How to trim giant bird of paradise?

[BigWaveDave]

I'm looking to get the really nice clean looking trunks but only have a slight idea on how to do that.  The old leaf bases don't really want to just pull right off, so I'm thinking that I will need to use a knife.  Alot of the old leaf bases are old and brown, while the newest ones are green.  Should I only trim off the old and brown ones?  Any help is appreciated.

Thanks

David

[PalmsZA]

BigWave

Take a nice sharp knife (try to keep your fingers intact!) cut the leaf base down the middle, splitting it in two, then move your way around the stem until the entire boot is removed. These things are so tough you can leave 6 leaves or so in the crown.

Cheers

Dennis