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House Plants/How to trim a potted palm tree

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Expert: Tracy - 11/5/2009


Question
I have two large palm trees in pots and have to bring them indoors for the winter. can I trim them down some without causing them to die?

Answer
Hi Roberta,
  You can prune off or cut back individual palm fronds down on the body of a palm, but you cannot prune off the top growing tip on any stem. If you remove the top off of a palm stem, it will stop growing and will die.

I hope this helps. If you have any questions or need additional information please don't hesitate to ask.
          Thanks
              Tracy

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Tracy

Expertise

I have a great deal of experience with most foliage houseplants. I am knowledgeable and experienced in the care of many different kinds of houseplants as well as the pests and diseases common to houseplants. I have had a lot of experience and success with most propagation techniques. I am also knowledgeable and experienced with artificial lighting for plants. I can answer questions about all aspects of 'indoor gardening'. Not only questions about growing foliage plants and starting seeds under artificial plant lighting but also questions about artificial plant light system set up, supplemental artificial lighting and cost. ~ I can help identify plants accurately ONLY if you submit a picture of the plant with your question.~

Experience

I usually always have at least 70 houseplants at all times. I have done extensive research, education and have over 15 years of experience with houseplants, indoor gardening, interior landscaping and artificial plant lighting. About 30% of my houseplants are grown exclusively under artificial plant lighting. Many of the other houseplants that are growing in natural light are also given supplemental lighting using artificial plant light. I have 5 complete artificial plant light systems that I designed and built.

Organizations
I have done volunteer work for several local botanical gardens and conservatories.

Publications
I have written extensively about plants, all aspects of houseplant care, indoor gardening and artificial plant lighting. I have written many informational blogs, articles and 'plant care guides' for many websites, forums and some online horticultural communities.

Education/Credentials
I have extensive research, knowledge and experience on the care of houseplants, the different kinds of houseplants, pests and diseases common to houseplants, indoor gardening/landscaping and artificial plant lighting.

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