Why is my pygmy palm dying?

Answer by  BrendaG (6111)

They require lots of water, especially in summer, but do not like sitting in water. Make sure you have good drainage for them. Leaf spot and bud rot can eliminate these trees, as well as potassium deficiency. Use fungicides that contain copper and a fertilizer with potassium and magnesium sulfate. Do not overwater with a sprinkler system.

Answer by  cwalker0 (190)

Pygmy palm is a water loving plant and the soil at the base of the plant should always be moist. However it does not like to have it's roots constantly wet so do not allow it to stand in water. This plant likes full sun but will do okay in the shade.

Answer by  Trent (75)

Generally when a palm is dying in the spring, it is because a harsh winter caused temperatures that a palm can not tolerate.

Answer by  Ginny (2251)

It may be because you are not watering it enough. Pygmy palms love water and should never be allowed to dry out. You need to water it at least two to three times a week unless it is in full shade, and then slightly less.

Answer by  Liz59 (10966)

Perhaps, you are not putting in enough water supply. Is there exposure to the sunlight? The pygmy plant requires enough exposure to sunlight. If it does not get enough, it will eventually die.

Answer by  bl834 (1317)

Pygmy palms tend to be susceptible to leaf spot and mealy bugs. It is also possible to over- or under- water the plant, or it could be in an inadequate location (near the dryer vent exhaust for example).

Answer by  Isiseyes (178)

Palm trees are meant to grow outdoors. Lack of humidity, proper soils and potting methods can result in weak and dying plants. Containers should be large enough to hold the growing root system as well as a few inches of drainage material on the bottom. Mist frequently.

Answer by  kimby (56)

Try fertilizing every three months during Spring and Summer with a water soluble fertilizer. Also, you shoulod trim the old, brown leaves. Move the pygmy palm tree outside during hot Summer months.