Q.Christmas Palm leaves dying
Have three triples by my pool for over 15 years w/o problems. Suddenly, about two months ago I noticed branches snapping off and falling before they die. Usually the tree ‘self cleans’ and drops entire branches with the base of the frond attached. Lately I’m finding full green branches snapped off jaggedly all around the pool. Is this just a case of fertilizer being needed? (I’ll admit…it’s been a while)
This looks like an animal is chewing them off. A nutrient deficiency is not going to lead to dropped healthy leaves. Squirrels have to chew to keep their teeth healthy so I'd think anything in the same family, like tree rats, might do the same. If you are in the US, call your state's Extension Service- every county has one- and ask about the likely suspects in your region. Some advocate wrapping a 24 inch wide band of aluminum around the trunk to stop climbers.
It should be fertilized every 4 months with a slow-release fertilizer.
