Should I bother trying to separate these king palms?

[Fresnotropics]

I’d like to split this in half or even in thirds, but I worry I’ll be doing more harm than good. I know palm roots are resilient, but would separating add undue stress that would ultimately result in a struggling palm? In interior ca I don’t quite have the ideal climate, so they’ll already be braving hotter than preferred summers.

 

thanks for any advice!

[enigma99]

Yes, take the best 3 you want to save, cut the others and toss em in the trash. Don't dig at all or the whole thing is toast. Or just leave it alone

Edited March 3, 2020 by enigma99

[Fresnotropics]

Damn. No chance of any removed surviving? How big of a growth rate difference would 1 vs 3 vs 5 be? 

[enigma99]

No chance of survival. I think 3 or less look the best and growth rate shouldn’t matter much

[GottmitAlex]

39 minutes ago, enigma99 said:

No chance of survival. I think 3 or less look the best and growth rate shouldn’t matter much

This.

[Fresnotropics]

Thanks guys 

[Stevetoad]

Yep. King palms are root sensitive. Just digging one to transplant usually kills them. 

[enigma99]

4 minutes ago, Fresnotropics said:

Thanks guys 

And make sure you keep the ground wet 365 days a year if you want your growth rate to be good. If they ever dry out for an extended amount of time, they go into shock for a year or longer. Can't overwater them

[Fresnotropics]

Well thankfully I consulted you guys first... I was just about to grab the sawzall lol