What’s wrong with my Palm?

[Diane D]

I just bought a house that has beautiful backyard in Sacramento, California USA.  It has Palm trees, but the biggest appears to be having a problem.  The problem seems to be getting worse.  Any ideas what it might be and how to help it?  The bottom cut fronds are still strong.  It just the middle part that is soft and falling apart.  It’s my first house, and first palm.  Any input is appreciated.  Thank you for your time reading my post.  

[Jim in Los Altos]

Normal shedding of old dead leaf bases. They all do that eventually unless they are shaven off beforehand by a tree service. Nothing to worry about. 

[Diane D]

Jim,

Thank you so much for your reply.  

Oh, what a relief!  Thank you.  I was so scared that it was a disease attacking my tree, and I would lose my beautiful palm tree.  (I even had a nightmare that it died and fell into the pool!)

Do I need to have an arborist shave it or should I at least pull off the soft fronds?  I want my palm tree to be happy happy happy!

Thank you, again, for replying.  

 

[Harry’s Palms]

You could have it shaved down for a more uniform look , or wait for it to occur naturally . Sometimes just a good nudge or tug will take them off but usually they are holding on pretty good . Wear gloves if you decide to try. Congratulations on your new home and beautiful backyard . Welcome to Palm Talk . Harry

[PhoenixFXG]

One of my favorite videos regarding this palm tree. It shows how it will look over time if left untouched by chainsaw pruning.

https://youtu.be/5xTNzWDA7mk

[Grounds Control]

What is wrong with this palm tree

[SeanK]

DOA

Looks like some weevil got into the bud.

[zero]

7 hours ago, Grounds Control said:

What is wrong with this palm tree

Most likely a victim of lethal bronzing AKA Texas Phoenix Palm Decline which is a disease caused by a phytoplasma.  It has already wiped out several Phoenix canariensis in the Houston area.  Infected palms should be removed ASAP to minimize the possible spread to other palms.