SavATree | Timely Tips Spring & Summer 2023

Have you noticed wilting, discoloration of leaves or overall decline of your palm trees?

These could be signs of Ganoderma palm disease, also known as Ganoderma butt rot. This disease is caused by a white rot fungus (Ganoderma Zonatum) that attacks the tree and infects the bottom 4-5 feet of the trunk. A palm tree cannot accurately be diagnosed with Ganoderma palm disease until the formation of a basidiocarp, or “conk,” is detected at the base of the trunk. The conk, a circular white mass that lies flat against the tree, produces and releases spores that continue to spread the fungus. If you notice a conk at the bottom of a palm tree, the tree must be removed in order to stop the spread of the spores.