Why Is My Newly Planted Palmetto Palm Turning Brown?
Question: Hello. Wondering if you could help. My husband and I purchased two Palmetto Palms (about 15′) and had them planted about 2 weeks ago. One of them is doing really well, it is very and has new growth. The other one is not doing as well, it seems to have turned a light brown color at the top. We have been watering them at least once a day. The weather here has been slightly cooler than usual in GA for this time of year (30′s at night). We were worried and the company we purchased from only gives a limited warranty. Just wanted to see if anyone may have some advice or know if there is any reason to worry. Thanks so much for your time!
Answer: It is not unusual for the palm trees to experience “transplant shock“. Palm trees lose a lot of their roots when exposed to air and it takes them a while after transplanting to establish. Few roots that are left work very hard to supply the water. That is why you have to water it so much during the first few weeks. Late Spring and Summer is the best time to plant a palm because it will give them enough time to establish before the cold days start. From what you telling me, it sounds like one of the palms is experiencing “transplant shock”. There is nothing you can do. Just keep watering them. Make sure to protect them from cold snaps. These palms are not strong enough to survive it. Here is one of my articles on how to protect palm trees from cold. ~Susan Brian
Know the answer to this question? Please write your answer in the comment box below.
A lot of palm trees die from fertilizer root burn and nutritional deficiencies. To avoid these problems, use fertilizer that has continues release formula, which feeds your palm tree for few months, rather than using a cheap fertilizer that will wash away after 2-3 rains.
I personally use 
It is time to protect your palm trees from cold! To avoid the cold damage, I spray my palms with 
Leave a Reply