Palm Tree Insects, Diseases, and Solutions

Palm Trees Insects and diseases

Bud Rot

This condition can be brought about by different contagious pathogens, Phytophthora species and Thielaviopsis species, and also bacterial pathogens. Bud rot is sometimes prevalent after a long soaking rain or hurricane. The bud can not air itself out if constantly submerged under water. Bud rot more often occurs after the palm suffered cold damage from frosty temperatures.

Ganoderma Root

This issue is brought about by the parasite, Ganoderma zonatu, which can taint numerous sorts of palm trees. The primary side effect of the disease is the shriveling and hanging of more established fronds.

False Smut

False filth aka Graphiola leaf spot is brought about by Graphiola species. This ailment is most common in very humid climates. Little, dark, mole-like bodies are seen, regularly with yellow fibers distending from the center of the raised spots.

Leaf Spots

This sickness called "leafspots" are brought about by an assortment of bacteria and fungi. Most leaf spots are a circular or oval shape, dark-colored and potentially shiny in appearance. The spots will fluctuate in size and shading based on the particular plant, the type of bacteria or fungi involved, and the length of time the tree has been infected.

Scale

In the unfortunate event that you see a lot of round, dark-colored scales on your palm tree you need to act right away because your tree has scale. It is hard to tell, but these mites are actually small female insects. Interestingly enough, they are headless and legless and once the female has developed, it can't move from where it has planted itself.

Mealybugs

They are in the family with scale insects, typically found in clammy, warm atmospheres. The females get nutrients from plant sap, occasionally in roots or on the tree leaves, fronds, or crevices. They append themselves to the plant and discharge a fine wax layer (thusly the name mealybug) which provides them cover as they greedily suck the plant juices. Male mealybugs are only needed for reproduction reasons and do not feed on the tree.

Powdery Mildew

This white, powdery looking substance is a fungal disease that affects a variety of palms and other plants. These diseases are caused by various species of fungi in the order Erysiphales, with Podosphaera xanthii or (Sphaerotheca fuliginea) being the most common reason for development.

Solutions

There are some solutions for a lot of these issues. There are numerous organic products and chemical products that can both work well to reduce and eliminate these problems. Neem oil helps a lot with scale and other pesky bugs. Another solution is to buy certain"good insects" that will feed on these damaging pesky critters. Soap, water, and some patience can also work for these if you take the time to wipe down every affected area and remove the mites. Here is some more info on other issues palm trees can encounter.