Question
Hi. In November I rescued a neglected 3-1/2' chameadorea radicalis palm from a dumpster. I trimmed off all the dead spots, replanted it in a new plastc 15" pot, fresh tropical potting soil, and   diluted fertilizer. I water it as needed, and even give it leftover coffee grounds for extra nutrients. About 3 days a week I let it sit in front of the livingroom window(south exposure) but  usually it is in the corner, with indirect light. It started doing really well in its new conditions, and started growing 4 new fronds. Suddenly, the plant is getting sick and some of the larger leaves are turning yellowish. I dusted the leaves a few days ago & found white things about the size of a pinhead on the underside of the leaves. They wipe off a light green color. Is this a parasite? What should I do? This plant has the potential to be really majestic, and I hate to see it die. Please help.
Sincerely, Lisa

Answer
Hi Lisa,

You are a trooper for trying to rescue this palm. However, there are several things that could be a problem here.

First, a 15" pot is way too big for a palm of only 3.5 feet. A 10" pot would be more appropriate. The large pot with excess soil increases the risk of root rot substantially as the soil retains moisture for too long. This palm is quite drought resistant, but is very prone to root rot.

Fresh potting soil has more than enough nutrients, so your use of fertilizer is redundant at best and could potentially cause root and tip burn. Coffee grounds are a definite no-no. They add few nutrients and they make the soil too acidic, thereby binding up the nutrients that are in the soil. Save the coffee grounds for your outdoor compost heap. try to remove those that you have added.

Your palm would do better in a stable environment where the light is the same. Lots of bright indirect light is preferred for this palm. That would be right in front of a north window or back a bit from a south window.

I cannot evaluate how serious the problem is without knowing the location and extent of the frond yellowing. If new growth at the top is affected, that is a serious root problem. If it is a few older fronds, it may be a light or adjustment problem.

Palms are most commonly affected by spider mites which accumulate on the undersides of leaves. However, spider mites are quite a bit smaller than a pin head and they leave a mottled appearance on the leaves. If the white things are soft and cotton-like, then they are mealybugs. Aphids actually look like insects with legs and could be what you are seeing. Let me know which you have or send me a photo of them and then I will send you appropriate treatment instructions.

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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