Robellini Palm Decline After Trimming: Manganese Deficiency Likely

Robellini Palm Decline After Trimming: Manganese Deficiency Likely

Four 10-ft Robellini palms in S. Florida, one declining after trimming/fertilizing (had 20+ pods): yellowing, wilting despite daily watering. Others healthy. Likely manganese deficiency ("frizzletop") from alkaline soil, not lethal yellowing (Robellini resistant).

Diagnosis

• New fronds yellow, withered, scorched = frizzletop.
• Common in high-pH South Florida soils.

Action

• Apply manganese sulfate per label.
• Soil test via county extension for pH and nutrients.
• Adjust pH if needed (elemental sulfur).
• Rule out bud rots (Phytophthora, Thielaviopsis) by checking spear leaf.

Note

Don't remove palm yet; nutritional fix often works. Pods (flowers) drain energy; trim them off.