Plant description
Η Kentia is one of the most beautiful plants for interior decoration. It comes from Lord Howe Island, northeast of Australia. On this tropical island centipedes grow in nature. Her strong presence attracts attention. It's sleek and airy and will set a tropical and dignified tone to any setting. Ideal for both your home and business premises. Kentia has a slender main trunk from which long stems with palm-like leaves begin. Its growth is slow and it can stay in the same pot for a long time. Although kentias are quite expensive, they are among the hardiest and most adaptable indoor plants.
Growing conditions - Plant care
It grows in bright places but without coming into contact with the sun's rays where its leaves can burn. If the spot where it is located is very bright then it will grow quickly and take on a more compact shape. The ideal orientation, in terms of lighting, is near a north or east window. It cannot withstand cold currents, very low temperatures and frost in general. Avoid letting its leaves rest on windows when the temperature outside is very low.
The soil should be light, contain perlite to retain moisture and have very good drainage.
Water only when the soil has started to dry. The frequency and amount of water should vary according to the seasons as the plants themselves need more or less water depending on environmental conditions such as temperature or humidity. If your soil looks wet, do not water it. But water if you feel the soil is dry. Water until the water starts to come out on the saucer of the pot, but you must always empty it so that the roots of the plant do not rot.
Fertilization from March to early October will help a lot in the growth of the kentia.
Hedgehogs, like all palm trees, are not pruned because their shape and growth do not allow it. They easily reach or exceed two meters in height, although their lower leaves rarely exceed one meter. However, the space that a mature plant will need is much larger as their leaves tilt in the shape of an arch. So place the embroideries in corners or isolated places that you want to cover and beautify. Also, it would be good to avoid placing them in places with a lot of traffic so that people passing by do not touch their leaves and bother them.
Due to its slow growth, it can stay in the same pot for a long time (3-5 years) without needing to be transplanted. At some point when the soil is dry, lift the plant out of the pot, if the soil ball seems to consist mostly of roots rather than soil, then it is time to repot.
Finally, hedgehogs are usually infested with blacklegs and granules. Frequently clean the leaves with lukewarm soap and water (2-3 drops of dishwashing liquid in 1 liter of lukewarm water) to greatly reduce the chances of the plant being infected by such insects. To eliminate diseases (if detected) spray with a special preparation that will be supplied.
