I have used the same model for a couple years now. I generally use Leso products, (more pelletized than Scotts..But I generally run 5-7 ft apart, most of the ferts I set the spreader at 14-15. Earthway's web site has a settings chart if you look up the model. Lesco also has the settings for their ferts if you look on "spreader settings" Its a good spreader and spreads very evenly for the price Dan T

I got one of them in the same size pot as yours, and I couldn't resist the price $14. I'm keeping mine soaking wet, and it has grew 6" taller in 3 months, so they love to be soaking wet. I have mine in a 3 1/2 gallon pot. I'm giving it about 5 hours of sunlight, and it is very dark green, and none of the leaves have came off yet. I don't know how the miracle grow soil works with this palm, because i've never used it on the coconut palm, I use %50 course sand and %50 canadian spagnam peat moss, and mix them together, and it really likes this mixture, I didn't cover the shell, because on other palm trees if you cover only 2" of the trunk it will rot. I use 15-30-15 expert gardener all purpose fertilizer, it is a deep feeding fertilizer, which helps water and nutrients penetrate deep into the soil, so the fertilizer doesn't stay in one spot and cause salt buildup, give it to the palm according to the label, but since your limited on fertilizer you may not find it. I don't like those time or slow release fertilizers, because the time release causes salt buildup, and the slow relese it will release so slow that it washes away, and doesn't do the plants any good. I would gradually decrease the watering if the highs are staying below 80 degrees. Lee

This supposed buildup of detergent is usually caused by overdosing in the laundry and it'll happen whether you use liquid or powder. If you did it before you may do it again but the FL will be more visible. It's a good idea to do a rinse & spin on a few loads to get an idea if you have a problem. I find it so comical to read the threads where FLers scream that you MUST use HE detergents in a FL, yet there's another faction that tout Charlie's Soap, which is NOT HE. (It's "HE Compatible", like many others). That said, your detergent needs will vary from others due to your unique circumstances. You'll need to experiment to see what the level is that's good for you. Look for limited suds in the water while the cycle is going but also pop the door open and take a feel of the water for a "slippery" feel to make sure you have detergent in there. To get a good start, Tide HE powder is cherished by many, though Cheer powder is loved by many too. The good thing about both of them is they both have enzymes to help with cleaning. Though it's not mandatory, contrary to the statements made by some, it's still a good idea to go with HE, especially while you're getting used to a FL. You'll find the wars over detergents rage on much like the FL vs TL skirmishes. Expect a learning curve. Expect a time or two of oversudsing while you get used to it and even while you own it. It'll happen. Don't panic. It's an appliance, there to serve you. Enjoy your new machine.

Congratulations on the Harmony! I know I wouldn't trade mine for a top-of-the-line FL! It really is a great machine. It sounds like you're doing everything right. As far as the detergent, if one 1 or 2 TBSP is working for you then that's what I'd use. The Harmony is a TL but it's also an HE machine and doesn't require the same amount of detergent as a regular TL. My detergent call for 2oz in a regular machine but only 2 Tbsp in an HE (not just a FL) If you want to pre-soak with powder just put it in the tub before you add the clothes, this is what I do with oxy clean. As far as the dryer smelling, could it be something in the vent or the "hose" that connects to the vent? Have you tried washing the inside of the dryer? Lastly, if you are experiencing trouble with the screen I would call for repair. My is a few years old so unless they've changed them, the screen shouldn't need to warm up.