What's eating my sichuan cycad?

Sichuan Cycad (Cycas szechuanensis), a temperate Chinese cycad, is vulnerable to cycad scale and mealybugs in cultivation. Unlike tropical cycads it tolerates cooler winters, but this doesn't reduce pest risk. Spider mites appear in dry warm spells indoors. As a rare slow-growing species in specialist collections, prompt treatment of any infestation is essential to protect irreplaceable fronds.

White crusty scale on leaflet undersides and crown; fronds turn yellow then brown; plant slowly declines without treatment Apply horticultural oil thoroughly to all surfaces; repeat every 3 weeks; biological control with Coccobius parasitic wasps where available

White cottony masses in crown between frond bases; sticky honeydew and sooty mold; weakened new growth Remove manually with alcohol swabs; spray neem oil or insecticidal soap; apply systemic drench if crown is heavily infested

Fine pale stippling across leaflet surfaces; webbing in warm dry conditions; leaflets look dull and bronzed Raise humidity; apply neem oil or miticide spray; ensure consistent watering as water-stressed plants are far more susceptible