Question
Late summer or early last fall I planted 3 small Queen Palms (6-8') tall. Are doing ok , but during one extremely cold night the taller fronds suffered some freeze/frost burns that now have turned these lacy fronds to a brown colored leaves. Should these be trimmed back? trimmed off?? what degree of trim??? I hate to give up the longer lacy fronds, but not sure these particulat fronds will "heal" or should I wait for the new growth??
Please help. These are such lovely trees and I do not want to deform them if not required.
Thanks
Duane Jones
McIntosh, Fl. 32664

Answer
Hi Duane, the rule of thumb with Queens is if the frond has any green or even yellow in it, it is functioning, it is helping the palm with photosynthesis, so leave it be; if the frond is totally brown, then trim it up snug against the trunk but don't cut into the trunk. Mother nature will take care of your palm, as far as the cold damage,so wait until next month to get a clearer picture of what needs to be taken off. Bottom line, let it be for now, unless the frond is entirely brown.....regards Nick:)