What is a 'hurricane cut' and why is it harmful?

A hurricane cut removes all but the top few fronds, leaving the palm looking like a feather duster. Despite the name, it actually makes palms more vulnerable to wind by concentrating all load at the very top of the trunk and stressing the tree's nutrient supply. Proper pruning removes only dead, dying, and brown fronds.

How often should palms be pruned?

Most Florida palms benefit from pruning once a year — typically in spring before hurricane season — to clear the prior year's dead fronds and seed pods. Over-pruning is far more common than under-pruning across Central Florida.

Do you remove the boots around the trunk?

Yes, upon request. Boot removal gives palms a clean, polished look and eliminates nesting habitat for rodents and other pests. It's often bundled with standard pruning for a single visit.

Are you insured for elevated palm work?

Yes — Lunn Woodland Services carries general liability insurance. Certificate of Insurance available upon request. All elevated palm work is performed with climbing harnesses, lanyards, and proper personal fall protection.

Palm Tree Pruning

Proper Palm Care — Done Right, Not Just Fast

Palm trees are among the most misunderstood trees in Florida. Over-pruning — commonly called a 'hurricane cut' — actually increases vulnerability to wind damage and disease rather than reducing it. Our crews remove only dead and dying fronds, seed pods, and boots, leaving the green canopy intact to protect the trunk and maintain structural integrity. All elevated work is performed with professional climbing equipment and personal fall protection. We serve palm-heavy communities throughout Davenport, Kissimmee, Clermont, Winter Haven, Haines City, and all of Central Florida.

General Liability Insurance

Lunn Woodland Services carries general liability insurance. Certificate of Insurance available upon request.

Safety & Industry Standards

Every crew member wears full PPE. Every cut follows OSHA safety regulations and ANSI A300 industry pruning standards. No shortcuts.

Site Assessment First

We evaluate hazards, establish safe zones, and plan the work before any equipment starts.

What's Included

Dead frond and seed pod removal
Boot and skirt removal for clean appearance
Proper pruning — no destructive hurricane cuts
Work at height with climbing gear and fall protection
Reduces nesting habitat for pests and rodents
Single palms or entire property
Fully insured — commercial liability on every visit

Free, No-Obligation Estimate

We assess your property, explain the work needed, and provide a written estimate — at no cost to you.

Common Questions

Our Other Services

Tree Removal

Trimming & Pruning

Storm Cleanup

Emergency Services

Land Clearing

Forestry Mulching

Stump Grinding

Debris Removal

Lot Clearing

HOA & Commercial

Lawn & Landscaping

Pressure Washing

Ready to Get Started?

Free estimates, fully insured crews, and professional results — every job, every time.