We love the tropical look of the palm trees that are superfluous here in Florida. From commercial properties to residential homes, palm trees can be found all over Florida, decorating our southern landscape. The trick is, how do you know when you should trim a palm tree? You don’t want to over prune a palm tree and cause it harm or inhibit its growth. On the other hand, if left unattended palm trees can become an eyesore and a hazard. Properly maintaining a palm tree is vital to its health and life-span. 

A general rule of thumb is to trim a tree when it’s in a dormant stage, making spring typically the best time to prune. Although, spring time is the prime pruning or trimming time, if you don’t have to trim your tree don’t! One of the wonderful aspects about palm trees is that they are incredibly low-maintenance, making them a great option for both commercial and residential properties. 

How to Tell if Your Tree Needs a Trim: 

• Brown fronds
• Flowers
• Fruit

Palm fronds can be sharp and dangerous, leaving cuts along your hands, legs, and arms if you’re not careful or are a novice tree trimmer, so make sure you use gloves and have the proper equipment! Take the palm frond that you want to trim and cut it at least two inches from the tree trunk. You’ll want to repeat this process with any dying, wilted, brown, or broken palm fronds. Try to leave as many fronds as possible on the tree, as over pruning could be detrimental to your palm tree. Once all your flowers and dead or broken fronds have been trimmed, make sure to clean up your area and water your tree well. Give your tree plenty of sun, water, and time in between trims. 

However, when the time comes to trim your palm tree you may want to call a professional. To keep you and your trees happy, healthy, and stress-free, allow Anderson Tree Care to help you ensure that your commercial and residential properties are looking beautiful year round!