The phoenix palm is not necessarily very susceptible to diseases and pests. It is considered to be quite robust and easy to care for. However, under unfavorable conditions or in the event of errors in care, impairments can occasionally occur.

Outdoor phoenix palms are less susceptible to disease

What diseases does the phoenix palm suffer from?

Occasionally, the phoenix palm suffers from a fungal attack. This is manifested by brown spots on the tips of the leaves. Here you should not tinker around for long but resort to a fungicide. Most often, such funds have to be applied several times, since fungi are very stubborn. If only a few leaf tips are affected, cut them off. With a bit of luck, this treatment will suffice.

What pests is the phoenix palm susceptible to?

Occasionally, the phoenix palm is attacked by mealybugs or scale insects. You can easily recognize this by the cotton-like covering on the leaves. If the infestation is low, wipe these critters off with a cloth soaked in alcohol. A solution of soft soap (44.90€) spirit and water is also helpful. Use this to spray your palm tree every two to three days until there are no more pests.

Spider mites like to appear on the phoenix palm in winter, especially when the heating air is quite dry. If you ensure high humidity, the little animals on your palm tree will not feel comfortable. Spray your phoenix palm regularly with water (preferably lime-free) or set up an air humidifier.

How can I prevent diseases and pests?

As with most other plants, the best preventive measures against pests and possible plant diseases are the right choice of location and good care. Outside in the garden, the phoenix palm rarely gets sick or attacked by pests. If it gets too much or too little water, its leaves may turn brown, but the plant also loses a lot of resistance. Over-fertilization shows similar symptoms.

The essentials in brief:

  • more resistant in fresh air than when kept indoors
  • brown leaves have different causes
  • brown spots on the leaf tips: fungal attack
  • quite common in winter: spider mites
  • occasionally occurring: mealybugs or scale insects

tips

If possible, place your phoenix palm in the fresh air for a while in the summer so that it becomes more resilient.

Category:

Trees