I purchased 2 PC's about 12 months ago. Both were about 4 feet high with a spread 2-3 feet, with very nice leaves. By early 2015 the leaves were brown and looked dead. At this time (August 2015) there is new growth in each plant about 9 inches high in the centre of the plant. Have I over / under watered. Do the outer leaves die off each year. Should I protect them from frost etc etc. I have placed both plants as centre pieces in my south facing back garden. Temperatures can go to -10 / -15c. Or as high as 30c. What should I do to protect them, how much water should they take etc. What feed do they need. This novice Scotsman welcomes your advice.
Protect them from frost below -5°C. That's what's done the damage. Actually, the next 2 winters, protect from all frost completely, until they have recovered their vigour from the last winter's setback. But to be honest, growing Phoenix canariensis outdoors in Scotland is a non-starter. If you want a palm, get Trachycarpus fortunei.
Phoenix canariensis is not suited for Scotland....it survives also -10°, but for one night and with daily temperature arising above +10°....it comes from Canary Islands, can't be hardy as Trachycarpus fortunei
