Troubleshooting
Moore's Cycad problems — and how to fix them
Moore's Cycad (Macrozamia moorei) 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.
Root and trunk rot (Phytophthora)
Waterlogged soil invites Phytophthora root rot, which causes the lower fronds to yellow and collapse followed by trunk softening. There is no cure once advanced; prevention through drainage is essential.
Frond-tip scorch
Brown, dried frond tips are usually caused by salt accumulation in the root zone (over-fertilising or hard tap water) or low humidity combined with dry soil. Flush the pot with clean water and trim scorched tips back to green tissue.
Cycad scale (Aulacaspis yasumatsui)
A highly damaging armoured scale that covers fronds and caudex in white waxy deposits. Treat with horticultural oil or a contact insecticide; repeat three times at 10-day intervals. Severe infestations can kill the plant.
Prevent moore's cycad problems before they start
Most moore's cycad issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Moore's Cycad problems — FAQ
Why is my moore's cycad root and trunk rot (phytophthora)?
Waterlogged soil invites Phytophthora root rot, which causes the lower fronds to yellow and collapse followed by trunk softening. There is no cure once advanced; prevention through drainage is essential.
Why is my moore's cycad frond-tip scorch?
Brown, dried frond tips are usually caused by salt accumulation in the root zone (over-fertilising or hard tap water) or low humidity combined with dry soil. Flush the pot with clean water and trim scorched tips back to green tissue.
Why is my moore's cycad cycad scale (aulacaspis yasumatsui)?
A highly damaging armoured scale that covers fronds and caudex in white waxy deposits. Treat with horticultural oil or a contact insecticide; repeat three times at 10-day intervals. Severe infestations can kill the plant.