of light. In winter, the days are shortened and many times we do not have enough light in the latitudes in which we move (Iberian Peninsula). If we are not careful with that, the coconut tree may suffer for too short days. There are inventions of all kinds. From mirrors so that the light bounces and hits the less exposed face, to moving it around the house “looking for the sun.” What is certain is that you have to be aware.

Humidity

On the other hand, humidity is another important factor. The heaters in winter dry out the environment a lot, so we will have to use humidifiers, sprays, etc.

Irrigation

The coconut tree needs a moderate-high watering. In winter once a week will be enough and even every 8-10 days. Depending on the pot and substrate chosen. In summer we will increase the frequency every 3 or 4 days.

PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS

• If you notice that the nut (coconut) is getting too dark, you may have too much moisture in the substrate. If this situation lasts too long, the coconut tree will die. Wait for the walnut to dry before watering again
• If you notice dry leaves, the environment will be too hot and dry. A good place to recover the plant from this dryness is the bathroom or kitchen that have moments of high humidity (showers, cooking, etc).
• If the edges of the palms are burned, there is too much sun exposure.

HAVE YOU TRIED GERMINATING A COCONUT? ONLY SUITABLE FOR PATIENT PEOPLE

We are not going to tell you not to try but it is practically impossible. If there are people in Spain (peninsula) who have managed to sow, germinate and have their leafy coconut, please tell us because we do not know of cases and we would love for you to tell us about your experience.