Q.Yucca Plants
I have several yucca plants growing for over 38 years. They look brown and require a lot of cutting. Can I just chop them down, as I do have new sprouts coming back which I can leave alone? I do not want to destroy them, just clean them out the easiest way. I usually take scissors and cut the dead leaves out if I can’t pull. When you say prune at stalk, can I do it close to bottom with an axe? Thanks.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It should be ok to do this but make sure it's a clean cut and the axe (or saw) is sharp. Jagged cuts or dull blades can make plants more susceptible to disease/pest problems. For the most part, yucca plants have an extensive root system and will continue to grow long after the plant has been cut or even removed. These plants are fairly tough, so I have no doubt that the plant will bounce back.
