Protect Florida Palms from Lethal Bronzing Disease

Lethal bronzing disease, formerly known as Texas Phoenix Palm Decline was first identified in Hillsboro County, FL in 2006. It has since spread quickly, especially throughout the central part of the state. 

Once infected, palm trees rapidly decline, and ultimately die. Early identification and quick action for lethal bronzing disease are vital to helping stop the disease spread.

Read on to learn more about lethal bronzing symptoms, what palms are susceptible to lethal bronzing, and what causes lethal bronzing.

What Causes Lethal Bronzing Disease

Lethal bronzing is a disease caused by a phytoplasma, which is a bacterium-like organism spread by a type of planthopper known as American palm cixiid (Haplaxius crudus). The insects inject the transmitted phytoplasma into the tree through their saliva, and the pathogens plug the phloem tissue, which transports plant sap throughout the tree. 

What Does Lethal Bronzing Look Like

Lethal bronzing disease is deadly. Once infected, a tree can wilt and die within three to five months depending on the health and environmental stress placed on the palm. Keep an eye out for these lethal bronzing symptoms:

• Sudden fruit drop
• Older fronds from the mid-section to the lower section turn reddish-bronze and droop
• Newly emerging fronds then begin to brown 
• Collapse of the crown

If these symptoms are noticed, it is imperative to have tissue from the trunk of the palm tested to confirm it is LB. If it tests positive, the palm should be removed, and the surrounding palms should be tested as well. 

What Palms Are Susceptible to Lethal Bronzing

As its former name implies, lethal bronzing disease mainly affects the Phoenix species; however, it has been confirmed on the following species: 

• The Edible date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) 
• Canary Island date
• Pygmy
• Pindo
• Wild date
• Queen
• Coconut
• Cabbage (sabal)

Lethal Bronzing Disease Treatment & Management

Unfortunately, the only solution for an infected tree is removal. Sampling trees growing near infected palms can also help manage the disease. Trees can appear healthy but could already be infected. Removing an infected tree as early as possible can prevent lethal bronzing from spreading.

How To Protect Palms From Lethal Bronzing Disease

Palms that are still healthy may be protected by injecting them with a combination of preventative antibiotics.

These treatments are injected into holes in the palm tree trunks created by using sterile drill bits. Treatments help protect trees that would be expensive to replace.

If you notice lethal bronzing symptoms, act fast to prevent the disease from spreading! Our team of certified arborists can diagnose and recommend the best course of action, including testing, treatments, and preventative care. Contact your local Naples or Orlando Davey office for a free consultation.

 WHY ARE MY PALM TREES TURNING YELLOW?