Palm Trees losing bark

Question

Can somebody please tell me why my two palm trees are thinning at the center of the trunk. It seems that the bark is being clawed off. My gardener thought it might be raccoons or some other night creature using the tree to sharpen their nails similar to what a cat does. If so, I was going to place chicken wire around the affected area but I think it is more likely a disease. Whatever it is, it thinning fast. Anyone recognize or have had the same issue? If so, any advice would be most appreciated..

Janet Pizaro · Answer

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/repairing-tree-bark-damage.htm

1240839 · Answer

Palms are a totally different plant. It may be a scratching post, but it could also be a time in that trees life when water was restricted.

dHow are the other palms doing? If it's just one, it could be diseased.

What will be damaged if it fails?

Jan Clark · Answer

If you live in Florida, this may be Ganoderma Butt Rot. It's a nasty fungus that invades at ground level and moves up the tree trunk, only showing itself as it kills the outer bark. You know you've lost your tree when the white scaly fungus actually appears on the surface of what's left of the trunk. Unfortunately, there is no known cure since its discovery was made less than 30 years ago. If they mean a lot to you, I'd contact an arborist who may have an injectable spectral fungus treatment. It's a gamble, but it is the best 'treatment' there is for now.

Pat · Answer

There is no known cure for Butt Rot. Replacement is the only answer.

Patricia · Answer

I had to have mine removed after they died. Turned out to be termites eating them

Bwl22167946 · Answer

Knock on it and see if carpenter ants crawl out. That's what I had happen to one of mine. We dusted for the ants and the tree is doing okay. Hasn't lost much more 'bark'.

Rosy · Answer

Termites. Remove your tree.

1240839 · Answer

Yes to getting arborist. Funny comment about neighbor.

Tree problem · Answer

Have you find the solution yet? I have the sam problem on one of palm trees. I live in Miami. The palm is not showing any other symptoms and it survived a hurricane in 2017 which surprised me. I have search all over the internet and haven’t found a solution.

Palm Trees losing bark

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Palm Trees losing bark

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