Ravena (Ravenea) is a majestic plant from the Palm family. The island of Madagascar and the Comoros are considered his homeland. Depending on the type and variety of palm, the plant can be medium or large in size.
Ravena consists of a single barrel in a light gray or gray shade, reminiscent of the shape of a bottle. In the lower part, it is wider in diameter, and becomes narrower upward. The plant has many large symmetrical feathery leaves of juicy green color, from two to five meters long. The palm tree blooms in small inflorescences, and the fruit is a drupe.
Caring for a palm tree at home
Location and lighting
The palm tree is flatter and requires bright lighting throughout the year. She is very fond of the warmth of the sun and the direct rays of the sun. During the period of short daylight hours and insufficient sunlight, it is necessary to supplement the plant with fluorescent lamps or phytolamps. For uniform and symmetrical growth of the leaves of the plant, it is recommended from time to time to turn the palm of the other side to the main light source.
Temperature
The ravenea palm tree can withstand high tropical temperatures, but it also requires high humidity. The most favorable air temperature for a plant in our area from March to September is 23-25 degrees Celsius. Lack of lighting in winter causes a dormant period in the palm tree. At this time, it is recommended to keep the ravine at a temperature of 15 to 17 degrees Celsius.
Air humidity
The ravenja palm is a plant that prefers high humidity. To create favorable conditions, the palm tree must be constantly sprayed or carried out a small shower, and also wipe its leaves with a damp sponge or napkin. It is advisable to install a large container of water next to the plant, and the pot with a palm tree can be placed in a tray filled with moistened pebbles. The bottom of the flower container should not touch the surface of the water c.
Watering
For irrigation of rave, it is recommended to use only purified or separated water for three days, several degrees higher than room temperature. The soil should not be excessively wet or dry. As soon as the topsoil begins to dry out, it's time to water. In the spring and summer period, watering is carried out regularly and very abundantly. In autumn, the volume of irrigation water decreases, and in winter, the amount of irrigation is also reduced.
The soil
The optimal soil mixture for growing rave should consist of the following components: sod land, humus, rotted compost and river sand (all in the same proportions).
Top dressing and fertilizers
Top dressing is used only in the spring-summer period, and it is not recommended to apply fertilizers from September to March. The palm tree is fertilized twice a month using a special palm fertilizer with various minerals.
Transfer
Young plants need to be transplanted every 1-2 years, and for an adult palm, one transplant at 4-5 years will be enough.This process is not well tolerated, therefore it is recommended to use the most gentle method - the transshipment method.
A new Equal tank needs more depth. A drainage layer at the bottom of the pot must be present.
Reproduction of equalities
The seed method of reproduction is the only one for equalia. The seeds are planted in containers with soil suitable for palm trees, which contains sand. Before planting, the seeds are soaked in warm water for five days. Seeds are germinated in greenhouse conditions with a temperature of at least 25 degrees Celsius. After three months, seedlings will appear, which must be protected from direct sunlight.
Diseases and pests
The main pests are mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Various diseases are possible if care rules are violated