I also had a question for you palm experts out there. As this is my first year in the pacific northwest and I have over 200 mule palm seedlings. I was curious as to if anyone has used grow lights during the winter. At the moment we will be using a little cabin to keep them in and warm but are concerned that there is not enough natural light. Is there any downfalls with using grow lights to suppliment this?

I am aware of keeping good circulation and keeping them off the ground. Any other pointers out there.

Here are some photos of some fully grown Mule palms. Xbutyagrus

Here are some photos of Mule palm seedlings xbutyagrus. cold hardy to zone 8

Erik welcome. Without supplemental lighting in an enclosed area without any light your palms or any palm will suffer. Trust me I know. I`m guessing you will only be needing 8 to 9 hrs lighting for a couple of months max as you are on the San Juan Islands Wa. I would suggest T8 flourescent lights as they provide the full spectrum mimicking sunlight. If you are using an electric heater as well get an electrician to check out the wiring ,again from experience. T8 lights use less power than other high powered lights. I would be interested in purchasing a few of those mule x butiagrus as a potted specimens here? Hope the info helps.

John

Thanks for the info John. There are actually quite a few windows in the cabin. Just not enought for my liking. The electrical work I just finished myself. Your information confirms what others have been saying, good cirulation is a must and not to run the lights to long as it will not give them down time to recoup for the winter. We have propane stove hooked up for the heating. Hopefully they will make it during the winter. I would hate to have to start all over. We potted up our seedlings into 1 and 2 gallon pots 3 months ago. I am sure we can provide you with some for our neighbors up north.