Can Termites Kill a Palm Tree?
WouterTermites are wood-eating insects that feed on cellulose. They live in tropical and subtropical regions. Generally, they prefer living trees that have little tolerance for damage. These types of trees include palm trees, citrus, avocado, and peach.
Palm tree termites are most active at the roots. They also eat the bark of the tree and sometimes gird the trunk crown. Occasionally, the termite holes will ooze a liquid through the trunk. These holes may appear suddenly, or they may continue to grow. If you notice these signs of a termite infestation, you should act quickly.
A good way to kill termites is to spread a powder of diatomaceous earth on the infested tree. You can apply this on the roots, the trunk, and any area where termites are known to be present. It is important to spread this powder close to the tree, but do not cover it with mulch or other debris.
Another way to kill termites is to use a liquid termiticide. This can be purchased from a home improvement store. You should spray the liquid in a three-foot radius around the infected tree.
If you do not wish to use a termiticide, there are several natural remedies that can be used. You can spray orange oil on the infected tree, or apply a mixture of distilled white vinegar and lemon juice. These ingredients work by killing the termites on contact. However, they are not as effective against large palm tree colonies.
