CDMX to Replace Diseased Palm Trees With Native Species

Mexico City’s government launched the Comprehensive Palm Tree Care Program to remove 1,500 severely deteriorated or dead palm trees, replacing them with native species better suited to the region’s climate. The initiative aims to address the increasing vulnerability of palm trees to pests and diseases while improving urban environmental conditions.

According to city data, of the 15,000 palm trees in Mexico City, about 9,000 are dead or in severe decline, creating safety risks due to weakened trunks and roots. “Palm trees have become a risk to public safety due to their state of severe decline,” Mayor Clara Brugada said during a press conference.

Specialized teams from the city’s Ministry of Environment (SEDEMA) and the Ministry of Works and Services (SOBSE) will conduct inspections to identify and remove diseased palms. Approximately 200 workers will participate in the operation, which includes climbers, field assistants, and technicians.

“Worldwide, no effective control has been found to recover diseased palm trees. This is serious because pests, fungi and other organisms have outpaced us, and there is no scientifically proven way to combat them,” Brugada said. 

Removed palms will be replaced with native species such as duraznillo, tejocote and arrayan, which are better adapted to Mexico City’s environmental conditions and do not damage pavements with their root systems. Healthy palms will be monitored regularly to prevent further infestations and decline.

Palm trees were introduced to Mexico City from the Canary Islands in the early 20th century, but they have faced increasing threats in recent years. Research from UNAM indicates that widespread deterioration began around 2011, largely due to phytopathogenic fungi and other pests.

The government will recycle the trunks of the removed palm trees, processing the wood to create urban furniture for parks across the city. The program will continue beyond December until all palm trees diagnosed with severe decline or dead standing are removed and replaced. “The comprehensive palm tree care program seeks to control the phytosanitary epidemic, reduce its incidence and limit the spread of damage as much as possible,” Brugada stated.