How to Prune Palms' Side Sprouts

Prune off newly developed side sprouts to control the clumping palm’s width. Cut off the sprouts at ground level. Use hand pruners to remove sprouts 1/2 inch in diameter and smaller, according to Clemson Cooperative Extension.

Cut through larger palm side sprouts using loppers. Employ loppers for sprouts up to 1 1/2 inch in diameter. Prune the sprout off at ground level.

Remove side sprouts forming a trunk using a pruning saw. Cut through trunks larger than 1 1/2 inch in diameter with the saw. Start the cut on the sprout’s trunk as close to ground level as possible.

Prune off unwanted trunks and side sprouts to create a multiple trunk specimen palm. Select three to seven main trunks to remain, as uneven numbers look more appealing than even ones. Remove larger trunks at ground level using a pruning saw or loppers. Trim off thinner side sprouts with hand pruners.

Maintain the clumping palm’s look and side sprout growth through regular pruning. Trim off newly developing side sprouts. Use hand pruners or loppers to cut the sprout off at ground level.