When an 18-Year-Old Potted Palm Declines: Root Disease and Hard Choices

Symptoms

Crown dying back, repotted 5 years ago, no new leaf in a year, trunk discoloring from ground up (⅓ height). One green leaf remains.

Prognosis

Very poor. Indicates systemic root/vascular disease. Palms rarely propagate from stem cuttings at home (require specific humidity/hormones). Pathogen likely transmits with cutting.

Reality

After 18 years, this palm has likely reached the end of its viable lifespan in a container. Consider replacement rather than heroic measures.