• Palm trees are exotic trees that are great for privacy walls. Palm trees can grow as high as 80 feet tall. However, if you’re looking to plant palm trees, be aware of palm tree diseases and how to prevent them from happening in your yard.

    Trees can also get sick or contract infections, just like people. If you have a cold or know someone who has, it is important to know the symptoms. Trees can also show symptoms. These symptoms can be recognized and treated so that the tree receives the right care. Sometimes, the tree might be hazardous and will need to be removed.

    Our certified arborists and our skilled team can assist you in any situation. If your tree cannot be saved, we’ll explain the best course of action.

    Why Are My Palm Tree’s Fronds Yellow?

    Lethal Yellowing – This tree disease was first discovered in the Caribbean. It slowly spread northward and now affects trees throughout Florida. The name lethal yellowing comes from the yellowing that appears on palm fronds. This then leads to tree death. First, the yellowing begins with the lower fronds and then moves up to the crown. A palm tree’s crown might have a single frond at its center. This is called a “flag leaf”. If the flag leaf turns yellow, there is a significant risk that the tree will die.

    Lethal yellowing is caused by a microorganism (phytoplasma/bacteria) which is transferred through insects known as leafhoppers, as they feed on a diseased palm. The palm tree disease is ingested which allows it to spread and infect the next palm they feed on.

    Although symptoms can vary from one palm to the next, they tend to follow a pattern. First symptoms may include browning or darkening of the inflorescence (the cluster of flowers that eventually grow into coconuts), and then yellowing. Although there is no cure for yellowing that is lethal, early detection can help to prevent it from becoming a serious problem. Coconut and date palms are the most susceptible to lethal yellowing, but other trees can also be affected.

    Infestations of Palm Trees

    Rugose Spiraling Whitefly – This is a serious problem for palms, but also affects other trees. It is a relatively recent infestation that became prevalent in Florida around two decades ago. This lawn pest was first discovered in southern Florida, and it has now spread to Brevard County. Excrement, which is a sticky, glistening liquid (excrement) is an obvious sign of an infestation. It is formed when the whitefly uses the straw-like mouth to suck nutrients from host trees and palms. Honeydew can become a breeding ground for black sooty mold. This thickens leaves/fronds. After this happens, you will see an increase in the dieback of fronds/foliage.

    Leafhopper infestations, lethal yellowing, rugose spiraling, and whitefly infestations, are just a few of the many problems that can affect palms on commercial or residential properties. Other insects that can infest your palms include borers, scales, mites, aphids, and caterpillars.

    Contact Us

    There are many factors that can affect the health and decline of your palms. It is important to choose a company with a team of experienced arborists. Arborwise Tree Service has the experience, skills, and equipment to diagnose and treat many types of palm tree problems. 

    Our team at Arborwise Tree Service is available to help you with tree care challenges of any kind.  Contact us today for your quote on your lawn services such as:

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