Troubleshooting
Tete Cycad problems — and how to fix them
Tete Cycad (Encephalartos pterogonus) 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.
Cold damage and frost
Being a hot lowveld species, Encephalartos pterogonus is particularly sensitive to cold. Temperatures below 12°C cause leaf discolouration and stunted new growth; frost kills foliage and can rot the crown. In temperate climates, must be overwintered frost-free and kept very dry.
Root rot from winter moisture
During its natural dry-season dormancy, this species should receive minimal water. Continued watering in cool, low-light conditions leads to root and crown rot. Reduce watering to near-zero in winter; resume only when temperatures rise above 18°C and active growth resumes.
Scale insects
Cycad scale species and mealybugs infest fronds and the trunk. Treat promptly with horticultural oil or a systemic insecticide. Inspect the crown and trunk regularly, especially on new growth flushes. Heavily infested fronds should be removed and destroyed.
Prevent tete cycad problems before they start
Most tete cycad issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for tete cycad in general rather than its problems? Read the full tete cycad care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Tete Cycad problems — FAQ
Why is my tete cycad cold damage and frost?
Being a hot lowveld species, Encephalartos pterogonus is particularly sensitive to cold. Temperatures below 12°C cause leaf discolouration and stunted new growth; frost kills foliage and can rot the crown. In temperate climates, must be overwintered frost-free and kept very dry.
Why is my tete cycad root rot from winter moisture?
During its natural dry-season dormancy, this species should receive minimal water. Continued watering in cool, low-light conditions leads to root and crown rot. Reduce watering to near-zero in winter; resume only when temperatures rise above 18°C and active growth resumes.
Why is my tete cycad scale insects?
Cycad scale species and mealybugs infest fronds and the trunk. Treat promptly with horticultural oil or a systemic insecticide. Inspect the crown and trunk regularly, especially on new growth flushes. Heavily infested fronds should be removed and destroyed.