Troubleshooting
Blue Cycad problems — and how to fix them
Blue Cycad (Encephalartos nubimontanus) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Caudex and root rot
Overwatering or poor drainage causes the caudex to soften and collapse. Remove all rotted tissue with sterile tools, dust liberally with sulphur or a copper fungicide, allow to air-dry for at least 3–5 days, and replant in very gritty, dry mix. Reduce watering severely for the following 3 months.
Loss of blue coloration
Fronds may flush greener than expected if light is insufficient or nitrogen levels are too high. Ensure maximum available light and avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers. The distinctive blue waxy bloom is a genetic feature enhanced by high light intensity and appropriate feeding with a balanced cycad formula.
Cycad scale (Aulacaspis yasumatsui)
Tiny white armoured scale that can rapidly colonise all surfaces, weakening and ultimately killing the plant. Inspect closely and regularly, particularly on the undersides of leaflets. Treat with repeated horticultural oil sprays and systemic insecticide drench if needed. Quarantine new acquisitions before introducing them to a collection.
Prevent blue cycad problems before they start
Most blue cycad issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for blue cycad in general rather than its problems? Read the full blue cycad care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Blue Cycad problems — FAQ
Why is my blue cycad caudex and root rot?
Overwatering or poor drainage causes the caudex to soften and collapse. Remove all rotted tissue with sterile tools, dust liberally with sulphur or a copper fungicide, allow to air-dry for at least 3–5 days, and replant in very gritty, dry mix. Reduce watering severely for the following 3 months.
Why is my blue cycad loss of blue coloration?
Fronds may flush greener than expected if light is insufficient or nitrogen levels are too high. Ensure maximum available light and avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers. The distinctive blue waxy bloom is a genetic feature enhanced by high light intensity and appropriate feeding with a balanced cycad formula.
Why is my blue cycad cycad scale (aulacaspis yasumatsui)?
Tiny white armoured scale that can rapidly colonise all surfaces, weakening and ultimately killing the plant. Inspect closely and regularly, particularly on the undersides of leaflets. Treat with repeated horticultural oil sprays and systemic insecticide drench if needed. Quarantine new acquisitions before introducing them to a collection.