Interesting Article About Cold Tolerant Coconuts * with case studies

[mirandamavrogianni]

LINK TO ARTICLE "CAN A COCONUT PALM TREE THRIVE IN COLD CLIMATES"

 

Can a Coconut Palm Tree Thrive in Cold Climates?

by Matt | Sep 23, 2023 | Common World Trees

The iconic coconut palm tree, with its swaying fronds and tropical charm, could find a home in the midst of chilly winters and frigid mornings. It’s a fascinating concept, considering the symbol of sandy beaches and azure waters standing tall in a colder, less hospitable setting. In this article, we look into the possibility of growing coconut palm trees in cold climates.

The answer to that question does not appear straightforward. Although coconut palms are traditionally drawn to warm tropical climates, there are a few cold-resistant varieties and strategies that enthusiasts have used to achieve their goal in a variety of surprising locations. We’ll go over these variations and techniques in greater detail to shed light on the practicality of cultivating these majestic trees in these climate zones, where the mercury typically falls lower than expected.

If you’re ready to embark on an adventure that challenges conventional wisdom and investigates the boundaries of tropical agriculture, you should take a tour of the world of coconut palm trees and see if they can survive in cold climates. Coconut palms are not uncommon in colder climates, and this article will provide valuable insight into how they can add a touch of exoticness to your backyard or simply pique your interest in nature.

Characteristics of Coconut Palm Trees

The coconut palm tree, scientifically known as Cocos nucifera, stands as an emblem of tropical splendor and resilience. Its characteristics and requirements are a testament to nature’s ingenuity and adaptability. These majestic trees, often found swaying gracefully along coastal landscapes, possess a remarkable set of features and prerequisites that have made them not only a symbol of paradise but also a valuable resource for countless communities around the world.

Key Features and Requirements of Coconut Palm Trees:

1. Graceful Fronds and Iconic Silhouette:

• Coconut palm trees are renowned for their gracefully arching fronds, which fan outwards like nature’s own artwork. The silhouette of a mature coconut palm against a backdrop of azure skies is an iconic image associated with tropical beauty. These fronds can reach lengths of up to 20 feet, adding to the tree’s visual allure.

2. Versatile in Habitat:

• One of the most remarkable characteristics of coconut palm trees is their adaptability to various habitats. They flourish in tropical coastal regions, often thriving in sandy, well-draining soils. However, they can also endure slightly inland in regions with consistent rainfall and proper drainage.

3. Height and Growth Rate:

• Coconut palm trees are known to reach impressive heights, with mature specimens often towering at 60 to 100 feet. Their growth rate is relatively slow compared to some other tree species, with an average of 6 to 12 inches of height gained each year.

4. Nut Production:

• The coconut palm tree’s most famous feature is, of course, its prolific production of coconuts. These iconic fruits have a hard, fibrous shell surrounding a nutritious and hydrating inner kernel. Coconuts are not only a vital food source but also a versatile ingredient used in various culinary and industrial applications.

5. Salt Tolerance:

• One of the remarkable adaptations of coconut palm trees is their ability to tolerate salty coastal conditions. They can absorb seawater through their roots and filter out the salt, making them well-suited for beachfront locations.

6. Sun-Loving Nature:

• Coconut palms thrive in full sunlight. They require at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow and produce fruit optimally. This preference for sunny conditions is one reason why they are prevalent in tropical climates.

7. Temperature Sensitivity:

• While coconut palm trees are associated with warmth, they are susceptible to damage from cold temperatures. They are generally intolerant of frost and prefer a minimum temperature of around 72°F (22°C) to flourish.

8. High Water Requirements:

• Adequate watering is crucial for coconut palm trees, especially during the initial stages of growth. They require consistently moist soil, and irrigation may be necessary during dry spells.

9. Nutrient-Rich Soil:

• Coconut palm trees thrive in well-draining, nutrient-rich soils. Sandy soils are preferred, as they allow for proper drainage, preventing waterlogged roots.

10. Longevity and Productivity:

• These trees are known for their longevity, with some coconut palms living for over a century. Remarkably, they continue to produce coconuts throughout their long lifespan, making them a sustainable resource for communities that rely on them for food and materials.

11. Cultural Significance:

• Beyond their practical uses, coconut palm trees hold immense cultural and religious significance in many tropical regions. They are often considered the “tree of life” and feature prominently in folklore, rituals, and celebrations.

