Fusarium Wilt of Palms Description:
Fusarium wilt of palms is caused by a fungus that blocks the vascular tissue (xylem), which transports water and nutrients. There is no cure, so infected trees eventually die.
Hosts:
Different strains of Fusarium oxysporum cause wilts on different palm species. Two primary strains are Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. canariensis and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. palmarum. Palms attacked by this contagious disease include Canary Island, Queen, Mexican Fan (also called Washington palm), Senegal date and California fan.
Biology & Symptoms:
The disease usually starts with wilting and yellowing of older, lower fronds, and discoloration normally begins on one side of the petiole.
Another fungal disease, pink rot (Gliocladium blight), often accompanies fusarium wilt. This opportunistic disease targets old, weak or injured plants
Management:
Since pink rot and fusarium wilt of palms often occur together, the first step in management is treating the pink rot with a fungicide.
Infected fronds should be pruned away and pruning tools should be disinfected before they are used again. Sawdust containing fungal spores can be carried on the pruning equipment and chainsaw. Symptoms can take up to 18 months to appear. Remove and destroy all parts of infected trees. The fungal spores can survive in compost. Purchase palms from reputable sellers and plant them in well-drained soil.
Since there is no cure for this disease, avoid contamination by sterilizing pruning tools between uses. Use disease resistant species and remove and destroy infected palms to prevent the spread of the fungus to healthy palms. Consult with your local arborist for more information on protecting your trees.
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