Troubleshooting
Eastern Cape Blue Cycad problems — and how to fix them
Eastern Cape Blue Cycad (Encephalartos horridus) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Cycad aulacaspis scale
Aulacaspis yasumatsui scale is a highly destructive armoured scale insect that coats leaves and the trunk with white deposits and can kill the plant within months — apply systemic insecticide and horticultural oil at the very first sign of infestation.
Crown and stem rot
This species is exceptionally sensitive to any excess moisture; Phytophthora and Pythium crown rot develop rapidly in wet or poorly ventilated conditions, destroying the single apical growing point and killing the plant.
Prevent eastern cape blue cycad problems before they start
Most eastern cape blue cycad issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Eastern Cape Blue Cycad problems — FAQ
Why is my eastern cape blue cycad cycad aulacaspis scale?
Aulacaspis yasumatsui scale is a highly destructive armoured scale insect that coats leaves and the trunk with white deposits and can kill the plant within months — apply systemic insecticide and horticultural oil at the very first sign of infestation.
Why is my eastern cape blue cycad crown and stem rot?
This species is exceptionally sensitive to any excess moisture; Phytophthora and Pythium crown rot develop rapidly in wet or poorly ventilated conditions, destroying the single apical growing point and killing the plant.