Question
I have an indoor palm tree that was healthy until I just recently discovered tiny white specks on the stems and the palm fonds. It appears the smaller, newer growth is really affected. Some of tips of the fonds are brown. Any idea what it is and how to treat it?

Answer
Hi Donna,

I could provide better assistance if you knew just what species your Palm is. There are dozens of very different Palm species with very different light and water requirements. I will explain at the end why this is important.

The "white specks" are most likely to be mealybugs, although I would need a photo to be positive. Mealybugs look like tiny specks of cotton. To treat them, mix a solution of 5 parts water, 1 part rubbing alcohol and a squirt of liquid dish soap. Then, spray all leaf and stem surfaces so thoroughly that they are all dripping wet. This is a messy chore that is best done outside if possible. The key here is to make direct contact with all the mealybugs, including the nearly invisible juveniles. If you miss a few, they will reproduce and come back to haunt you in the future.

Plants that are under stress tend to attract plant pests. There is a good possibility that your Palm is not getting proper light or water and is stressing the plant. If I knew exactly what Palm species you have, I could give you very specific care instructions. You can post a photo of your Palm here or to my email address below if you would like me to provide an ID for you.

I have written articles on treating plant pests and on Palm care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who emails a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com