Kentia Palm Care

Common Name: Kentia Palm, Sentry Palm, Thatch Leaf Palm
Scientific Name: Howeia Forsteriana
Lighting: Moderate
Watering: Moderate

The Kentia Palm is characterized by a series of arching feather-shaped fronds radiating from small trunks in a dark green color. Kentia Palms are slow growers so do not expect mass growth. On the other end, they are very durable house plants and therefore can be enjoyed for many years.

Kentia (Sentry, Thatch Leaf) Palms are not tolerable to severe dryness or continual over watering. They prefer to be moist much of the time, however do allow the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry before watering again. If frond tips are turning brown and the fronds are droopy, you are probably not watering the plant enough. On the opposite side, if the leaf tips are yellowing then becoming brown, chances are you are over watering the palm. The Kentia, like many palms, is extremely sensitive to chemicals in the water. Therefore be sure to use untreated water for this house plant and all your palms.

The Kentia palm prefers bright, indirect light but will also tolerate lower light levels. In lower light levels the plant's appearance will seem fine; however it just won't quite have the healthy look preferred. If you notice spotting on the upper fronds, the plant may be getting too much bright light, so try and move it to an area with a lower amount of direct sunlight.

Pests are usually not a problem with this house plant. Spider mites may appear. If so, try my home remedy that really hasn't failed me, of spraying the plant twice a day with a soapy dishwater mixture. If that does not work, go to your local gardening center and they can instruct you on which product to use.

Please share you tips on this common houseplant!!