We purchased a home last year that has this massive succulent. It was covered in vines (I removed and ended up in the urgent care due to the sap of the tree) and has had no care from previous owners. I have cut back several branches over the year but it is out of control. The branches are so thick that I have no clue how to trim it all back. The sap is like glue and no one (other than me) will approach the tree due to its toxicity. I think she is fabulous! However, I need it trimmed back and have no clue how to do it. How do you cut a branch with glue-like sap??? I appreciate any advice regarding how to trim and care for this old gal.
by Beneficial-Walk1237
3 Comments
Wear long sleeves and long pants. Wear elbow length rubber gloves. Wear larger leather gloves over the rubber gloves. Eye protection and a mask for extra measure. Cut until you get it to a manageable/acceptable size.
Wash your hands thoroughly after carefully removing the gloves. Change clothes and shoes.
There are more detailed ways of dressing/undressing to keep from contacting the sap but you probably get the idea
A good pair of pruning snips, a large set of loppers, and a good pruning saw. Corona makes very good tools and can usually be found at hardware stores. I use them all the time.
I don’t have any magic tips. You could try cutting out small wedges so the blade hangs up less. I would probably go with an axe on the trunk. I wouldn’t use a chainsaw but you might try a reciprocating saw with a wood blade