Unlike many other plants, cutting back the green fronds won’t help with growth.
In fact, pruning healthy fronds will just minimize food production and ultimately weaken the tree.
Otherwise, most of your pruning will be to remove brown fronds, as well as flowers and fruits.
The Spruce / Almar Creative
The best time to prune is in the spring, especially prior to hurricane and fire season.
However, if it’s crucial that you climb a ladder, you should consider hiring anarborist.
Note whether any fronds are completely brown.
The Spruce / Almar Creative
Also, note whether any fronds have been broken and are at risk of falling.
Likewise, look for fronds that are too close to structures.
Finally, check for fruits and flowers, and put them on the to-prune list.
The Spruce / Almar Creative
Some palm trees are known as self-cleaning.
They include king palms andKentia palms.
Plan the Prune
Determine the tools you’ll need.
The Spruce / Almar Creative
In most cases for DIY palm tree pruning, this will include a pruning saw and hand pruners.
Bring out a step stool if necessary.
Make the Cuts
Cut fronds at least 2 inches from the trunk.
The Spruce / Almar Creative
This will prevent damage to the trunk that can introduce pests and diseases.
As you remove fronds, fruits and flowers will be easier to see.
So be on the lookout for any that you hadn’t previously noted in your tree inspection.
The Spruce / Almar Creative
Clean Up
Responsibly dispose of your pruning waste.
Many areas have special instructions regarding palm waste.
