Troubleshooting
Teddy Bear Palm problems — and how to fix them
Teddy Bear Palm (Dypsis leptocheilos) 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.
Frizzle top (manganese deficiency)
New growth emerges stunted, yellow, and distorted. Apply manganese sulphate as a soil drench or foliar spray. Ensure soil pH is not too alkaline, which locks out micronutrients.
Ganoderma butt rot
A fungal disease (Ganoderma zonatum) causing internal trunk decay; conks (shelf fungi) may appear at the base. There is no cure — remove and destroy infected palms to prevent spread.
Scale insects
Armoured or soft scales may colonise fronds and trunk. Treat with horticultural oil or systemic insecticide. Maintain good air circulation and monitor regularly.
Prevent teddy bear palm problems before they start
Most teddy bear palm issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for teddy bear palm in general rather than its problems? Read the full teddy bear palm care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Teddy Bear Palm problems — FAQ
Why is my teddy bear palm frizzle top (manganese deficiency)?
New growth emerges stunted, yellow, and distorted. Apply manganese sulphate as a soil drench or foliar spray. Ensure soil pH is not too alkaline, which locks out micronutrients.
Why is my teddy bear palm ganoderma butt rot?
A fungal disease (Ganoderma zonatum) causing internal trunk decay; conks (shelf fungi) may appear at the base. There is no cure — remove and destroy infected palms to prevent spread.
Why is my teddy bear palm scale insects?
Armoured or soft scales may colonise fronds and trunk. Treat with horticultural oil or systemic insecticide. Maintain good air circulation and monitor regularly.