Question
I recently purchased a palm tree. a few weeks ago I started noticing these white spots about the size of a pin head along the base of the leaves and stalk.  I am able to wipe them off with warm water and they appear to be sticky in nature. I bought some Natria which is advertised to kill fungus insects and mites on houseplants.  I really am not sure if it is working.  Can you advise the best treatment for this plant and make some suggestions to help me make this a heathy/triving plant.
Thanks for your help

Answer
Joyce,

I suspect that your palm has mealy bugs. Put rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle mixed 50/50 with water and add 1 tablespoon per quart of mix of dish detergent. Spray the plant daily with this mix for 2 weeks then spray it twice a ween for a month. That should clear up the problem. Persistence is the key to killing any eggs that hatch. Good luck.

Darlene