Tom, i asked the UF agent Jim Davis if there were known cases in Sumter Co.
Kitty,
First, I need to see the palms in question.
TPPD has not yet been diagnosed in Sumter County. That is not to say it is not here, just the samples we sent in through the years of suspected palms that have TPPD have come up negative.
As the gentleman states, no one can 100% diagnose TPPD visually. Samples must be sent in to a lab for verification. However, there are signs and symptoms to look for. This is the case for other fatal diseases such as Ganoderma and Fusarium Wilt or severe nutrient deficiencies such as boron or abiotic disorders such as planting too deep or lightning.
Samples are $75 per sample, so if the gentleman or another homeowner wants to test their palms, there are procedures and submission guidelines to follow.
Sincerely,
Jim
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