Xtremehorticulture

Remove Sago Palm Brown Fronds or Not?

Q. I’m sending pictures of the Sago palm I transplanted. The
top ring of fronds died after I transplanted it but remain on the plant. I left
this brown ring of fronds around the crown of the plant and it looks like new
growth coming from the center is okay. Should I trim off the dead fronds
without disturbing the crown or just let them fall off?
Leaves yellowing and turning brown on Sago palm after transplanting
Healthy central Bud of Sago balm that will push new green fronds when it starts growing. The older fronds can be clipped off or left on. It’s up to you.
A. That’s an aesthetic decision more than a plant health
decision. I can’t think of a reason why removal of dead fronds would affect the
plant one way or another. Someone might claim possible “disease” problems that
might emerge, but I don’t know of any.
            Another
option is to “paint” the fronds a green color with one of the green
plant paints or dyes used for lawns and make the dead brown fronds appear green
and look alive or just remove them. There are several paints or dyes available
on the market. Your call on that.
            Personally,
I would cut them off and let the growth from the center take over as it emerges
the spring and in following years. Remove the dead fronds to within about half
inch or less of that center crown. The brown, dead fronds will probably stay
there for several years or until they’re removed. But that’s my call on your
situation.

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