Palms are hungry trees, requiring plenty of fertilizer to fulfill their desire for nitrogen, magnesium and potassium. Palms showing signs of nutrient deficiencies might be growing in rich soil but cannot access the nutrients because of root diseases or the incorrect soil acidity. Manganese, a micronutrient, is vital for healthy palms. Manganese deficiencies cause stunted development, discolored foliage, and a condition called frizzle top. Since manganese deficiency may be lethal, the hands need to be treated with manganese sulfate. Take note that sulfates are not exactly the same thing as sulfites. Although the names may be confused, sulfites are chemicals used in food poisoning, not plant maintenance.
Diagnosing the Problem
Symptoms of manganese deficiency start with yellowing between the veins of the leaves. Necrotic streaks will appear between the veins. As the problem persists, new leaves are stunted and threatening, and might appear scorched. The first thing to examine is that the pH level of the soil around the palm tree. If the pH level is above 6.5, the tree is unable to take in manganese in the soil. Too much phosphorous may also bring about manganese to be unavailable to the palm, as may poor drainage. If the palm tree has been planted too deeply, it may suffer from root problems that avoid uptake of manganese in the soil. Bad drainage, drought or soil that’s alternately well-drained and waterlogged may also interfere with the palm tree’s capacity to take in sufficient manganese.
Adding Manganese to Soil
The Clemson Cooperative Extension notes a solution of 1 tsp of manganese sulfate per gallon of water may be mixed together and applied directly to the soil around the palm tree. This therapy only functions if the soil lacks manganese and the tree doesn’t have any problems that keep it in obtaining the nutrient. The manganese sulfate solution might be used two or three times annually, as required.
Foliar Sprays
Once the manganese sulfate is combined with the water, it may be applied as a foliar spray. Foliar sprays work quickly for nutrients to the foliage, where they are most needed. The sprays are best for trees suffering from difficulties that keep them from getting manganese in the soil. The palm tree fronds need to be sprayed thoroughly and typically need more than 1 program if lack symptoms persist. Problems with the soil ought to be addressed too, since foliar feeding is a short term solution.
Prevention
Adjust the soil pH across the palm tree, if needed, to keep it under 6.5. To lower the pH level, you are able to apply aluminum sulfate or sulfur to the soil around the palm tree. Readily available commercially, aluminum sulfate is a fast-acting substance that dissolves quickly in the soil to low the pH level. Sulfur may take up to several months to successfully lower the pH level of the soil. The amount required to lower the pH level in your soil is dependent upon the current pH level. Either product should have concise instructions on the package to the amount to use to attain the desired acidity amount.