Poor maintenance and wrong species cause trees to fall ill in Panama City

Dozens of trees in Panama City are falling ill due to insufficient maintenance, including neglect in pruning, felling, and fertilization. Specialists highlight that certain tree species are inherently less resistant to pests and fungi, raising concerns about potential falls and public safety risks.

The issue is compounded by the planting of trees not suited for urban environments. While Panama boasts at least 2,000 species, not all are appropriate for city beautification. Experts recommend species like Altromeria, Flamboyan, Roble, Guayacán, Weeping Willow, Coffee Tree, and Palms.

"It's not just about planting for the sake of planting," experts emphasize, stressing the critical importance of soil quality. Identifying a sick tree can be challenging, but visible signs include leaf spots, dry leaves, and completely dead branches. If a tree loses its leaves due to disease, the damage is severe, likely necessitating its removal.

Accurate diagnosis often requires a tomography scan to assess the tree's internal condition. Authorities acknowledge that budgetary limitations sometimes lead to neglected maintenance, allowing problems to escalate. There is a growing call to prioritize urban forestry to mitigate risks and maintain a healthy tree population in the capital.

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It's not just about planting for the sake of planting.