Troubleshooting
Sago palm problems — and how to fix them
Sago palm (Cycas revoluta) 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.
Yellow fronds
Overwatering or nutrient deficiency — feed with palm fertiliser.
No new growth
Sago palms produce one flush a year — patience required.
Scale insects
Brown bumps on fronds; treat with horticultural oil.
Soft mushy trunk base
Root rot — usually fatal; reduce watering immediately.
Prevent sago palm problems before they start
Most sago palm issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Sago palm problems — FAQ
Why is my sago palm yellow fronds?
Overwatering or nutrient deficiency — feed with palm fertiliser.
Why is my sago palm no new growth?
Sago palms produce one flush a year — patience required.
Why is my sago palm scale insects?
Brown bumps on fronds; treat with horticultural oil.
Why is my sago palm soft mushy trunk base?
Root rot — usually fatal; reduce watering immediately.