How to Prune a Palm

Palm trees are desirable landscape plants for their tropical appearance, ease of care and impressive size. Even slow-growing palms have a distinctive presence, such as the "windmill" palm (Trachycarpus fortunei), which has a rough, fuzzy trunk. Palm trees are different from many trees in that they do not often have to be pruned in order to remain healthy, according to the University of California Extension's Contra Costa Master Gardeners. In fact, too much pruning can damage and even kill a palm tree. For that reason, it is best to err on the side of caution when pruning a palm.

Pruning clippers, shears or tools of choice

Thick gloves

Bucket of bleach

Ladder (if necessary)

Examine the tree and select only the completely dead fronds for pruning. Leave fronds that are not completely dead (even if they are turning brown or yellow) on the tree, as they provide nourishment to the trunk and the roots, according to the Contra Costa Master Gardeners.

Prune off the dead fronds close to the trunk, but do not get so close that you nick or damage the trunk, or cut the covering of the trunk. This is especially important in the case of cold-hardy palms, as the fibers on the trunk protect it from freezes.

Pull out the petioles. These are the structures that hold the leaves onto the tree. They are found at the base of the fronds. If they are loose, you can simply pull them off, but stop if sap starts to ooze from the tree.

Clip or pull off rotten fruit and dead flowers. This is usually done last, as removal of the fronds makes it easier to access the flowers and fruit.

Dispose of the dead fronds rather than leaving them on the ground. If the fronds have a fungal disease, it will overwinter in the soil and infect the tree again the next spring. Sterilize your pruning tools by dipping them in bleach before pruning another palm tree to reduce the chances of spreading diseases.

If your palm is tall, you might consider hiring a professional rather than trying to climb a ladder.