Palm trees typically do not require much maintenance throughout a lifespan. However, skinning palm trees once a year is essential for the overall health of the trees. So, what can you do when the trunk is damaged? Let’s look at a few different scenarios below.
Single-Trunk Palms
Severing off the growing tip or ‘crownshaft’ of any single-trunk palm species will ultimately terminate the tree altogether. The trunk will not be able to sprout a new growing tip in place of the now severed crownshaft. Without the extra foliage to synthesize the incoming light, the palm will soon grow weak and begin to rot. If you cut the top off any single-trunk palm species, the next step is to simply plant a new tree in its place.
A few examples of single-trunk palms include the Royal palm, Christmas palm, Cabbage palm and Mexican Fan palm. All of these trees are great options for homeowners looking to grow palms.
Clustering Palms
Clustering palms are very unique, growing multiple trunk stems. This means you will be able to shave away some trunks without killing the plant. If the individual palm trunk is removed solely, the plant will not be able to heal on its own. If you happen to cut the trunks close to root level, suckering explodes here and eventually sprouts into new palm tree trunks.
The suckering process and rejuvenation happens only in the case of a healthy clustering palm. Diseased or distressed palms may not always create new suckers, which results in the plant’s demise.
Palm Tree Trunk Wounds
Palm trees lack cambium, naturally. This is a layer of tissue behind the tree bark, creating the growth rings seen on the tree. Any wound inflicted on the trunk cannot repair itself, meaning the wounds will remain on the palm for the rest of its life.
These wounds can become dry and brittle unless weather conditions include a plethora of rainfall or high humidity. Both insects and fungal infections can penetrate these trees, causing massive damage to the articular system, in some cases.
Palm Tree Pruning
There are many factors that come into play during the pruning process. First, it’s always important to refrain from severing the downshaft on the palm. Experts recommend removing just the exact right amount of fronds. Do not introduce any sort of diseases to these plants.
Palm tree pruning can certainly become a difficult task that is best left to the professionals. If you wish to do this yourself, then it’s recommended to only remove broken fronds that are dead with no color left to them.
Phoenix Valley Palm Tree for Sale
If you’re looking for the best stock of palm trees in the valley A&P Nursery can help! With 4 east valley locations our team can help you find the perfect trees and plants to take your landscape from ordinary to extraordinary. In addition to selling trees and plants we partner with companies that will plant your trees or plants and care for them as long as you wish. That means all you need to do to get your landscape looking it’s best is stop by and browse our trees, choose your favorite, and leave the rest of the work to the pros.
Call or stop by one of our 4 locations today!
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