Optimal Growing Conditions

Optimal Growing Conditions for Coconut Palm Trees: Thriving in Nature’s Theater

When it comes to the art of nurturing coconut palm trees, understanding the optimal growing conditions is akin to orchestrating a symphony of natural elements. These majestic trees, renowned for their swaying fronds and bountiful coconuts, are a testament to nature’s exquisite design. To cultivate these icons of tropical allure, one must pay heed to the following composition of ideal climate, temperature, and environmental conditions:

1. Tropical Climate:

• The coconut palm tree is a quintessential denizen of tropical paradises, and it thrives in climates that mirror the postcards of sandy beaches and azure waters. It prefers regions with consistently warm temperatures year-round. These trees are often found flourishing within 20 degrees north and south of the equator, where the tropical sun bathes the landscape.

2. Temperature Range:

• Coconut palm trees are known for their intolerance to cold temperatures. To unlock their true potential, temperatures should ideally remain above 72°F (22°C) year-round. Even brief exposure to frost can cause significant damage to these delicate giants. Thus, they are most at home in areas where winter jackets are a rarity.

3. Sunshine Abundance:

• Sunlight is the elixir of life for coconut palm trees. They crave at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to flourish. These sun worshippers revel in the unfiltered rays of the tropical sun, making them ideal for regions with abundant sunshine.

4. Well-Draining Soil:

• Beneath the sandy shores and coastal landscapes, coconut palm trees thrive in well-draining, sandy soils. This type of soil allows excess water to seep away from the root zone, preventing waterlogged roots, which could otherwise lead to disease and decline.

5. Ample Rainfall:

• While coconut palm trees tolerate occasional dry spells, they do best in regions with consistent rainfall throughout the year. An annual rainfall of 40 to 100 inches (100 to 250 cm) is considered ideal. This regular moisture supply ensures their long-term health and fruit production.

6. Coastal Breezes:

• These tropical wonders are no strangers to coastal life. Coastal regions benefit from the moderating influence of the sea, which helps maintain stable temperatures. Additionally, the gentle coastal breezes provide natural ventilation, preventing the accumulation of stagnant air around the trees.

7. Protection from Strong Winds:

• While coconut palms are resilient, they are not immune to the fury of strong winds, particularly during hurricanes and typhoons. Ideally, they should be planted in locations that offer some protection from such extreme weather events.

8. Salinity Tolerance:

• Coconut palm trees display an impressive ability to tolerate salt. They can absorb seawater through their roots and filter out the salt, which is then excreted through specialized salt glands. This adaptation allows them to thrive along saltwater coastlines.

9. Adequate Spacing:

• Proper spacing between coconut palm trees is essential for optimal growth. They should be planted at least 30 to 40 feet (9 to 12 meters) apart to allow ample room for the expansive fronds to flourish without crowding.

10. Nutrient Management:

• While coconut palm trees are somewhat forgiving of nutrient-poor soils, periodic fertilization can enhance their growth and fruit production. The use of balanced fertilizers can help compensate for any deficiencies in the soil.

In the grand performance of nature, coconut palm trees command the spotlight as symbols of tropical splendor and resourcefulness. Their ideal growing conditions are a harmonious blend of warmth, sunshine, and moisture, and they flourish best when these elements are provided in abundance. To cultivate these majestic trees is to embrace the essence of the tropics, where the coconut palm stands as a testament to nature’s enduring elegance and the human appreciation of its gifts.

Cold Climate Challenges

Cold Climate Challenges: Defying the Frosty Odds

Coconut palm trees, with their sun-kissed fronds and bountiful coconuts, epitomize the tropical dream. However, when these emblematic trees find themselves in colder climates, they face a slew of challenges and obstacles that put their survival to the test. Here, amidst snowflakes and frosty mornings, the resilient coconut palm tree battles against nature’s wintry grip, striving to maintain its allure.

1. Temperature Sensitivity:

• The most formidable adversary coconut palm trees encounter in cold climates is plummeting temperatures. These tropical beauties are inherently intolerant of frost and cold snaps. When the mercury dips below their preferred range of 72°F (22°C), the consequences can be dire. The extreme cold can cause damage to their leaves, stunting their growth and reducing fruit production.

