AboutGeorge Heaton Expertise Carnivorous plants and other endangered or threatened plants of northwest Florida are
what I can answer questions about. Germination of seeds, growing instructions and other
care facts are available from me.
Experience I have my own bog which is suitable to grow carnivorous plants and it is populated by sarracenia, sundews and other plant life.
Education/Credentials I am a high school graduate and I am self taught in the carnivorous plant field.
Expert: George Heaton Date: 7/7/2008 Subject: Royal Palm
Question Hi George,
I planted an 8ft double royal palm in WPB, Fl 5 years ago. Today, the tree is ~ 25 ft. and appears very healthy. However, the base of the larger palm is showing some sort of decay. I can see the exposed individual roots. The decay is only on one side of the base. It's approx. 4 inches high by 20 inches wide.The tree gets watered ~ 3 times per week for 20 minutes.
Thank you Tom
(alternate email: Thomas.chilson@pw.utc.com )
Answer Hello Tom, I'm no palm expert but your palm may be infected with ganoderma butt rot. There is no effective accepted treatment that I know of. I would suggest contacting the division of forestry to verify the problem. Usually infected trees are removed and burned. The mad scientist in me says get your propane torch and have someone stand close with a water hose. Scorch the infected area until it turns black. Clean off the black and scorch again and remove the black and repeat until you get to good wood. Spray with pruning paint and cover exposed roots with soil. Water well and sterilize any tools which have come in contact with the infected area. This is not my field of expertise and a second opinion may include better alternatives. Hopefully it isn't butt rot and your palm survives to grow 100' tall. Good luck and get a second opinion, George
