Expert: John-Paul Friend - 11/29/2006

Question
Hi thanks for your reply, could you suggest any other palms that would be suitable
-------------------------------------------
The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
Hi we have a concrete pool and wanted to know if you can plant golden cane palms within 1 metre of the pool, or do they damage any piping or crack the pool wall looking for water.  regards  Lindsey Mooney
-----Answer-----
Hi and thanks for your question. Please excuse the lateness of this answer, but I've only just received it. As for the palms, I would say do not plant them within close proximity of any retaining structures, pools or pipes as their roots have a tendency to spread. There are many other more manageable palms available. I hope this is of some help, if you have any further questions please do not hesitate to get back in touch.

Answer
Hi and thanks again for your question. As far as palms are concerned it depends what type of effect you wish to create. I would recommend looking through a book or the internet to find the right palm for you. Most palms are ok to plant near concrete, but golden cane palms can be invasive so its best not to risk it. I've always like Cordyline australis and Trachycarpus fortunei, but these can get quite big. The Cordyline is hardy and comes in greens and reds so may be worth a look. If you want a more specific answer please get back in touch with details of the scheme, what you wish to create and how much space you have. It would also be useful to know which state you live in so I can work out the climate as I'm in the UK. Thanks again for your question.