Steffen Jacobson, Manager, Architectural and Landscape Committee
The best time of year to trim palm trees is after mid-June. This is the best time to remove seeds which are forming and any dead leaves or fronds. While removing the brown dead fronds keeps palms looking their best, professional palm tree trimmers will leave as much green as possible for the appearance and health of the tree. Avoid inexperienced palm tree trimming as it can lead to the death of your palm.
How to Prune Palm Trees—step-by-step
Step 1: Inspect the Tree
Removing old or dead palm tree leaves—called fronds—should be at the top of your pruning list. If the fronds are yellow or brown on the outside they may be harboring pests underneath. Also, check stems for flowers or fruit. Both can slow tree growth by providing food or shelter for pests. You don’t want pests to become a serious problem for your trees, or else you may have to hire an exterminator or a pest control team to get rid of them. However, if this is necessary for you, you can visit this site for more information on how to get a pest control team to help you. However, if you’re not based in Minneapolis like the above exterminator, West Virginia Terminix are able to rid you of your pest problem.
Step 2: Plan the Prune
Before you begin, remember this key palm tree trimming tip: prune only to remove old fronds, flowers, fruit or hazardous limbs.
Trimming beyond that creates a thin and narrow “hurricane cut” that’s not good for the health or look of your tree. Palm trees need a full, circular canopy of healthy, green fronds to continue to grow and defend against pests.
Step 3: The Precise Prune
Depending on the size of your palm tree, pruning shears or a saw will do the job. If you need to trim tall palm trees, call in a certified arborist. Attempting to climb a ladder, while carrying pruning tools, puts you in danger.
If you’re trimming a small palm tree, carefully prune fronds, flowers and fruit leaving at least two inches of greenery on the trunk.
Working your way down, gently pull off loose blades—called petioles—from the trunk. If the petiole is hard to remove, leave it be.
Step 4: Inspect the Result of Your Efforts
Mix up a cocktail or pour a large glass of your favorite drink. Set up a chair that gives you a good view of your palm tree. Have a seat, take a sip and enjoy the fruits of your labor!