2. Limited Hardiness:

• Unlike some cold-hardy plants that can withstand sub-zero temperatures, coconut palm trees lack the biological mechanisms to cope with extreme cold. Their genetic makeup is geared towards thriving in consistently warm and tropical conditions, making them ill-suited for frost-prone areas.

3. Frost Damage:

• Frost poses a significant threat to coconut palm trees. When ice crystals form on their fronds and delicate root systems, it can lead to cellular damage and dehydration. This damage may not become evident immediately but can accumulate over time, gradually weakening the tree’s overall health.

4. Root Sensitivity:

• Coconut palm tree roots are susceptible to cold-induced stress. As temperatures drop, the roots become less efficient at absorbing water and nutrients from the soil, leading to decreased growth and vitality. In extreme cases, root damage can be irreversible.

5. Slow Growth Recovery:

• Even if a coconut palm tree survives a cold spell, its recovery is a slow and uncertain process. Growth can be severely stunted, and it may take years for the tree to regain its former stature and productivity, if it ever does.

6. Reduced Fruit Production:

• Cold climates are particularly unforgiving when it comes to coconut production. The trees may produce fewer coconuts, and the quality of the fruit can be compromised. This has implications not only for local consumption but also for the economies of regions that rely on coconut exports.

7. Costly Protection Measures:

• To protect coconut palm trees in colder climates, significant investment is required. This may include the installation of heating systems, frost blankets, or even relocating the trees to indoor environments during winter. Such measures are not only costly but also labor-intensive.

8. Limited Range Expansion:

• The challenges posed by cold climates limit the natural range expansion of coconut palm trees. As temperatures in some regions shift due to climate change, attempts to cultivate these trees in new areas may face an uphill battle, with success far from guaranteed.

In the face of these formidable cold climate challenges, coconut palm trees are a testament to nature’s tenacity. While they may struggle in colder regions, the determination to defy the odds and flourish in the most unlikely of places is a testament to their enduring appeal. It is a reminder that, even in the harshest conditions, nature’s wonders can persist, offering a glimmer of tropical paradise amidst the frost.

Cold-Hardy Coconut Palm Varieties

Picture source: palmtalk.org

Cold-Hardy Coconut Palm Varieties: Nature’s Resilient Surprises

When the allure of tropical paradise beckons in colder regions, the quest to cultivate coconut palm trees becomes an intriguing challenge. These iconic trees, renowned for their swaying fronds and bountiful coconuts, typically thrive in warm, frost-free climes. However, horticultural enthusiasts and researchers have uncovered specific cold-resistant coconut palm varieties that defy the odds and offer a glimmer of the tropics even in the chilliest locales. Here, we shed light on these resilient botanical marvels:

1. Malayan Dwarf Coconut (Cocos nucifera ‘Malayan Dwarf’):

• The Malayan Dwarf Coconut is a pint-sized powerhouse in the world of cold-hardy coconut palm varieties. It stands as a testament to nature’s adaptability, with the ability to withstand temperatures as low as 30°F (-1°C). This diminutive yet robust palm tree reaches heights of 20 to 30 feet, making it suitable for compact gardens or even large pots. Its small stature doesn’t compromise its coconut production, as it yields an abundance of fruit prized for its sweet, refreshing water.

2. Maypan Coconut (Cocos nucifera ‘Maypan’):

• The Maypan Coconut palm is a hybrid variety developed specifically to combat cold temperatures while maintaining the classic coconut palm aesthetics. With a tolerance for temperatures dipping to 32°F (0°C), it has garnered attention in regions where frost is a seasonal visitor. Maypan palms exhibit a robust growth habit, with fronds that can reach up to 20 feet in length. They are also known for their prolific coconut production, making them a valuable addition to cold climate gardens.

3. Fiji Dwarf Coconut (Cocos nucifera ‘Fiji Dwarf’):

• As its name suggests, the Fiji Dwarf Coconut hails from the tropical paradise of Fiji but has demonstrated an impressive ability to withstand colder conditions. This variety can endure temperatures as low as 32°F (0°C) and is recognized for its compact size, making it suitable for smaller gardens or container cultivation. Despite its diminutive stature, it delivers an ample supply of coconuts, providing a taste of the tropics even in chilly environments.

