Question
We live south of Jacksonville Fl and have a beautiful Silver date palm that is about 5 years old and the trunk is splitting on 3 sides to the point that beige root clusters are exposed.  Is this something that normally happens (I haven't seen it on other palms),can/should we bring in dirt to cover the exposed roots, or what? Could this be due to too much/not enough water The fronds are thick, and beautiful green. Thank you for your advice.
-Transplanted Yankee

Answer
Hi Debbie,,it is actually a common phenomenon and outside of being a little aesthetically unpleasing to look at, isn't a concern; I have a Queen (20footer# and a Washingtonia #30 footer) that have the bottom completely exposed to the inner fibrous roots....The bark will actually curl up to expose them. Nick