Queen Palms Declining After Freeze with White Growth on Trunk? Could Be Ganoderma—Describe the Growth

Several queen palms in Tampa lost fronds months after winter freezes. Fronds are limp and brown. White growth appears on upper trunk and fronds. Is it killing them?

Critical Distinction: Location of White Growth

• At base (soil line): Ganoderma butt rot—fatal, no cure.
• On upper trunk/fronds: Likely something else (scale, mealybugs, sooty mold, lichen).

Need More Detail

Nick asks for a description of the upper-trunk growth: powdery? crusty? movable? color? This determines if it's an insect, fungus, or harmless epiphyte.

Freeze Damage vs. Disease

Delayed freeze damage is common—palms use stored reserves, then collapse. But the white growth is a separate issue. Accurate ID is essential before treatment.