Ok to trim cordyline leaves?

Bamboozled

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I've got some cordyline that I'd like to shape and reduce in size:
IMG_2874.PNG

Seems like cutting them at the base of the stem/leaves is ok, but I'm wondering about trimming the leaves from current size (red) to green like this:


Cord1.png

Any issues with this? Thanks for any feedback!
 

oneeye

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Hello friend. The best time of year to prune cordyline is during the spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Pruning at this time will encourage the plant to produce new growth and will help to shape the plant. Avoid pruning during the autumn or winter, as this can damage the plant and make it more susceptible to frost damage.
 

cpp gardener

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It’s a lot of work and you end up with brown edges where you cut. It would be better to remove any old brown leaves and let it grow. Just removing the brown ‘skirt’ will change the look dramatically.
 

Bamboozled

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Hello friend. The best time of year to prune cordyline is during the spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Pruning at this time will encourage the plant to produce new growth and will help to shape the plant. Avoid pruning during the autumn or winter, as this can damage the plant and make it more susceptible to frost damage.
Makes sense, thanks. I'll wait a bit before taking this on.
It’s a lot of work and you end up with brown edges where you cut. It would be better to remove any old brown leaves and let it grow. Just removing the brown ‘skirt’ will change the look dramatically.
Good idea, I'll remove the skirt first and see how it looks- thanks.
 

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