SAGO PLAM 

​

Batanicle Name:  (Cycas revoluta)

The sago palm (Cycas revoluta) is a popular houseplant known for its feathery foliage and ease of care.  In fact, this is a great plant for beginners and makes an interesting addition to nearly any room.  Grow the Sago in or outdoors in low to medium light or in the shade to part sun.  While the name might imply that it is a palm, this plant is a cycad, one of the oldest groups of plants dating back to prehistoric times — hence the plant’s hardiness.

Sago palms are easy to care for but do require special needs, such as medium to bright light, although they will tolerate low-light conditions.  What they will not tolerate, however, is too much moisture.  Sago palms prefer to be situated in well-drained soil, cycad plants, they do not respond well to overwatering.  In fact, too much water can quickly lead to root rot and eventual cause the plant to die.  Therefore, water sparingly, it’s best to allow the plant to dry out some between watering.  Sago palm plants also require regular fertilizing monthly to ensure vigorous health and encourage sago palm blooms.  Although, these plants might take 15 years before they bloom in containers (if at all), at which time the sago palm blooms only about every third year (on average).  This often takes place in late spring.

Problems with Sago Palms, while sago palms, for the most part, are problem-free plants, you may on occasion encounter problems with sago palms.  One of the most common complaints is sago palm yellowing.  However, as is the case with most cycads, this is a normal reaction as the plant conserves nutrients — with older leaves turning yellow and then brown.  On the other hand, if sago palm yellowing occurs with new growth, this could signal a nutrient deficiency. Insects can be another factor, as these plants are well known for harboring pests like scale bugs. Newly planted sago palms that suffer from yellowing may be the result of improper planting or poor drainage
 

Sagos Are Poisonous!

All parts of the sago palm are extremely poisonous.  Most breeds of dogs stay away from these plants.  Our cocker spaniels, beagle, and two Jack Russels lived their whole lives with the sago palm in the backyard.  But when in doubt, rip it out.  Also, always wear gloves when working closely with these plants and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.