| Adina, welcome to gardening! I hope my post isn't too much of the third degree, but in order for our help to be really useful, we need more info. The first step is to identify the palms. What are their fronds like? Some have fronds with a long center stem, with grass-like leaflets coming off the sides--like the center shaft and soft parts of a feather. These are called (of course) feather palms. Others have a stout stem from the trunk that ends in a broad, pleated leaf like a huge Japanese fan, usually with the edges split into long, grass-like segments--the fan palms. Some plants that aren't palms, but are sometimes sold as them, have long, grass-like or sword-like leaves coming directly from the trunk. What are the trunks like? Are they smooth and ringed? Do they have old leaf-bases attached? Do they have rough bumps in a diamond pattern? The next thing to do is to describe the exact symptoms. Are the lowermost leaves dying first, or the very newest ones at the top center? Are all the fronds turning brown at the tips? Are all the fronds just turning yellowish? "The devil is in the details." Also, what kind of care are they getting? How often and how much are they being watered. Have they been fed, and when, and how much? How much sun are they getting? Any recent major changes in their environment? New pavement or change in soil grade? Digging for new sprinkler lines? Shade trees cut down? Did you or the neighbors spray for weeds, and with what? Do you or your neighbors backflush the pool in the vicinity? There are all kinds of possibilities. Fortunately, all gardening isn't fuss, bother, and worry! Most plants, including most palms, pretty much take care of themselves, once a few basic needs are met. Breathe deep, watch your plants do their stuff, and your gardening instincts will grow, too. Kevin : ) |
