Wildlife value of Kentia Palm — an unexpected bonus

I planted Kentia Palm primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. association with warmth and holiday destinations worldwide seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.

I grow it in a large decorative pot as a patio centrepiece which allows me to watch the activity up close. fastest growth during the warmest summer months is the most active period for wildlife visits. feeding with a palm-specific slow-release fertiliser in spring is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. slow recovery from transplant shock when moved as large specimens is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.