The best plan of attack is to maintain healthy palms. A regular fertilization program is one of the best starts to having a healthy palm. South Florida's sandy soils and heavy rainfall combine to leave little resources from which mature palms can draw nutrients. The fertilizer should be evenly distributed along the root zone of the palm but should not touch the base of the palm. Remember that palm roots extend many feet from the base of the palm.
Regular fertilization is a very important part of a palm maintenance program.
While environmentally safe products are being developed, there are a few chemical methods to attack the Royal Palm bug. None of these methods are available to the homeowner but must be contracted through an arborist who is a state-certified pesticide applicator. Chemical methods should only be used in severe infestation cases. Homeowners should also protect their palms from injuries. Lawnmowers, weedeaters, and car bumpers can do irreparable damage to palms.