Prune madagascar palm

[cactusme]

Hi, ive had this cactus from about 3cm tall. As you can see, its not stopped growing, even though its been in this pot for many years. This season, the leaf growth is drying out and curling on the ends .
I'd like to either, cut it back to a more manageable size for the same pot........or cut, divide and hopefully, get 2 plants (if that's even possible).
I really have no idea where to start. Has anybody successfully done this ?
Thanks C

 

[oneeye]

Hello friend, you have enough of a plant to make plenty of cuttings. Cut the stem into pieces about 6 ot 12 inches or 15 ot 30 cm and let them set for a few days in the open air. Allowing this type of plant cuttings to callus over is crucial, after the cuttings callus over dip the cutting into rooting hormone and put them in a new succulent potting mix. Put your cuttings in a bright Sunny location and water lightly. Don't keep the substate wet or you will get root rot. In a couple weeks you should have roots.
Good luck and keep us posted.

 

[cactusme]

Hi Oneeye, thanks heaps for the info.
I've stood with Stanley knife in hand a couple of times, but thankfully my 'greenthumb fairies' had stopped me.
I had no idea on drying out and letting them callus over, so I'd have drowned them for sure.
I'm actually quite attached to it, and have no intention of selling.....but I've seen one of similar size for $700. Hence my hesitation to chop it.
Anyway, thankyou again for the detailed instructions. And hopefully I'll post pics of my new babies in a few weeks.
Happy gardening 🏜