The latest Citrus Hills Garden Club meeting, held in the Activity Center Auditorium, was a resounding success, engaging approximately 75 members with an informative presentation on Understanding and Preventing Lethal Bronzing Disease in Palm Trees. The session, expertly led by Steven Davis of the University of Florida/IFAS, featured insightful contributions from Jason Aguilar of Anson Nursery and Paul Lloyd-Jones, a certified arborist from JLH Tree Care Services.
For those who couldn’t attend, here are some key takeaways:
- Understanding Lethal Bronzing Disease: It’s a rapid-decline infection in palms with no known cure once infected.
- Cause and Transmission: The disease is caused by a phytoplasma transmitted by a small, fast planthopper, affecting 21 palm species. While there’s no cure, a combination of antibiotics and insecticides can effectively prevent the spread.
- Symptoms: These include premature fruit drop, bronze-like foliage discoloration, early frond death, and more.
- Commonly Affected Species: Sylvester, Silver, Toddy, Wild, India Date, among others, are frequently impacted.
- What to Do if Suspected: Contact your county Extension Office or local nurseries like Anson or JLH Tree Care Services for assistance. Unfortunately, once infected, it’s often too late for treatment.
- Advice for Concerned Individuals: Conduct thorough research, consult certified arborists, understand supplier protocols, and establish your maintenance regimen.
The audience’s engagement was palpable, with members eagerly absorbing the crucial information and participating in a lively Q&A session. The presentation not only educated members on this critical issue but also fostered a sense of community and shared responsibility toward preserving the local environment.
In essence, staying informed and proactive is key to protecting palm trees from this devastating disease. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to one of the presenters listed above.