Question
Purchased two majestic palms back in June.  They are approx. 4-5' tall with multiple shoots.  They are each planted in very large (7-8 Gallon) ceramic planters, that we filled 1/2 way with aluminum cans for drainage and weight.  They have done great on our patio so far this summer. although one of them that sits very near to our house continues to get brown dead looking spots on its branches they have each produced two new shoots up out of the middle.  They are watered just about everyday.  Should I prune the outer branches and if so how?  Also the tag said they were hardy to I think 40 degrees, I live in Ohio, so these will obviously have to come in this winter.  Our evenings are getting cooler (55), Can they tollerate a little cold at night when it is still reaching 85 during the day.
Thanks, Tim
I read your other response about how difficult they are to keep alive in-doors I'll do my best

Answer
Hi Tim,

Your majesty palm should be okay with temps down to 40-45 degrees at night as long as the temperatures decline is gradual. Below 40 degrees is risky and certainly requires altering your watering routines as growth rate and water use will decline with the temps.

Pruning off discolored fronds is a matter of appearance, not plant health. If it looks ugly, then remove it. Sometimes just trimming a portion of a frond is sufficient. Other times, it's necessary to cut off the entire frond at the base where it separates from the other fronds.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.
   
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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