Majesty Palm Stem Bumps: Scale Insects, Isolate and Treat

Likely Diagnosis

Lumps/bumps on stems + frond loss/yellowing = scale insects. Adult females attach firmly; suck sap → yellowing, drop. Juveniles (crawlers) at frond bases. Honeydew → ants (check).

Immediate Actions

1. Isolate: Keep away from healthy palms (1+ month until garage).
2. Inspect closely: Magnifier for crawlers at frond-stem junctions.
3. Scrape adults: Fingernail; pale green spot underneath = live.
4. Treat: Horticultural oil (if >45°F) or neem oil/soap (indoor). Weekly × 3.

Photos Critical

Email close-ups to expert for confirmation. jdcawly@mckendree.edu

Overwintering

Keep diseased palms outdoors until near-freezing (40°F) to slow pests. Garage together only after clean bill of health.

Scale spreads via crawlers. Isolation + aggressive treatment = protect your collection.