Question
Sago leaf
Hi Will,
I bought a new sago palm a couple of months back and it's leaves seem to be turning yellow from the inside. I checked for other abnormalities and didn't find any. I water it lightly once every week. I haven't found any insects yet but I haven't checked the roots either. Is this a sign of nutrition deficiency? I mean its just got 4 fronds and I'm not sure if I should treat it with fertilizers at such an early stage. However, if it does need some kind of nutrition , what are some good fertilizers I need to buy?
Thanks.
Kind Regards,
Sitaram.
AnswerHi Sitaram,
There are several possible causes of this yellowing.
First, check for spider mites by misting the plant with a fine spray and then looking to see if fine webs between teh needles catch the water droplets. The existence of fine webs is a sure indication of spider mites. Treat the mites by thoroughly spraying all leaf surfaces with soapy water.
Next, make sure you are providing adequate light. Sago Palms must be on a moderately sunny windowsill. In low light, they yellow and gradually die.
The pot looks to be a bit large for the size of the plant. An oversized pot keeps the soil from drying out properly within a week. That, in turn, can cause root rot.
If your local water supply is on the hard side, then that can effect the pH (acidity) of the soil and render the soil nutrients unavailable to the plant. If so, then use filtered or distilled water to flush through the soil several times and use only filtered or distilled water in the future. Once the pH problem is cleared up, then there will be plenty of nutrients available to the plant. No need for plant food or fertilizer.
I have written an article on plant pests and fertilizers that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at
[email protected].
Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.
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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC
