![How NOT to prune Mexican Fan Palms!](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/1z5SVHrU_wg/hqdefault.jpg)
Content
- Are you allowed to cut a fan palm?
- You must never cut a fan palm
- Cut brown or yellow leaves
- Always remove the stub on the palm trunk
- Cut side shoots to increase the fan palm
- Tips
Dry and sick leaves can be removed at any time
Are you allowed to cut a fan palm?
The fan palm is never cut back like all palm species. The removal of dried, yellow or kinked leaves is occasionally necessary, but must be done with care. What you have to consider when cutting fan palms.
You must never cut a fan palm
Fan palms have only one growing point. If you cut this, the palm will come in at worst. Therefore, you must never simply cut off the tip of a fan palm.
Since a fan palm can reach a considerable size, you should consider the space requirements, if you want to maintain this palm in the house.
Cut brown or yellow leaves
A few brown or yellow leaves develop the fan palm ever. This is a natural process and not worrisome. If many fronds turn brown or dry, you should check the location and care of the fan palm and also look for pests.
You may cut discolored, dried or kinked leaves. The best time to cut the fronds is just before the winter break, before you bring the plant to the winter quarters or prepare for the winter in the field.
Use a sharp knife that you have cleaned well before, so you do not transmit disease germs or pests to the palm. Cut the fronds directly on the trunk and do not leave any stubs.
Always remove the stub on the palm trunk
Occasionally the fan palm loses leaves. It usually remains a small remnant of the Wedelstiels on the trunk. It is important to remove it as the remnants allow moisture and bacteria to enter the plant. By cutting, you prevent the palm from getting sick.
Cut side shoots to increase the fan palm
Fan palms are usually propagated by seeds. Occasionally side shoots form next to the main trunk. These you can cut to use as cuttings for the propagation of the fan palm.
The cuttings are cut in spring. Put the shoots in pots with potting soil and keep them moderately moist and warm.
Tips
Livistona palms are often added to the fan palms, although in this case they are umbrella palms. The care of these two types of palm trees is similar, Livistona you must not cut back.