Troubleshooting
Vanuatu Fan Palm problems — and how to fix them
Vanuatu Fan Palm (Licuala grandis) 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.
Brown frond margins
The hallmark complaint; caused by low humidity, fluoride in water, or cold draughts — raise humidity and switch to rainwater.
Spider mites
Quickly colonise in dry warm rooms; treat with insecticidal soap and mist regularly to deter them.
Root rot
Even though moisture is needed, waterlogged soil is lethal; ensure excellent drainage and pots with holes.
Slow growth
Normal for this species; avoid over-fertilising to try to accelerate it, as this damages the roots.
Cold damage
Fronds become limp and discoloured below 15°C; keep away from cold windows and draughts in winter.
Prevent vanuatu fan palm problems before they start
Most vanuatu fan palm issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Vanuatu Fan Palm problems — FAQ
Why is my vanuatu fan palm brown frond margins?
The hallmark complaint; caused by low humidity, fluoride in water, or cold draughts — raise humidity and switch to rainwater.
Why is my vanuatu fan palm spider mites?
Quickly colonise in dry warm rooms; treat with insecticidal soap and mist regularly to deter them.
Why is my vanuatu fan palm root rot?
Even though moisture is needed, waterlogged soil is lethal; ensure excellent drainage and pots with holes.
Why is my vanuatu fan palm slow growth?
Normal for this species; avoid over-fertilising to try to accelerate it, as this damages the roots.
Why is my vanuatu fan palm cold damage?
Fronds become limp and discoloured below 15°C; keep away from cold windows and draughts in winter.