I have a traveling palm in
my living room under the skylights.
Although the stem rises to a very great height, the abundant leaves
never unfold. I have been unable to
find information on this type of palm.
Should I be giving it more or less water or light?
Ravenala often called the Traveler's tree does resemble a palm or banana
plant. It is native to Madagascar
and South American where it receives good light, ample moisture and humidity. You will have to do the best to provide
similar conditions indoors. Try
supplementing the skylight with artificial lights. There are many grow lights or cool fluorescent bulbs that
can be used as indoor spotlights.
Either type of bulb can provide the plant with the needed light and you
with added enjoyment. Keep the
soil evenly moist spring through summer as the plant is actively growing. Allow the soil to dry before watering
during slower periods (usually winter) of growth. Group your traveler's tree with other plants, place shallow
pans of water nearby or set it on pebbles in a saucer filled with water to
increase the humidity. If the
plant has been in the same container for several years it may be time to
transplant. Move the plant to the
next size pot. Carefully loosen
the pot-bound roots and fill with any well-drained potting mix. Adjust your watering schedule as
needed.