How to prune a cordyline?

[sandersj89]

I have a rather large cordyline/cabbage palm. It started life of with us in a window box in London many years ago and has survived 2 house moves. A few years ago it out grew it’s planter and I planted it direct in the ground, ever since it has gone mad and new stems have sprouted from the base.

The main trunk is about 13 to 15 foot tall and the side stems are about 6 foot tall. I need to reduce the size and height but do not want to risk loosing the plant. I have never pruned it before and have no idea if it is possible.

Anyone with any ideas?

Thanks

Jerry

[sandersj89]

[Roy Bham UK]

I have a Cordyline of similar size, I've only ever stripped the lower leaves exposing the trunk, more to give it a taller appearance, it has multiple heads and like yours a 7ft pup growing from the base.

I've seen a couple of specimens locally that have been pruned or air-layered as is mentioned in this link and they look stunning, I don't think I would be brave enough to tackle such a job as I only have the one and would hate to lose it. :-\

Have a read of this link and lets us know the outcome if you decide to give it the chop. :o ;D
http://www.briansgarden.com/questions/010210q.html

[sandersj89]

Thanks for the info Roy.

I have also found out from another forum that it can be done in the spring so the prunning saw will come out then.

One of the main reasons for reducing it a bit is it is shading my main greenhouse now!

Jerry