What You Need To Know Before You Buy A Sago Palm — Plant Care Tips and More

Looking for a perfectly potted Sago Palm? Shop the Léon & George Sago Palm here.

So, you’re thinking about adding a Sago Palm to your plant collection? Great choice! Sago Palms are beautiful, unique plants that add a tropical vibe to any space. But before you rush out to buy one, there are a few things you should know to ensure that you’re giving your Sago Palm the best possible care. Read on to learn the basics of Sago Palm care, so you can make an informed decision before purchasing one.

Sago Palms Are Not True Palms

Despite their common name, Sago Palms are not true palms. They’re actually cycads, which are an ancient group of plants that date back to the dinosaur era. Cycads are similar to palms in appearance, but they’re actually more closely related to conifers like pine trees.

Sago Palms Are Toxic to Pets & Humans

One thing you should be aware of before purchasing a Sago Palm is that they’re toxic to humans and pets. All parts of the plant contain cycasin, which is a toxin that can cause pretty severe illness, and even death if ingested in large enough quantities. It’s important to keep Sago Palms away from children and pets, and to wear gloves when handling them.

Sago Palms Grow Slowly

Sago Palms are slow-growing plants, which means they can take a long time to reach their full size. It’s not uncommon for a Sago Palm to take 10-15 years to reach its mature size, which can be up to 10 feet tall and wide. If you’re looking for a plant that will quickly fill a space, a Sago Palm may not be the best choice.

The Sago Palm makes for an excellent addition to shady outdoor spaces, like a deck, patio, front porch and more.

Sago Palms Prefer Bright, Indirect Light

Like most plants, Sago Palms need light to survive. However, they prefer bright, indirect light rather than direct sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause the plant to become leggy and weak. Ideally, you should place your Sago Palm in a spot that receives bright, filtered light for most of the day, such as a shady outdoor area or a bright corner of your home.

Sago Palms Like to Be Kept on the Dry Side

Sago Palms are drought-tolerant plants, which means they prefer to be kept on the dry side. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can quickly kill the plant. It’s best to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings, and to avoid getting water on the leaves, which can cause them to turn yellow and brown.

Sago Palms Need Well-Draining Soil

Sago Palms prefer well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. They don’t like to be in soil that’s too wet or too dry, so it’s important to choose a soil mix that will allow for proper drainage. A mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss can be a good choice for Sago Palms.

Sago Palms Can Be Propagated From Pups

One of the unique things about Sago Palms is that they can be propagated from pups, which are small offshoots that grow at the base of the plant. To propagate a Sago Palm from a pup, simply remove the pup from the parent plant and plant it in a separate pot. It may take a few years for the pup to reach maturity, but it’s a great way to expand your Sago Palm collection.

How To Select A Healthy, Thriving Sago Palm

When selecting a healthy Sago Palm, it is important to look for signs of vitality and overall well-being. Look for a plant with bright green fronds that are firm and upright, without any signs of discoloration, wilting, or yellowing. Check the base of the plant for any signs of rot, such as mushy or discolored areas, as this can indicate an unhealthy root system. The plant should also be free from any pests or diseases, such as scale insects or fungal growths. Additionally, consider the size and shape of the plant - a healthy sago palm should have a well-formed crown of fronds and a sturdy, well-established trunk. By selecting a healthy Sago Palm, you can ensure that your plant will thrive in its new home and bring beauty and greenery to your space for years to come.

Avoid Purchasing Your Sago Palm From A Garden Center

Buying a Sago Palm is an investment, and it's important to ensure that you're making a wise decision. Opting for the cheapest option may seem like a good idea, but it can lead to problems in the long run. The health of your Sago Palm directly impacts its beauty, wellbeing, and overall aesthetic, and it's crucial to prioritize its care both before and after purchase. To guarantee the best quality, it's recommended to purchase your Sago Palm from a reputable, high-quality grower who takes exceptional care of their plants. Be wary of garden centers that offer lower prices but provide no guarantee of healthy, pest-free plants.

Most plants at garden stores receive the same care, including watering and light, regardless of their species. Unfortunately, this approach doesn't work well for Sago Palms, which can't tolerate overwatering. A daily deluge of water from a hose that hits neighboring plants doesn't benefit Sago Palms, and can even harm them.

When you purchase a large Sago Palm from a garden center or store, transporting it home can be challenging. Putting it in your car is not only a hassle, but it can cause environmental stress on the plant. It can take a long time for them to recover from such stress. To avoid such complications, it's advisable to buy your Sago Palm from a trusted supplier who will take care of transportation for you. The price tag may be a bit higher, but it will save you money and energy in the long run.

More questions about the Sago Palm? Reach out to us at hello@leonandgeorge.com and let us help you style your space with beautiful living greenery!