Majesty Palm White Powder: Mealybugs or Mildew?

White powder on a Majesty palm (Ravenea rivularis) is likely either powdery mildew (fungal) or mealybugs (insects). Majesty palms are notoriously difficult indoors—they need intense light, lots of water, and heavy feeding.

Treatment

• Powdery mildew: Spray entire plant with Lysol every 3 days for a month.
• Mealybugs: Remove visible cottony masses with alcohol-dipped Q-tip. Spray 70% isopropyl alcohol on all surfaces every 3 days for a month.

Consider replacing with a bamboo palm (Chamaedorea), which is far more adaptable indoors.