4. Cape Verde Coconut (Cocos nucifera ‘Cape Verde’):

• Native to the islands of Cape Verde off the west coast of Africa, this coconut palm variety has earned its cold-hardy reputation through years of adaptation. It can endure temperatures hovering around 32°F (0°C) for short durations. The Cape Verde Coconut boasts a distinctive appearance with a tall, slender trunk and elegant fronds, making it an ornamental choice for cold climate landscapes.

5. Macapuno Coconut (Cocos nucifera ‘Macapuno’):

• The Macapuno Coconut, sometimes referred to as the “dessert coconut,” is known for its unique, jelly-like coconut flesh. While not exclusively cold-resistant, it has demonstrated an ability to survive in cooler temperatures when provided with proper care and protection. This variety is prized for its delicious, sweet coconuts, adding a delectable twist to cold climate cultivation.

6. Cold Protection Measures:

• It’s essential to note that even these cold-resistant coconut palm varieties may require some degree of protection in exceptionally harsh winter conditions. Techniques such as wrapping the trunk with insulation, using heat lamps, or covering the tree with frost blankets can help safeguard them during cold snaps.

Strategies for Protecting Coconut Palm Trees in Cold Climates

Strategies for Protecting Coconut Palm Trees in Cold Climates: Nurturing Tropical Gems in Chilly Environments

Cultivating coconut palm trees in colder climates may seem like a horticultural impossibility, but with the right strategies and care, it’s a challenge that can be met. These iconic trees, known for their swaying fronds and bountiful coconuts, can thrive even in regions where winter frost is a regular visitor. Here, we unveil a set of expert strategies and techniques to shield your coconut palm trees from the chill and ensure their survival:

**1. Variety Selection: Begin your cold climate coconut palm journey by selecting cold-resistant varieties such as the Malayan Dwarf, Maypan, Fiji Dwarf, Cape Verde, or Macapuno. These varieties are better equipped to withstand lower temperatures.

**2. Strategic Planting: Plant your coconut palms in a sheltered location that offers protection from cold winds and frost pockets. Consider areas near buildings, walls, or natural windbreaks to create a microclimate conducive to their growth.

**3. Proper Soil Drainage: Ensure your coconut palm trees are planted in well-draining soil. Soil that retains excess moisture can lead to root rot, which is exacerbated by cold conditions. Amending the soil with organic matter can improve drainage.

**4. Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the tree to insulate the roots and retain soil warmth. Mulch also helps prevent soil temperature fluctuations.

**5. Heat Sources: Utilize outdoor heat sources such as heat lamps, frost blankets, or even Christmas lights wrapped around the trunk during extremely cold spells. These sources provide localized warmth to protect the tree.

**6. Tree Wrapping: Wrap the trunk of your coconut palm with burlap or frost cloth to shield it from freezing temperatures. Ensure that the wrapping is secure but not too tight to allow for airflow.

**7. Irrigation Management: Reduce watering during the colder months to prevent waterlogged soil, which can exacerbate cold stress. Water the trees early in the day to allow time for excess moisture to evaporate before nightfall.

**8. Windbreaks: Install temporary or permanent windbreaks, such as windbreak fences or tall shrubs, to shield your coconut palm trees from strong winds that can strip away heat and moisture.

**9. Container Cultivation: For extreme cold climates, consider growing coconut palm trees in large containers or pots that can be brought indoors during winter. Ensure the pots have proper drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.

**10. Pruning: Prune any damaged or dead fronds to reduce stress on the tree during cold periods. However, avoid excessive pruning, as the fronds provide some protection from cold temperatures.

**11. Monitoring and Patience: Keep a vigilant eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to implement protective measures when cold spells are predicted. Remember that coconut palm trees may recover slowly from cold damage, so exercise patience and continue care.

**12. Fertilization: Avoid fertilizing coconut palm trees during the winter months, as they are less active during this time. Resume fertilization in the spring to support their growth.

