Correct Pruning of Freeze-Damaged Sago Palms: Removing Brown Fronds Safely

Snip Only Fully Brown Fronds at the Trunk

Sago palms (Cycas revoluta) with all fronds brown after a Louisiana freeze: remove totally brown fronds at the trunk. They snap off easily. Do not touch the main trunk.

Clarification

"Main trunk" = the fat central stem. Fronds attach there. New growth emerges from the top of this trunk. Never cut the trunk itself.

Sago Size Note

Sagos max out ~8 ft tall. If yours are much taller, they may be a different cycad. Confirm ID for precise advice.