Question
I planted to pygmy palms in the ground four weeks ago in a raised bed.  I used a lot of compost from our local biosphere and tilled it in the soil that was in the ground.  The palms are growing and putting out new shoots, but they are turning yellow, and brown.  Can the compost be too rich, if so, would I be better digging the palms up and adding plain topsoil in and around the hole?

Answer
Hi Debbie, yes, it sounds like whatever was in the compost has compromised the roots on the Palm; the yellowing fronds are a sure indicator,especially when the newly emerged fronds are yellowing. Lift the Palm, clear the roots of any residual compost and remove it from the hole. It is ok to add additives, like top soil or processed manure, but it should be around the soil base that is in place and not in contact with the roots. The nutrients will leach into the soil and the roots will take it up and the Palm will benefit. Make certain you water it well after you lift it and reset it. Nick