Question
Although last winter was very hard on tropicals here in New Orleans my Queen Palm survived and was putting out new growth until past 6-8wks. The last new growth shoot died shortly after coming out & now the existing leaves appear to be dying. The palm is planted in the ground but is in a planter type environment located on the sidewalk with plenty of sun exposure and has thrived for several years prior to this. I do not see any type of black or white fungus or mildew anywhere and the trunk does remain green. I've tried fertilizer but this has not helped. I have noticed an odor of cat urine but not sure if this could be it since the giant liriope planted on both sides of the palm is thriving. What could this be &/or what should I do? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.  

Answer
Hi David, you mentioned a "planter" type location, therein lies the problem, it has done fine up to now, for the root system had enough soil base to expand, but now it is probably running into a barrier underneath and is stressing; I am not there and can't say for sure, but I have a visual from what you have said, and am thinking that it is a big part of the problem, in addition to being stressed from cold also. Nick