By tradition, the branches of the palm of the Phoenix species are used in functions over the Easter festivities.

The Department for Plant Health points out that attention must be given to the Canary Palm (Phoenix canariensis) which locally is one of the most susceptible species to the Red Palm Weevil. This species is among the largest of the palm trees to grow and can grow to a height of 15 meters.

Legal notice 42 of 2009 provides that, the pruning of palm trees requires the permission of the Department for Plant Health. The palm trees branches that have been pruned should be sprayed with the appropiate pesticides after pruning. This treatment must be repeated three consecutive times to protect the trees. All palms from which branches are to be taken have to be registered with the Plant Health Department.

The branches should be cut as small as possible to reduce the infection which is generally concentrated in the lower part of the branch. Moreover, fresh cuts have to be covered so as not to attract the weevils.

In order to control this disease, the Department for Plant Health urges the cooperation of the public in these actions so that these trees can be enjoyed by future generations.

For more information and guidance the public should contact the Department for Plant Health on 23397545 or freephone 80072310. Email plantquarantine@gov.mt or visit the site www.planthealth.gov.mt

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