Palm diseases
Phaeochoropsis neowashingtoniae
What is diamond scale (Phaeochoropsis neowashingtoniae)?
Diamond scale (Phaeochoropsis neowashingtoniae) is a fungal disease affecting palm trees. Which derives its name from its characteristic black, diamond-shaped fruiting bodies. The disease thrives in cool, moist conditions, particularly during winter and spring. Symptoms include small water-soaked lesions on older leaves, developing into black, diamond-shaped stromata on leaf blades and petioles. The disease progresses from older leaves to younger ones, causing chlorosis and premature leaf senescence, leading to potential extensive leaf loss.
How does diamond scale (Phaeochoropsis neowashingtoniae) occur?
P. neowashingtoniae reproduces through fungal spores that are dispersed by wind, water, or contact with infected plant material. The disease first infects the oldest leaves, causing water-soaked lesions. Black, diamond-shaped stromata containing sexual fruiting bodies develop, producing spores that spread to younger leaves in the palm canopy. This cycle perpetuates the disease as spores continue to disperse and infect new plant tissues.
Symptoms
1 - Plants Health
Phaeochoropsis neowashingtonia reduces palm vigor and health, increasing susceptibility to diseases like pink rot due to stress induced by diamond scale infestation.
Solutions
1 - Preventions
• Ensure proper care, including appropriate irrigation practices, regular fertilization, and good plant maintenance to promote palm vigor and resilience. • Select palm species known to be resistant to diamond scale. • Remove and dispose of infected leaves to minimize the spread of the disease. However, note that removing infected leaves may have limited effectiveness due to the widespread presence of fungal spores.
2 - Fungicide Treatment
• Seek advice from a local arborist, horticulturist, or plant pathologist to determine the most suitable fungicide and its application method for your specific situation. • Fungicides containing active ingredients such as thiophanate-methyl, propiconazole, or copper-based compounds may be recommended for diamond scale control. • The specific brand names and application details may vary, so it is essential to follow the product label instructions carefully.
