Root wilt / kerala wilt — Coconut

Symptoms

The earliest characteristic symptom is flaccidity of the leaflets: they lose rigidity and appear limp or drooping. The leaflets bend or curve abnormally, often inward, producing a ribbed appearance. The affected frond may develop a cup-like or inward-curved shape because of the abnormal leaflet arrangement. Yellowing commonly begins at the leaflet tips and progresses towards the middle of the leaflets. Leaflet tissues may subsequently develop necrosis, producing brown or dead patches. The root system gradually deteriorates, with decay of roots contributing to declining palm vigour. The terminal portion of the trunk may become tapered, and newly produced leaves may be smaller than normal. Flowering may be delayed, and the number of inflorescences and nuts may decline. Buttons and immature nuts may shed abnormally. The palm gradually becomes weak and less productive.