What part of a palm should not be decapitated to avoid killing the plant?

The crown of the palm, which includes the growing point and young leaves, is crucial for the plant's health and continued growth. Decapitating the crown, or cutting off the top where the new leaves emerge, effectively removes the plant's main growth area. This action can lead to the palm's demise, as it disrupts the plant's ability to photosynthesize and produce energy necessary for survival.

The leaves, while important for photosynthesis, can be pruned without killing the palm, as the plant can continue to grow new leaves from the crown if it remains intact. The base of the palm is also important but serves a different function, mainly in stability and nutrient uptake from the roots. Roots are essential for water and nutrient absorption but do not play a direct role in the immediate growth of leaves. Hence, maintaining the integrity of the crown is vital for the palm’s longevity and health.