Palms and Dates calls on palm owners to inspect them periodically to prevent red palm weevil

2026-07-04T17:45:35.422Z

The National Center for Palms and Dates called on palm owners and farmers to conduct periodic inspections of palm trees, noting that early detection of the red palm weevil is the most important factor in preventing and limiting its spread. It explained that the most dangerous stage of the pest is the larval stage, which threatens the life of the palm by cutting off the vessels that transport food and water.

The National Center for Palms and Dates called on palm owners and farmers to conduct periodic inspections of their palms, emphasizing that early detection is the most important factor in preventing the red palm weevil and limiting its spread, thereby contributing to the protection of agricultural wealth and maintaining palm productivity.

The center explained that infestation begins with female red palm weevils being attracted to the kairomone scent emitted by the palm, especially when there are wounds from pruning or offshoot removal, as they lay their eggs inside these openings, and the larvae begin to feed on the internal tissues of the palm.

The center noted that the larval stage is the most dangerous in the pest's life cycle, as larvae feed on soft tissues inside the trunk, forming wide, interlacing tunnels that cut off the vessels carrying water and food, directly threatening the palm's life.

The center stated that periodic inspections should focus on several key points, most notably: fresh wounds from pruning or offshoot removal, the bases of fronds, aerial offshoots, as well as palms that have previously sustained injuries or cracks that were not properly treated.

The center emphasized that continuous inspection and early reporting of any signs of suspicion contribute to prompt treatment, limiting the spread of the pest, and preserving agricultural wealth and palm productivity.