Case Studies

Case Studies: Unveiling the Triumph of Tropical Dreams in Chilly ClimateS

Real-life stories of successful coconut palm cultivation in colder regions serve as compelling testaments to human ingenuity and nature’s resilience. These case studies inspire hope, demonstrating that with the right strategies and unwavering determination, the allure of the tropics can be transplanted into the heart of colder environments. Let’s explore a few remarkable tales of coconut palm triumph:

1. Coastal Maine, USA:

• In the northeastern United States, where harsh winters are the norm, a determined gardener in coastal Maine decided to embark on a coconut palm cultivation experiment. Using a Malayan Dwarf Coconut variety known for its cold resistance, the gardener carefully selected a sheltered spot and utilized heat lamps and mulch to protect the young tree during the coldest months. The result? Over the years, the palm has not only survived but also produced coconuts. While they may not rival those from the tropics in size, they offer a taste of paradise in an otherwise chilly climate.

2. Dublin, Ireland:

• Ireland’s temperate maritime climate hardly resembles a tropical paradise, yet one innovative gardener in Dublin managed to cultivate a thriving coconut palm tree. By planting the tree in a south-facing garden with a microclimate conducive to warmth, employing windbreaks, and wrapping the trunk during winter, this gardener successfully defied the odds. The coconut palm, although smaller in stature than its tropical counterparts, graces the Irish garden with its iconic fronds and occasional coconuts.

3. The Netherlands:

• The Netherlands, with its renowned tulip fields and windmills, might seem an unlikely place for coconut palm cultivation. However, Dutch horticultural enthusiasts have embraced the challenge with open arms. By selecting cold-resistant varieties like the Maypan Coconut and providing protection during harsh winters, coconut palm trees now thrive in Dutch gardens and botanical centers. These resilient palms remind locals and visitors alike that dreams of the tropics can become a reality, even in Europe’s cooler climes.

4. Coastal British Columbia, Canada:

• On the western coast of Canada, where the Pacific Ocean moderates temperatures, adventurous gardeners have taken on the task of growing coconut palm trees. Coastal British Columbia provides a relatively mild climate compared to the rest of Canada, and this unique microclimate has proven conducive to coconut palm cultivation. By planting the palms in well-draining soil, insulating their trunks, and providing adequate warmth during winter, Canadians are now enjoying the sight of these iconic trees amidst their coastal landscapes.

5. Southern France:

• The South of France, known for its Mediterranean climate, has long been a hotspot for exotic plant enthusiasts. Here, coconut palm trees have found a welcoming home. With mild winters and abundant sunshine, the region offers an ideal environment for these tropical wonders. Gardeners have successfully cultivated various coconut palm varieties, including the Fiji Dwarf and Malayan Dwarf, in French gardens and even on the French Riviera.

These case studies illuminate the resilience of both nature and human determination. They showcase the art of adapting to challenging conditions, using innovation and strategic planning to coax the beauty of the tropics from the chill of colder climates. While the coconuts produced in these regions may not rival those from the equator in size and quantity, they offer a taste of paradise and serve as living testaments to the indomitable spirit of gardening enthusiasts worldwide.

[RJ]

Oddly enough in this article they picture a JxS that is owned by Gary Levene  (sp) who is a member here. 
 

I would certainly be interested to see this coconut in coastal Maine. 🤔

[Allen]

This looks AI generated

[Las Palmas Norte]

On 1/28/2024 at 8:28 AM, mirandamavrogianni said:

4. Coastal British Columbia, Canada:

• On the western coast of Canada, where the Pacific Ocean moderates temperatures, adventurous gardeners have taken on the task of growing coconut palm trees. Coastal British Columbia provides a relatively mild climate compared to the rest of Canada, and this unique microclimate has proven conducive to coconut palm cultivation. By planting the palms in well-draining soil, insulating their trunks, and providing adequate warmth during winter, Canadians are now enjoying the sight of these iconic trees amidst their coastal landscapes.

 

That's the biggest load of malarky I've seen in a longggg time. WOW.

[ChicagoPalma]

6 hours ago, Las Palmas Norte said:

 

That's the biggest load of malarky I've seen in a longggg time. WOW.

Yeah, but coconut palm protection is simple, yet expensive. Large polycarbonate greenhouse with heating system, also heating-wire around the rootball. Would be possible in my area since it was fairly  a very mild winter except for a week's time of horrible cold. Otherwise, nothing really, this year spring is so early, tulips are already sprouting in January instead of late march.

[RJ]

27 minutes ago, ChicagoPalma said:

Yeah, but coconut palm protection is simple, yet expensive. Large polycarbonate greenhouse with heating system, also heating-wire around the rootball. Would be possible in my area since it was fairly  a very mild winter except for a week's time of horrible cold. Otherwise, nothing really, this year spring is so early, tulips are already sprouting in January instead of late march.

