What time of year is the best time to trim fronds and/or trunks on single/multi-stem species so as not to attract palm weevils or other nasty insects? From what I understand, cutting might attract unwanted pests to an otherwise healthy palm. We sometimes have this problem with Phoenix palms and Butia. Are there any other pests that are more prevalent at certain times a year that are also attracted to palm maintenance activities?

the most cold period possible. i dont know about florida though...

They are attracted to the smell of the sap so don't cut green fronds.

Sometimes the frond is dead but the petiole is still greenish....or if you are cutting the boots close...they can still have sap in them. So middle of winter is the best time to fancy cut/trim my boots?.......got to have fancy boots!

you could always spray "organicide" after cutting, it smells like fish oil... I would wager it will suppress sap vapors by occlusion and also mask them. Organicide works by depositing a thin film that suffocates the hatch. Many insects recognize as a danger, they wont lay eggs on it. the thin film will suppress sap vapors. the constitution is 92% fish oil 5% sesame oil, 3% emulsifiers. It is harmless to bees butterflies and other non parasitic insects. I have used it to control infestations and mold, and the smell is a mild fish smell that persists for a day or two.

Edited July 24, 201312 yr by sonoranfans

Where do you buy the stuff? Any particular brand?

google "organicide" its a trademark and you can order on line. There is a hose sprayer applicator that is best, then just use refills with bottle.

Thanks,

Big Box Store carries it....$14 ..... will give it a go!

The Organic Laboratories 64 oz. Ready-to-Use Organocide is an organic insecticide and fungicide that is ideal for the health- and environmentally conscious consumer who doesn't want to sacrifice performance when going green. It provides an effective way to control insects and disease on flowers and plants without using harsh chemical pesticides.

• Use in the garden to kill a wide variety of insects and control for fungal diseases, such as black spot on roses and powdery mildew
• Covers 500 sq. ft.
• Made of a blend of soybean extract and sesame and fish oils for effectiveness and plant safety
• OMRI listed for organic gardening
• Safe for use around people, pets and edible plants
• Does not cause plant burn for plant safety
•