Diseases

Sooty Mould

Rust

Pink Rot

Leaf Phytophthora

Phytophthora

Symptoms:

Often present when there is an infestation of other pests - ie; scale or mealybugs. Black mould covering the top of the leaf. It is fed by the pest emissions so does not feed directly from the host plant. It is not a serious threat to the plants health, but should be removed at the same time the associated pests are removed. (refer to image below)

Treatment:

Can be washed off with a cloth and weak fungicide solution. Easily controlled with a regular fungicide spray.

Rust

Symptoms:

Discolouration with spore clusters that come through the leaf (the spore clusters being the best identification of this disease as discolouration occurs in many circumstances). Leaves distort from the damage. Colour of rust on plams is orange - brown - black. "A severe condition of rust will irreversably damage the plants growth. (refer image below)

Treatment:

Regular application of fungicides to your garden will control.

Pink Rot

Symptoms:

Dark brown dead tissue will be present at the base of the plant just prior to the presence of a white to pink powdery fungus in the same location. Thrivess between the trunk and outer leaf blades where it can grow in a warm and protected spot. Causes irreparable scarring to the trunk and can easy lead to necrosis. (refer image below)

Treatment:

An intensive fungicidal spray regime is paramount in the early stages as it is very difficult to eradicate one it is established. Keep infected plant in an area of free flowing, cool and fresh air. Stagnant, warm and damp conditions aid its success.

Leaf Phytophthora

Symptoms:

Fungal contamination causing brown tips on the end of leaves. Predisposed to the various Nikau species.

Treatment:

Foliage fungal spray on a regular basis to control.

Phytophthora

Symptoms:

Wilting and yellowing of the central growth spike. Rotting of the central core.

Treatment:

If caught too late this will cause the palms demise. If treated early with a regular fungicide it can be saved. Ensure the palm is in its ideal conditions and change if necessary. Usually found in species that has been overwatered and in need of better drainage. Ensure entire area surrounding the infected plant is sterilised. Prone to the Kermadec Nikau species.