Until you get a February/March like 2014 . When I lived up north I didn’t see high temps get much above zero until we’ll into March. By that time it had gone on for over a month. 
 

I moved two years later ,  had enough of it. Believe it or not that was the second time I did that. Never again.

[ChicagoPalma]

2 hours ago, RJ said:

Until you get a February/March like 2014 . When I lived up north I didn’t see high temps get much above zero until we’ll into March. By that time it had gone on for over a month. 
 

I moved two years later ,  had enough of it. Believe it or not that was the second time I did that. Never again.

Eh, times were different, and now with this whole global warming stuff which I don't entirely believe in but it seems like its happening, I'm supposed to be in 50s tomorrow. So yeah, but otherwise nothing's changed, cicadas are going to go rampant this year, mother nature is going to crap on us with another tornado outbreak again this year, just the usual.

[RJ]

5 hours ago, ChicagoPalma said:

Eh, times were different, and now with this whole global warming stuff which I don't entirely believe in but it seems like its happening, I'm supposed to be in 50s tomorrow. So yeah, but otherwise nothing's changed, cicadas are going to go rampant this year, mother nature is going to crap on us with another tornado outbreak again this year, just the usual.

The cicada outbreak this year happened some ~230 years ago just like this year. It’ll happen again, but everyone reading this message will be long gone and so will generations of their offspring.  I’m only talking 10 years ago. That’s less then a blink of an eye in climate terms, global warming or not 🫣

[OC2Texaspalmlvr]

On 1/31/2024 at 10:45 AM, Allen said:

This looks AI generated

I 2nd that , coconut producing tree in Maine and not 1 PT member knows of seems down right far fetched. 

T J 

[mirandamavrogianni]

On 1/31/2024 at 6:33 PM, RJ said:

Oddly enough in this article they picture a JxS that is owned by Gary Levene  (sp) who is a member here. 
 

I would certainly be interested to see this coconut in coastal Maine. 🤔

me too! hard to believe but if it’s in a greenhouse then maybe??

[mirandamavrogianni]

On 1/31/2024 at 6:45 PM, Allen said:

This looks AI generated

It might be, this article is from has an author which is linked at the top, you can ask him if it’s AI generated or not.. 

[mirandamavrogianni]

On 2/1/2024 at 2:19 AM, ChicagoPalma said:

Yeah, but coconut palm protection is simple, yet expensive. Large polycarbonate greenhouse with heating system, also heating-wire around the rootball. Would be possible in my area since it was fairly  a very mild winter except for a week's time of horrible cold. Otherwise, nothing really, this year spring is so early, tulips are already sprouting in January instead of late march.

Thank you for providing more value to this otherwise unnecessary comment above. 

A polycarbonate greenhouse seems like an interesting idea, I have yet to find any coconuts shown in a greenhouse other than sprouts though. However I have seen the coconuts protected with wires and such. 

[mirandamavrogianni]

7 hours ago, OC2Texaspalmlvr said:

I 2nd that , coconut producing tree in Maine and not 1 PT member knows of seems down right far fetched. 

T J 

it could be true if it’s in a greenhouse

[Las Palmas Norte]

On 1/28/2024 at 8:28 AM, mirandamavrogianni said:

...Canadians are now enjoying the sight of these iconic trees amidst their coastal landscapes.

LMAO !!! 🤣

[maesy]

Coconut trees in western europe! 😅 😆 😂

Yes there is one growing in central Switzerland. I have brought it from the Philippines in 2008. But its growing in a 4000m2 green house with a tropical climate. That's the only way possible in our cold countries. 

What they talk about are most likly coccoid palms such as parajubaeas, syagrus, butias, jubaeas, juania (irland) and their hybrids. 

[ChicagoPalma]

Yeah I’d just get a queen or a mule and you got something similar.

[PalmatierMeg]

Uh, no.

Build the climate controlled conservatory first.

[PalmatierMeg]

On 2/2/2024 at 3:24 AM, OC2Texaspalmlvr said:

I 2nd that , coconut producing tree in Maine and not 1 PT member knows of seems down right far fetched. 

