Newly Planted Foxtail Palm Browning: Sunburn, Fungus, or Transplant Shock?

The Scenario

Two foxtail palms planted in Tampa (marginal zone). One—B&B triple—looks fine. The 25-gal single browns heavily within a week. Nights only in upper 40s. Tree faces southwest; watered every other day.

Expert Analysis

• Keep watering every other day for several more weeks—new palms need consistent moisture.
• Browning on sun-exposed side suggests sunburn or fungal issue. Small yellow spots along fronds hint at fungus.
• Wrap trunk to lowest frond with frost blanket if freeze threatens.

Critical Questions

Who planted it? How deep? Was the root ball disturbed? Planting depth and technique often underlie early decline. A fungal spray (copper or broad-spectrum) may help if spots spread.