Soil Mix Formula for Sago Palms

Not a Palm

• The sago palm shares a closer relationship to conifers and other cone-bearing trees than it does to any palm. Its appearance causes the confusion, with thick, dark green fronds segmented like a palm. This cycad originates from Asia, and while adapted to heavy clay and sandy soils, it does encounter a few pest problems. Sago palms, like other conifers, reproduce via insects and the wind, which carry the male spores to female plants.

Fertilizing

• Spotting and yellowing on the fronds shows that the sago palm needs fertilizer and micronutrients. Deficiencies cause various responses such as frizzle top. Regular fertilizing programs include magnesium, nitrogen, potassium and manganese. For those plants in sandier regions, fertilization is necessary because of quick water runoff. Nutrients don't remain long in sandy soil. Epsom salts helps to prevent deficiencies. Add dry salts to the soil around the base of the sago palm. Some growers use regular lime applications to keep the soil slightly acidic.

Frizzle Top

• Frizzle top occurs in manganese-deficient sago palms. The deficiency causes new fronds to become dry, shredded and frizzy looking. Increases in pH levels decrease the availability of manganese. If frizzle top is left untreated, the damage might be irreversible. A deficiency in magnesium occasionally accompanies frizzle top, but ultimately does far less damage. A spray of manganese sulfate directly onto the leaves in early fall helps to keep frizzle top under control. Trim dead fronds at their base.

Problems

• Sago palms develop stem rot when the soil is poorly drained and not sandy enough. Pests such as mealybugs and scale insects have the potential to develop into a serious condition. These plants are difficult to treat with a pesticide because the size and positioning of the fronds inhibits full coverage with a spray. A further problem is burning of the fronds. This occasionally happens with direct sun and high temperatures. These plants, considered highly toxic, are best avoided in areas with children and pets.