Best Fertiliser for Kentia Palms in Australia

Kentia Palms (Howea forsteriana) are elegant, slow-growing palms native to Lord Howe Island. Whether grown indoors as statement plants or outdoors in coastal gardens, they benefit from the right fertiliser to maintain lush, green fronds. This guide explains what nutrients Kentia Palms need, when to feed them, and the best fertiliser options in Australia.

Nutritional Needs of Kentia Palms

Kentia Palms are not heavy feeders, but regular fertilising helps prevent yellowing fronds and supports steady growth. The key nutrients include:

Nitrogen: Encourages healthy green foliage.
Phosphorus: Supports strong root development.
Potassium: Improves frond strength and resilience.
Magnesium: Prevents leaf yellowing — a common issue in indoor palms.

Feeding Frequency in Australia:

Indoors: Every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer, less in winter.
Outdoors: Two to three times a year — spring, mid-summer, and early autumn.

Soil Tip: Always grow Kentia Palms in free-draining soil or quality indoor potting mix. Nutrients are better absorbed when drainage is good.

119041210_2663812570598982_8873903032510069422_n (1)

54511331_581117052365429_3106727689305440845_n (1)

How to Fertilise Kentia Palms

Application methods vary depending on whether your palm is indoors or outdoors. Here’s how to fertilise correctly:

Indoors: Use a diluted liquid fertiliser for gentle, consistent feeding. Pour evenly across the soil surface, avoiding the crown of the palm.
Outdoors: Scatter slow-release or apply liquid fertiliser around the base of the palm, focusing on the drip line where roots are active.
Water in well: After feeding, water thoroughly to help nutrients penetrate the soil and prevent fertiliser burn.
Check for deficiencies: Pale or yellow leaves may indicate low magnesium or nitrogen — feed accordingly.

Recommended Fertilisers:

CompleteGrow Indoor Plant Food Concentrate — ideal for potted Kentia Palms indoors, keeping fronds dark green.
CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20 Liquid Fertiliser — best for outdoor Kentia Palms, providing balanced nutrients for steady growth.

Climate Note: In cooler Australian zones (like Victoria or Tasmania), reduce fertilising during winter when palms enter a semi-dormant phase.

467417493_18054807298925324_9012475601799089309_n (1)

462674630_18033454751224206_9135593698389006080_n (1)

Aftercare & Fertilising FAQs

Fertilising works best when combined with good watering and placement. Indoor palms need humidity and light, while outdoor palms prefer sheltered, coastal-style conditions.

FAQs:

Q1: What is the best fertiliser for Kentia Palms indoors?
A: A liquid feed such as CompleteGrow Indoor Plant Food Concentrate is perfect for maintaining leaf colour without overfeeding.

Q2: How often should I fertilise Kentia Palms outdoors?
A: Two to three times a year is enough — in spring, summer, and early autumn.

Q3: Why are my Kentia Palm leaves yellow?
A: This is often due to magnesium deficiency or overwatering. Feeding with a balanced fertiliser usually corrects it.

Q4: Can I use lawn fertiliser on Kentia Palms?
A: No — lawn fertilisers are too high in nitrogen and can damage palm roots.

Q5: Do Kentia Palms need fertiliser in winter?
A: No. Fertilising in winter is unnecessary in temperate regions. Wait until spring growth resumes.