11 Year-old Bismark Palm Developing Speckles On Fronds And New Growth Is Not Opening

Question

I noticed something wasn’t right when four new brown shoots shot up and never opened into new fronds. Instead, the tree is accomodating the new growth by splitting in half at the top. Now there is a noticeable gap at the top.

Answer 1

Unfortunately, your photo did not come through. I am unable to see the damage.

It does sound like an infection has set in. Bacterial spot is common in soils that remain wet, or are too heavy to dry quickly.

I would recommend a fungicide, and to ensure that the soil has a chance to dry out down to about 2 or 3 inches between watering when possible to prevent future infections.

Here are some articles that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/bismarck-palm/growing-bismarck-palms.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm