Troubleshooting
Restrepo's Chigua problems — and how to fix them
Restrepo's Chigua (Chigua restrepoi) 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.
Low humidity damage
Brown, desiccated frond tips and margins are the first sign of insufficient humidity. Increase ambient humidity immediately; this species is far less tolerant of dry air than most cycads. A greenhouse or enclosed humid environment is strongly preferred.
Fungal crown rot
In high-humidity conditions without adequate airflow, fungal pathogens can attack the crown. Ensure gentle air circulation around the plant. Treat any discoloured or soft crown tissue with a copper-based fungicide promptly.
Root disturbance sensitivity
Chigua restrepoi is sensitive to repotting and root disturbance. Repot only when rootbound, in late spring or early summer, into a container only marginally larger than the previous one. Handle roots gently and water minimally for several weeks post-repot.
Prevent restrepo's chigua problems before they start
Most restrepo's chigua issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for restrepo's chigua in general rather than its problems? Read the full restrepo's chigua care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Restrepo's Chigua problems — FAQ
Why is my restrepo's chigua low humidity damage?
Brown, desiccated frond tips and margins are the first sign of insufficient humidity. Increase ambient humidity immediately; this species is far less tolerant of dry air than most cycads. A greenhouse or enclosed humid environment is strongly preferred.
Why is my restrepo's chigua fungal crown rot?
In high-humidity conditions without adequate airflow, fungal pathogens can attack the crown. Ensure gentle air circulation around the plant. Treat any discoloured or soft crown tissue with a copper-based fungicide promptly.
Why is my restrepo's chigua root disturbance sensitivity?
Chigua restrepoi is sensitive to repotting and root disturbance. Repot only when rootbound, in late spring or early summer, into a container only marginally larger than the previous one. Handle roots gently and water minimally for several weeks post-repot.