Kansas, known for its hot summers and cold winters, is not the ideal place for growing tropical palm trees. Most palm varieties will die when planted outside in Kansas. Some cold hardy varieties with winter protection can survive in the Southern most part of Kansas. Though most tropical palm varieties will need be planted in a pot and brought indoors during colder months.
Kansas USDA Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zone Range: 5b-7a
Locations best for palm growth:
- Wichita – USDA zones 6a-7a
- Independence – USDA zone 6b-7a
Refer to this hardiness map to identify which palms can be grown in your area of Kansas. The state’s climate does not support palm growth in most areas.
Kansas Cold Hardy Palms
Tropical palms won’t survive Kansas winters, but certain cold hardy palm species can survive a Kansas winter if properly winterized.
Chinese Windmill Palms: The most cold tolerant palm tree, windmill palms can survive brief temperatures as low as 5 degrees F when mature. Protect small plants from hard freezes.
Needle Palms: The most cold hardy palm in existence, needle palms can withstand temps in the negatives of degrees Fahrenheit. A clump-forming type of palm with feathery leaves, needle palms grow slowly but acclimate well over time to cold if insulated properly during deep winter.
Saw Palmetto Palm: A cousin to the needle palm, this palmetto can withstand temperatures down to 0 degrees F.
While these palms can survive in Kansas, they may not withstand exceptionally harsh winters.
Winter Protection
Choosing the right location is key for palm survival in Kansas
- Place palms in south-facing areas near building foundations or concrete walls for warmth and wind protection.
- Plant near natural heat retainers like boulders or rocky landscapes that store solar heat during the day.
- Position palms near heat-absorbing structures like brick patios or asphalt driveways.
- Green house enclosures can create suitable conditions during winter months as well.
Use frost cloth for protection
- Wrap trunks in burlap and stuff with leaves or straw to protect the palm plant.
- Bind fronds together and cover the plant with breathable frost cloth, leaving the top open for ventilation.
Growing Palms Indoors
If you love tropical plants and palms but you live in Kansas not all hope is lost. Planting tropical palms in pots allows for plants to be brought indoors during colder months.
Palms can be grown in large pots outdoors or on patios during summer and moved indoors during severe winters.
Here are the best indoor palm varieties to consider planting:
- Kentia Palm Tree
- Areca Palm
- Lady Palm
- Chinese Fan Palm
- Majesty Palm
- Sago Palm
Conclusion
Only a few cold hardy varieties of palm could potentially grow outdoors in the Southern most part of Kansas if proper planning is made. Otherwise, your best bet to growing tropical palms in Kansas is to grow them in pots to be moved outside during warmer months and inside during colder months.