A Sylvester palm from our Vero Beach farm is field-grown, root-wrapped in the field, and delivered ready to plant. This post walks through the process, from the crew in the rows to the palm sitting at your site. Knowing each step helps you plan the planting day.
Field-Grown, Not Containerized
Our palms are field-grown on the farm in Vero Beach, FL. They are not containerized. A field-grown palm has spent its life in the soil, so its root system is shaped by the ground it grew in. The Sylvester palm, also called Phoenix sylvestris Robusta, silver date palm, or India date palm, is the variety we grow here.
Palms are graded as specimen and Florida Fancy. Sizes run from 7 ft overall height up to 9 ft of clear trunk, and some specimens are over 20 ft overall height. Ask which grade and size fits your planting spot before you choose a palm.
Choosing the Exact Palm
You can visit the farm, walk the rows, and pick the exact palm. Call ahead before visiting so we can plan for your time on the farm. Owner Jerry meets customers in the field, so you can ask questions as you look.
Bring the measurements of your planting space. Note the height you need, any overhead lines, and the room around the root ball. Good choices start with a clear picture of where the palm will live.
How the Crew Prepares the Palm
Once you choose a palm, the crew root-wraps it in the field. Root wrapping protects the root ball while the palm is moved. The crew then loads the palm with a loader onto a trailer or flatbed.
Delivery is available for every order. The palm rides to your site ready to plant, so you can focus on the hole and the setting. If you have tight access or a steep drive, ask how the palm will be handled on the way in.
Getting Your Delivery Quote
Delivery price is not published. Call 772-778-3006 with the planting address and ask for a quote. Giving the address up front helps us plan the route and the equipment that fits your site. You can also learn more about our palm delivery and planting services before you call.
Ask about palm size, grade, and the timing of delivery. A clear plan for delivery day helps planting go smoothly, especially if the hole is ready and the crew can arrive at a set time.
Plant as Soon as Possible
Plant as soon as possible after delivery. The sooner the palm is in the ground, the sooner its roots can reach the surrounding soil. Planting promptly also keeps the palm from waiting in the heat. Plan your delivery day so the hole is ready and someone is on site to receive the palm.
If planting must wait, keep the root wrap on and set the palm in a shady, well-ventilated spot. Check on it each day so it stays healthy until it goes in the ground.
Digging the Hole Right
Dig the hole about twice as wide as the root ball, but only as deep as the palm was grown. This matters. Planting too deep can stress the palm, so never bury the trunk. The root ball should sit at the same depth it grew in the field.
Backfill with a soil and gravel mix, and pack out air pockets as you go. Build a soil dam around the hole so water stays where the roots are. Soak the planting area fully so the new palm settles in.
Water and Fertilize in the First Year
After planting, water daily or every other day for the first two weeks. Adjust if rain has been steady. Consistent water helps new roots grow out into the surrounding soil.
Fertilize in spring, summer, and early fall. Use a slow-release fertilizer that contains manganese, magnesium, potassium, iron, and copper sulfates. Follow the label directions. For a full planting and first-year care guide, see our planting care page.
Cold Hardiness and Low Maintenance
The farm describes the Sylvester palm as cold-hardy, wind tolerant, and low maintenance once established. Those traits can suit many Vero Beach yards, though every site is different. Watch how your palm settles in during its first season. Look for new fronds and steady growth as signs that the palm is adjusting.
Good planting and steady early care make the biggest difference. The palm does most of its early establishing once its roots are working in the soil, so focus your attention on the first weeks. Keep a simple note of when you watered and what you noticed, so you can spot changes early.
Serving Vero Beach and Indian River County
Sylvestris Tree Farms grows palms in Vero Beach, FL, and serves Vero Beach and Indian River County. Local soil, sun, and wind all shape how a palm grows, so talking through your planting site is a good first step.
Ready to pick your palm? Call Sylvestris Tree Farms at 772-778-3006 with your planting address for a delivery quote. Call ahead before a farm visit, and Owner Jerry meets customers in the field to help you choose the right palm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does palm delivery cost?
Delivery price is not published. Call 772-778-3006 with your planting address and ask for a quote.
Is delivery available for every order?
Yes. Delivery is available for every order. The crew root-wraps the palm in the field, loads it onto a trailer or flatbed, and delivers it to your site.
What if I cannot plant right away?
Plant as soon as possible after delivery. If planting must wait, keep the root wrap on and set the palm in a shady, well-ventilated spot.
Can I visit the farm and pick my own palm?
Yes. Call ahead before visiting to walk the rows and pick the exact palm you want.