Kentia palm care

Howea forsteriana needs medium light. Check the soil before you water.

This is general care advice. Check the label of your plant. Keep toxic plants away from pets and children.

Care at a glance

Botanical name: Howea forsteriana
Other names: Sentry palm, Paradise palm
Light: Medium light. Put it in low to bright indirect light. It handles shade better than most palms.
Soil check: Every 7 to 12 days in the growing season. The app learns the real time.
Humidity: Medium humidity
Feeding: Feed every 2 months in spring and summer. Do not feed in winter.

How does the soil feel 2 to 3 cm below the top?

Push a finger 2 to 3 cm into the soil. Feel if it is dry, damp or wet.

Dry: no soil sticks to your finger. Water the plant.
Damp: a little soil sticks to your finger. It feels cool. Do not water yet.
Wet: soil sticks to your finger and feels soggy, or you see water. Do not water. Check the drainage.

Do not water on a fixed day. Test the soil first. Read the soil check guide.

Use a well-draining potting soil. Add perlite or sand for drainage.

Brown tips come from dry air or salts in the water. Use rainwater if you can.
The plant grows slowly. Do not repot it often, and use a pot that is only a little larger.
Soft, yellow fronds mean too much water. Let the top 3 cm of soil dry.

Not toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it away from pets that chew plants.