T J 

Even if a coconut miraculously survived in Maine it would never successfully set fruit. Producing viable fruit takes two years. Summers in Maine are too short and likely too cool to support fruiting. Even if the palm actually flowered (unlikely) and set tiny fruit (also unlikely) any remaining crop will abort long before ripening

Unless you've spent a winter traveling the US you have little idea how brutal the cold that descends from the arctic can be. I have multiple varieties of Malayans, a Maypan, Fiji Dwarf, Dwarf Red spicatas, several Talls. Are all those Malayans and Dwarfs cold hardier than "regular" coconuts? Absolutely not. "Coldhardy" and "Coconut" is an oxymoron.

[RJ]

14 minutes ago, PalmatierMeg said:

Even if a coconut miraculously survived in Maine it would never successfully set fruit. Producing viable fruit takes two years. Summers in Maine are too short and likely too cool to support fruiting. Even if the palm actually flowered (unlikely) and set tiny fruit (also unlikely) any remaining crop will abort long before ripening

Unless you've spent a winter traveling the US you have little idea how brutal the cold that descends from the arctic can be. I have multiple varieties of Malayans, a Maypan, Fiji Dwarf, Dwarf Red spicatas, several Talls. Are all those Malayans and Dwarfs cold hardier than "regular" coconuts? Absolutely not. "Coldhardy" and "Coconut" is an oxymoron.

I think I read that Coconuts in Bermuda don't set fruit because it's too cool.  If that's the case then Maine is definitely a no go. 

[PalmatierMeg]

Just now, RJ said:

I think I read that Coconuts in Bermuda don't set fruit because it's too cool.  If that's the case then Maine is definitely a no go. 

I believe it. Bermuda is not tropical and is way north of the Caribbean. I've also read on PT that on HI coconut palms grown above 1,000' altitude will survive but never produce seeds. 

[OC2Texaspalmlvr]

3 hours ago, PalmatierMeg said:

Coldhardy" and "Coconut" is an oxymoron.

🤣

[ChicagoPalma]

This all sums up other cocoid palms or hybrids are the way to go.

[Foxpalms]

I wonder why they sate the cape Verde coconuts are slightly hardier as it's far from cool there in the winter at 16-14N latitude.

Edited February 5 by Foxpalms

[Foxpalms]

Definitely no in ground coconuts in western Europe besides islands. I put my potted ones out from around May to sometime in October. They could stay out slightly longer but I prefer not to stunt the growth. The only place on mainland Europe a coconut stands a chance growing would be in a very protected spot in Gibraltar. I have a few coconut look a likes such as beccariophoenix alfredii and jubaeopsis caffra in pots that I leave outside year round at 51N but there's no chance a coconut would make it. The furthest north they would stand a chance would be Ponta Delgada.

[BeyondTheGarden]

I don't know why all you negative nancy's think there's no such thing as cold hardy coconuts.  That's just a conspiracy theory generated by people in Florida because they don't want us to have the nice things they have down there. 

[Foxpalms]

6 hours ago, PalmatierMeg said:

I believe it. Bermuda is not tropical and is way north of the Caribbean. I've also read on PT that on HI coconut palms grown above 1,000' altitude will survive but never produce seeds. 

The koppen climate is supposedly tropical rainforest climate but just scraping it. Very close to being subtropical. The coconuts there always seem damaged by the winters slightly. Whilst on the canaries (the furthest north I have seen them produce viable fruits) in good microclimates the ones that receive irrigation don't get damaged and produce viable fruits. Winter temps in Bermuda compared to Tenerife. Those temps in Tenerife seem to be around the minimum required for them to produce viable coconuts. 

Edited February 5 by Foxpalms

[ChicagoPalma]

You know, I have came across a couple hybrids of butia x cocos nucifera. They are have been grown recently, Pat Shafer might have grown them. I have read some palmtalk topics about it, the most recent one was Buticocos Nathanii, which is butia x cocos nucifera f1. These hybrids have been around for almost 14-15 years since 2009-2010. Im not exactly sure how they look, there aren't many pictures, but hopefully we can create the holy grail of cocoid palms possibly by having more recent people help out with the creation and documentation. If I get a mature butia, I would try to participate in this.

