Diagnosing Trunk Damage on Recently Planted Foxtail and Bismarck Palms

Observations

Two 6‑month‑old foxtail palms in Florida show brown, elliptical lesions on the main stems after a brief freeze. A silver Bismarck palm planted weeks later is also discoloring. The landscaper removed all fronds pre‑emptively.

Assessment

The lesions look like mechanical abrasion—something rubbed against the tender stems—rather than a disease. Freeze injury on palms typically appears as water‑soaked, then brown, areas on the crownshaft or frond bases, not isolated elliptical spots.

Next Steps

1. Contact your county Extension office for an on‑site visit.
2. Do not apply fungicides blindly—misdiagnosis wastes money and may harm the palms.
3. Keep the root zone moist but well‑drained; avoid further physical contact with the trunks.

Long‑Term Care

Palms establish slowly. Protect the growing point (bud) from future freezes with frost cloth, and fertilize with a palm‑specific slow‑release product once new growth resumes.