Pestalotiopsis leaf spot

The easiest way to prevent Pestalotiopsis in plants is to keep palms healthy and leaves dry. Water is the most damaging to palm leaves by leaving them too moist or wet, where they can develop wounds. This can be prevented by watering carefully and allowing space between each palm to allow air circulation. Pruning the diseased leaves is key to stopping the spread of Pestalotiopsis. However, removing the palm is the best option if the palm plant is a junior and has few leaves. Ensuring the nutrient value of the plant’s soil is also important to prevent this disease. Too few nutrients can create wounds in leaves, allowing Pestalotiopsis to form.

Unfortunately, this disease will last the life of the infected leaf. Fungicides will not remove spots once they take hold but are used to prevent further spreading. Pruning the dead leaves can be beneficial as long as the plant has plenty of nutrients to cope with the loss of its leaves. When managed properly, Pestalotiopsis will not kill healthy, mature plants.