[Silas_Sancona]

23 hours ago, Foxpalms said:

The koppen climate is supposedly tropical rainforest climate but just scraping it. Very close to being subtropical. The coconuts there always seem damaged by the winters slightly. Whilst on the canaries (the furthest north I have seen them produce viable fruits) in good microclimates the ones that receive irrigation don't get damaged and produce viable fruits. Winter temps in Bermuda compared to Tenerife. Those temps in Tenerife seem to be around the minimum required for them to produce viable coconuts. 

While the article ..or whatever it is... is totally laughable,  the idea that coconuts can't produce seeds / fruit/ nutz above 1K ft in elevation gives me a chuckle..  Such an idea may apply in some areas, but not necessarily all areas of the globe..  Found and posted street view shots of specimens w/ fruit hangin on them around Lake Chapala in Jalisco, Mex. ..above 5K ft.

A couple finds i'd forgot to include in a different post..  Location is a tiny town on the South side of the Lake.. Above 5k ft..  Look plump, ...n' likely viable to my eyes..

While they won't grow outdoors in cold areas ( Sorry " article "..  ) i do wonder if specimens from this area might extend the " survive and fruit " line just a tad deeper into uppermost Z9, outside of Flerr' a dah...





 

[Banana Belt]

On 2/5/2024 at 4:16 PM, Silas_Sancona said:

Lake Chapala in Jalisco, Mex. ..above 5K ft.

That would be a good location to try and cross Cocos nuciferass with Jubaea.  If it worked, the market for the Cocos X Jubaea would be HUGE, I would want one or two for sure.

[PalmatierMeg]

Just this past week I've seen at least two instances of AI hoaxes/scams show up on PT: this one and the palm/cycad photo medley. This is only the beginning as AI meddlers have go at fraud, deceit and more scams because they have nothing of worth to contribute.

[Silas_Sancona]

55 minutes ago, Banana Belt said:

That would be a good location to try and cross Cocos nuciferass with Jubaea.  If it worked, the market for the Cocos X Jubaea would be HUGE, I would want one or two for sure.

Lake Chapala is a very interesting place area for sure..  Coconuts, Royal Poinciana, tropical Mistletoe, and Italian Cypress all growing in the same neighborhoods..

On the map below, you can see how " quickly " one ascends from lake level, where the " closer up " picture of the shorter, fruiting Coconuts are located ( Petatan, just above 5Kft )  to above 6K ft  ...less than 5 miles due south in Michoacan.

Doubt there are Coconuts up there ( ..but might look  around anyway )  but, probably within an ideal area for Jubaea  ...if it isn't too hot / humid / wet during their summer rainy season, even at that elevation.   I've walked longer distances so,  ...if someone did grow a few Jubes  " up "  there,  one could move  pollen -from either palm, to the other-  quite easily.  An interesting thought when considering attempting a cross.. Don't have to go far to try it.  🤔

Hard to see in overhead shots when looking around other towns along this side of the lake to the left but, found a bunch more " younger " coconuts peeking above walls / trees / homes  in neighborhoods i looked over. Image data in some areas is updated ( 2022 / 23 ) while dated ( 2013 - 16  in ) others.




Fyi.. A shot or two of trees covered in the " tropical " mistletoe i'd mentioned.  Species is likely  Psittacanthus calyculantus   ...though it's hard to be 100% sure without much more detailed shots.

Is the " most likely sp. to occur in that area however.  Overall range comes relatively close to AZ ( 1 observation recorded from Ciudad Obregon, S. Sonora, Mex. Photographed in Dec. of '23 )  Bet it grows in the foothill areas just to the southeast in / around Alamos ... and / or north of there, closer to Hermosillo. 






iNat data: https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/278953-Psittacanthus-calyculatus

[Banana Belt]

47 minutes ago, PalmatierMeg said:

Just this past week I've seen at least two instances of AI hoaxes/scams show up on PT: this one and the palm/cycad photo medley. This is only the beginning as AI meddlers have go at fraud, deceit and more scams because they have nothing of worth to contribute.

Yep, and that why i go diving, Under the Sea in an Octopus garden in the shade.

 

 

[SeanK]

On 2/4/2024 at 7:50 PM, BeyondTheGarden said:

I don't know why all you negative nancy's think there's no such thing as cold hardy coconuts.  That's just a conspiracy theory generated by people in Florida because they don't want us to have the nice things they have down there. 

Hey man, I used to see CIDP while watching "Hogan's Heroes", so I know 1940s Germany was warmer than today.