A Gardeners Forum Forums Gardening Reference Gardening in 2002 Oreaca or Areaca Palm

Hello I am new here.

I just bought an oreaca palm(that is what the sticker said). I found a spider on it and then a white looking spider thingie. I got them both now I am wondering if I got some sorta insect on it.

I made another boo boo too. I transplanted right away. Then I read a post on here where you shouldn't transplant for 3 weeks. Is there anything that I can do for it to make it more comfortable?

Also how do i care for it if anyone has any websites I can look at it would be appreciated.

I have had a camille dumbcane and some other hanging plant that did have a name on it for about 4 months now and they're not growing quickly but they look healthy.

Thanks Craig

PS Do cats like to chew on these palms?

You probably have an Areca palm. It needs to be in front of a sunny window to do well. Its roots are quite particular about watering. Allow the top quarter of the rootball to dry out and then water it thoroughly. If your local water is on the hard side, switch to filtered, distilled, or rainwater. Use fertilizer at half strength and only when the palm is growing.

Improper light, improper watering, and the accumulation of mineral salts in the soil all contribute to the tips of the fronds turning brown. This is a very common problem with Arecas and a reason why they are not too popular as indoor plants.

Spider mites are a common problem with Arecas. Look for tiny, dust-like particles on the undersides of the fronds. Normal spiders are helpful and can be left alone.

Please let me know if this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Will Creed, Horticulturist
Horticultural Help, NYC
Email: wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com

P.S. You may be interested in my website at www.HorticulturalHelp.com and my Indoor plant Bulletins that I publish monthly.

The Bulletins contain lots of helpful facts and unusual tips for keeping house and office plants alive and well.