Because new growth occurs from a high central growing point, palms can not be pruned back to reduce their height. In the home, plant diseases are very rarely a problem. Too much or too little water plus insects and mites are the main problems. Root rot usually results from a soil mix that does not drain quickly or overly frequent watering. Several scale insects attack palms.
Mealybugs are another common pest.
Mites are often a problem in the home because of low humidity and warm temperatures. Cold injury will cause reddish-brown dead areas on leaves after a few days. Most houseplant palms need temperatures above 45 F to prevent chilling damage. Tips of lower leaves may turn brown and die from excessive fertilization. Excessive iron fertilization can cause foliage spotting.