Question
Hello - i purchased 2 lovely tall and full majestic palms in August.  Problem:  Quickly yellowing leaves and not just bottom fronds. All over, no real brown spots - Conditions:  may not be ideal but I have always had great success with palms before.  Pot size is ok (original size), BUT for the first time I have a these plants in front of a slightly tinted window (office) with Northern light exposure.  I water them as I do the ones at home (Eastern morning lights - lots) and when this first occurred I assumed over watering.  The thing is this JUST started in October.  the leaves are not dry or brittle or brown on the ends.  No appearance of mites, bugs, etc.  I have heard that this might be a mineral issue?  Any ideas as to how to compensate and stop he process?  I am removing many leaves per day - (they are not dropping, I am plucking).  

Answer
Hi Rita,

Unfortunately, the majesty palm is the one commonly available plant that I never recommend because it has such a poor record as an indoor plant. It needs a tremendous amount of light and constantly moist soil to survive. In good light conditions, it also needs regular fertilizing with extra magnesium. Even so, it is rare for one of these palms to look decent for as long as a year. They are cheap to purchase, but overall they are a poor value.

In your case, a north window light is not sufficient and the tinting is reducing the light even more. Given your description of its rapid deterioration, especially newer fronds, I suspect that it is already too late even if you were to move it to a brighter location.

I am sorry about this bad news, but to tell you otherwise might make you feel better, but would be misleading.

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

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com

If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.