Fronds to remove from a sabal palmetto
A sabal palmetto needs only completely dead, loose, badly damaged, or diseased fronds removed. Clemson Extension palm care guidance
Keep a frond when its leaf stalk remains green. Clemson Extension palm care guidance
Cut each leaf base close to the trunk without cutting into the trunk. Clemson Extension palm care guidance
Why over-trimming harms a palm
Over-trimming removes green fronds that the palm uses for photosynthesis. Clemson Extension tree pruning guidance
Removing green fronds may harm the palm’s growth and development. Clemson Extension tree pruning guidance
Never remove fronds above the horizontal line across the crown. Clemson Extension palm care guidance
Palm trimming before hurricane season
Proper pruning before hurricane season can remove hazardous growth and improve wind resistance. Clemson Extension hurricane-resistant tree guidance
Palm trimming cannot make any palm storm-proof. Clemson Extension hurricane-resistant tree guidance
Request palm trimming
Request palm trimming with the property address, palm location, and visible concerns.
Note nearby roofs, fences, driveways, and walkways in the request.
Palm trimming questions
Which fronds should I remove from a palm in Surfside Beach?
Remove only completely dead, loose, badly damaged, or diseased fronds.
Why does over-trimming harm a palm?
Removing green fronds reduces photosynthesis and may harm the palm's growth and development.
Should I trim my palm before hurricane season?
Proper pruning before hurricane season can remove hazardous growth, but it cannot make a palm storm-proof.