Several years ago I became interested in the concept of cold-hardy palms. I lived in Florida for a few years. When I moved away from the balmy zone 9 climate of central Florida I suddenly found that palm trees brought a sense of relaxation and peace to me. So I started researching cold hardy palms. I found out that several varieties are cold hardy. However, with the exception of Rhapidophyllum hystrix (Needle Palm), none are indicated as cold-hardy in a zone 6 climate. I happen to live in Martinsburg, West Virginia.
So several years ago I found a copy of Palms Won't Grow Here and Other Myths: Warm Climate Plants for Cooler Areas by David A. Francko. He presents the argument that several subtropical species of plants (including some palm trees) can be grown in colder regions with the proper siting and winter protection. After reading that book (rather voraciously and several times I might add) I picked up a few cold-hardy palms online. So began my love affair with cold-hardy palms.
Recently I moved into a house with my partner. Now, with the availability of outside planting space, I begin my adventure into growing cold-hardy palms. Will they survive? Will they thrive? Only time will tell.
PolarPalm
