The Areca Palm is sensitive to Pink rot, Ganoderma butt rot and spider mites.

Pink rot also known as Cliocladium blight (Gliocladium vermoeseni) is a serious disease of the Areca Palm. The fungus develops from the humidity caused by the constant water. Pink rot lives in most soil. The fungus attacks the crown of the tree, the fronds turn brown and droop.

There is no treatment for this disease. To help prevent Cliocladium blight from occuring try to avoid excessive watering.

Ganoderma butt rot is another deadly disease of the Areca Palm. There is no treatment for curing this disease, there is only prevention.The disease affects young and mature plants. It can be spread through the soil and pruning tools. The first symptoms are drooping and yellowing the lower fronds, then the disease gradually progresses up throught the canopy until the bud is dead. If you detect conch near the soil or on the trunk immediately remove the infected palm to prevent the spread of infection to other trees. Use hydrogen spray to disinfect the soil.

The Areca Plam is also sensitive to spider mites. Early symptoms include flecking and discoloration of leaves. Eventually this disease can lead to leaf loss and palm death.

 Early detection of spider mites is important. Apply a pest remover if you detect the presence of the disease as soon as possible.

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