Question: Judy, We just plant a variety of palms in outside shrub area around a pool. We live in Arkansas. The Chinese fan palms are turning yellow and some have dry edges on leaves. I am unsure if I am watering too much or not enough. Is there anything you can tell me to help. These were planted by a qualified landscape person who has been in business for a long time, but palms are not that common in our area. These are supposed to be cold hardy enough to sustain our weather, although a really bad winter may be borderline. Any help you can give me would be appreciated. - Thanks, Carol

Judy's Answer: Dear Carol, My first recommendation is that you contact the landscaper who planted the Chinese fan palms and get his advice since he should guarantee what he plants.
That said, I must admit that I only recommend that fan palms be planted outside in Florida, along the Atlantic coast in the South Eastern part of the US and along the Gulf coast. They can also be planted in the milder areas on the west coast of California. I have never heard of them being successful in Arkansas.

FAN PALMS PREFER:
very bright light
lots of water for rapid growth (although they are surprisingly drought resistant),
winter temperatures that do not go below freezing by more than a few degrees
frequent feedings

They are subject yellowing of the leaves for no apparent reason.
Hope this helps you,
Judy