Addressing some of the most common palm problems, Ornamental Palm Horticulture , by Timothy K. Broschat and Alan W. Meerow, just released by the University Press of Florida , presents virtually everything ever published about the subject in a concise and readable format, illustrated with 110 color plates and 81 black-and white photographs. Read on to learn about some of the most common palm problems , and find out what you can do to fix them. These signs of a spider mite infestation can be effectively treated with chemical miticides. The leaves have small yellow, orange, and bronze spots that cover almost the entire blade. These symptoms point to potassium deficiency, one of the most widespread problems in all landscape and field-grown palms.
Treatment usually requires soil applications of controlled-release potassium fertilizers.
An application of a similar magnesium fertilizer is also recommended to avoid having an imbalance in the soil. I have found several caterpillars on my palm leaves and have noticed some damage to the fronds. Caterpillars, butterflies, and moths are among the most destructive palm pests. Small infestations can be removed physically, but if the insects are in full force, they can do severe damage. The biopesticide Bacillus thuringenesis is effective on a wide variety of caterpillars.