Expert: Nick McCann - 11/4/2009

Question
Is there any way one can stop the pods from growing, without harming the Queen Palm? They are very difficult to cut because they they are dangerous to reach and weigh around 50 lb give or take a few. And can damage plants or anything as far as that go's that is under the Palm. They are so messy after they have opened.  It's not just the mess they make, they also attract bees. Also, what can I do with the seeds in the pods,(are they good for anything)should I cut them before they pop open or after?  Are Palm tree growers interested in taking them?  
Hope you can help.  Thanks

Answer
I wish I had some good news for you , but the fact of the matter is, that all Queens develop seed pods and there is no market out there for the seeds, for they are really at the bottom of the totem pole when it comes to desirability; the only thing you can do to alleviate the headache, is cut them off just as they form, this will stop them from becoming "elephant tusks" to deal with later. Nick