Question
I have 3 different sago palms 1 is about 10 years old how do you get new sago growth off the older trunk ? it looks like another sago growing off of it, this one is planted in the ground.#2 these 2 segos are in pots the small spear like leaves are falling off? Thank You! Mark Scott


Answer
Hi Mark

Good questions.  When the nutrient supply of Sago's is inhibited by systemic scale, bacteria, fungus etc.  Sometimes we see irregular growth that will emerge from different places on the trunk. Various species of trees will do this after a serious infestation followed by a die back.  You will see a sprout growing out at the base of the tree.  To get the growth off of the trunk you can just clip it off as long as you dont damage the heart or center of the plant.   

Usually it is normal for the Sago to have pups around the base of the plant.  These can be transplanted.  

The smaller ones you speak of probably have a systemic infection and the limbs are falling off due to a nutrient cut off.

There is a new product that Dr. Stamps is testing at the University of Florida on 4 different types of Cycads and one of them is the Sago palm.  The testing is going very well.  The product is Atomic Grow and it is a systemic cleanser for all plants.  

I have used it for 7 years in commercial grounds maintenance and it is just now being offered to the public.

go to www.atomicgrow.net

Your Sagos will be the talk of the neighborhood.

Good Luck

James