Question
I just bought a fish tail palm, quite large
(6 ft?). I know it can be an outdoor plant but I put it inside in my sunroom where there's lots of light and a high ceiling.  I inspected the plant and I notice what looks like brown dirt on some of the stems and the veins of some leaves. When I wipe it away, it does look like dirt.  But, I know critters are deceiving.  Could this be a pest or, hopefully, nothing to worry about?  Also, I'd like to trim some of the stalks to "clean up" the look of the large plant.  Can I do this and how?  Thank you sooo much.  You seem quite popular!  Lisa

Answer
Hi Lisa,

I try very hard to answer indoor plant questions carefully, thoughtfully and thoroughly. I guess that makes me popular!

Your fishtail palm (Caryota mitis) likes lots of bright, but indirect light. Make sure that the sun does not shine directly on the leaves for more than a couple of hours each day or the leaves will scorch.

If it looks like dirt, then it probably is dirt! However, once removed with soap and water, it should not return. If it does, then send me a photo or a more detailed description of what you are finding.

Fishtail palms tend to grow wider rather than taller as they are slow growers generally. Any fronds that are too wide or not to your liking can be cut off where they emerge from the stem. It will not harm the plant. Entire stems can also be cut off at the base.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.
   
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.