Sago palm care: watering, light and repotting
Also called cycas, king sago · Cycas revoluta · Cycadaceae family
21 d in winter
How often to water the sago palm?
Allow about 10 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 21 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Every part is highly toxic, especially the seeds. It grows very slowly and dislikes too much water.
What light does it need?
The sago palm loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 4 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 45 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 2–5 ft (60 cm–1.5 m).
Toxic to pets and children. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Yellow new leaves
Cause: Too much water or a deficiency. What to do: Let the soil dry out and use a palm fertiliser.
No new growth
Cause: Normal growth. What to do: It often makes only one crown of leaves a year.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the sago palm?
About every 10 days in spring and summer, and every 3 weeks in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the sago palm?
The sago palm loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Should you mist the sago palm?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the sago palm?
Every 4 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the sago palm safe?
The sago palm is toxic to pets and to children if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach and, if it's eaten, call a vet or a poison control centre.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Fairly: the sago palm needs a little attention, mostly with watering and light. Nothing complicated with a reminder at the right time.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.