Diagnose The Causes
At the first sign of a dying palm tree, it can be difficult to know what has caused it’s decline. The first step to saving a dying palm tree is to identify the source of the problem. Consulting an expert or a certified arborist can help to diagnose the cause and come up with an appropriate solution. Common causes of death for palm trees can be simply due to a lack of water, but there are also many other possibilities such as root rot, over fertilization, insect infestations, or other nutrient deficiencies. Understanding the cause of the dying palm tree is essential to any hope of successfully saving it.
Proper Watering
One of the most important steps to saving a dying palm tree is to water it properly. This may sound simple, but inadequate watering has been linked to the death of many palms. When watering a palm tree, it is important to make sure one is providing enough water. During the summer months, it is suggested to water a palm tree once or twice a week to keep the soil slightly moist. It is also important to make sure the water is being distributed evenly around the tree. If a palm tree is in a pot or container, it may need to be watered more regularly then one being planted in the ground.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing a palm tree is also important for saving it from dying. However, it is important to make sure one is providing the correct amount of fertilizer for a palm tree. Applying too much fertilizer can cause the salt content of the soil to become too concentrated and this can cause damage to the tree. It is suggested to fertilizer a palm tree every three months with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, potassium and also magnesium.
Pruning and Removal of Dead Leaves
Once a palm tree’s dying condition has been identified and the proper precautions have been taken to water and fertilize it, the next step is to look for dead leaves or fronds that may be weighing it down. Any dead or dying fronds should be pruned off at the base of the tree with pruning shears. This can help to ensure that the energy and resources of the tree are focused on growing new healthy leaves, rather than on providing energy to dead or dying leaves.
Insects and Other Pests
Insects and other pests can also contribute to a palm tree dying. Some insects, such as borers and scale, will feed on the trunk and roots of a palm tree and can cause major damage. If a palm tree is infested with insects or other pests, it is important to contact an arborist or expert in order to identify and remove the pests in the most effective way possible.
Protect From The Elements
Strong winds and excessive exposure to the sun can damage a palm tree and can make it vulnerable to disease. If a palm tree is planted in a windy area, it is important to protect it with a sun screen or other type of shading device. This can help to minimize the damage caused by the elements and may be necessary for some types of palm trees to survive.
Mulching
Mulching is an important step to take when trying to save a dying palm tree. Mulch can help to protect the root system of the tree and can also help to keep the soil moist and regulate the temperature. When mulching, it is important to use a coarse, organic material such as bark chips or wood chips. The material should be spread evenly around the root system and kept at least 4 inches away from the trunk of the palm tree.
Consulting A Professional
If all else fails, consulting a professional or certified arborist may be necessary to save a dying palm tree. These experts have the knowledge and expertise needed to properly identify and address the issue. They can also recommend proper methods of care and treatments that are specific to the exact variety of palm tree.
Identify Specific Species
Different types of palm tree species may require different methods of care in order to survive. It is important to properly identify the exact type of palm tree one has before attempting to save it. This can help when researching the best methods for care and treatment of the palm tree.
Use Specialized Products
When saving a dying palm tree, it is important to use specialized products that are made specifically for palm trees. Palms live a very different life than other types of trees, and therefore, may require special treatment. There are now many products on the market that are designed specifically for palm trees and can help to reinvigorate them and save them from dying.
Identify Nutrient Deficiencies
Nutrient deficiencies in palm trees can cause them to become weak and vulnerable to disease. Micronutrients such as iron, manganese and zinc are essential for a palm tree to survive. If these nutrients are not present in the soil or if they are present in deficient amounts, a palm tree may become weak and prone to disease. Consulting a professional can help to identify any nutrient deficiencies and recommend ways to replenish them.
Address Poor Soil Conditions
Poor soil conditions can cause a palm tree to become weak and vulnerable. If the soil is too dense or waterlogged, it can prevent the tree from getting the necessary oxygen, water and nutrients it needs in order to survive. If the soil conditions are poor, it may be necessary to address them in order to save the palm tree. One can consult a professional or do research in order to understand the best methods for improving the soil conditions for a palm tree.
Protect From Cold Temperatures
Palm trees are naturally tropical plants, and because of this, they tend to be very sensitive to cold temperatures. If a palm tree is exposed to temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, it can become weak and vulnerable to disease. Planting a palm tree in a pot or container can help to protect it from cold temperatures. It is also important to mulch and to provide extra insulation when the temperatures drop.
Fungus Quarantine
If a palm tree becomes infected with a fungus, it is important to quarantine the tree and separate it from any other healthy plants. Fungal infections can spread quickly, and if left untreated, can lead to further damage and death of the tree. If the infection is severe, it may be necessary to consult a professional or to treat the tree with fungicidal products.
Use Mycorrhizal Fungi
Mycorrhizal fungi are beneficial organisms that help to improve the health of plants and trees. They can help to improve the tree’s ability to absorb nutrients and water and can also help to protect the tree from disease. Applying mycorrhizal fungi to the soil of a palm tree can help to improve the health of the tree and may be necessary in order to save it from dying.
Install A Watering System
Installing a watering system can be a great way to ensure that a palm tree is getting the proper amount of water it needs. Automatic watering systems can help to make sure the tree is getting watered regularly and evenly. This can be especially helpful for those who are unable to water their trees manually or on a regular basis.
Apply Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is a magnesium-sulfate compound that can be beneficial for palm trees. Magnesium is an essential element for healthy palms, and applying Epsom salt can help to improve the health of a palm tree that may be suffering from a magnesium deficiency. Applying Epsom salt to a palm tree can help to improve the health of the tree and may be necessary to save it from dying.
