Troubleshooting
Old Man Palm problems — and how to fix them
Old Man Palm (Coccothrinax crinita) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Very slow growth
Inherently slow; do not mistake this for poor health. Overfeeding or overwatering in an attempt to accelerate growth causes more harm than good.
Root rot
The primary cultural failure; ensure excellent drainage in all potting or planting situations.
Spider mites
In dry, warm conditions; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, taking care to reach the dense trunk fibres where mites can shelter.
Scale insects
Can colonise the woolly trunk sheath; inspect regularly and treat with horticultural oil.
Trunk fibre loss
Old fibres naturally shed over time; this is normal and does not indicate disease unless accompanied by other symptoms.
Prevent old man palm problems before they start
Most old man palm issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Old Man Palm problems — FAQ
Why is my old man palm very slow growth?
Inherently slow; do not mistake this for poor health. Overfeeding or overwatering in an attempt to accelerate growth causes more harm than good.
Why is my old man palm root rot?
The primary cultural failure; ensure excellent drainage in all potting or planting situations.
Why is my old man palm spider mites?
In dry, warm conditions; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, taking care to reach the dense trunk fibres where mites can shelter.
Why is my old man palm scale insects?
Can colonise the woolly trunk sheath; inspect regularly and treat with horticultural oil.
Why is my old man palm trunk fibre loss?
Old fibres naturally shed over time; this is normal and does not indicate disease unless accompanied by other symptoms.