Hello, my recently bought and replanted Golden Cane Palm leaves are being eaten by something and has black spots at the base that is starting to multiple. What do you think is doing this and how do I fix it? Much appreciated 😀
Hello @JGoodall
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your golden cane palm.
Thanks so much for sharing photos of your golden cane palm. I can see two separate things going on with your Golden Cane Palm.
The long scraped, pale streaks and irregular chew marks on the leaves look like physical feeding damage rather than disease. On palms, this is most commonly caused by caterpillars, grasshoppers, or occasionally snails or slugs if the plant is outdoors or near a balcony or deck. The damage appears elongated and follows the leaf blade, which often happens when something chews while the leaf is still partially furled and then the marks stretch as it opens.
The black speckling clustered around the lower stems is a different issue. That pattern strongly suggests a pest infestation rather than fungus. The tiny black dots look very much like frass, which is insect droppings, and palms are quite prone to scale insects and thrips. If you look closely at the stems, especially near where the leaf bases overlap, you may find small, raised bumps that can be scraped off with a fingernail. Scale insects in particular sit along stems and leaf bases and cause black speckling and gradual decline. Sometimes you will also see a slightly sticky residue before sooty mould develops.
Because you recently replanted it, the plant is already a bit stressed, which makes it more attractive to pests.
I suggest taking the following steps. First, inspect the plant very closely, especially under the leaves and around the base of the stems. Use a torch if needed. If you see any small bumps or tiny moving insects, that confirms pests. Wipe the stems and leaves down with a soft cloth dipped in diluted soapy water to physically remove as many insects and droppings as possible. Then treat the whole plant with either neem oil or a horticultural oil spray, making sure to coat the stems, undersides of leaves, and the base where they emerge. Repeat every 7 to 10 days for a few cycles because eggs will hatch.
If you suspect caterpillars, check at night with a torch, as they often feed after dark. Hand removal works very well if you can find them.
Also make sure the palm is not sitting in overly wet soil under those decorative stones. Golden Cane Palms like well-draining soil. If water is sitting underneath the pebble layer, that can stress the plant and make pest problems worse.
The good news is the plant overall still looks green and strong, so this is very fixable. Once the pests are controlled, new growth should come through clean and healthy.
Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when spraying your plants.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
