One of the really fascinating things about cycads, as opposed to palm trees, is that cycads don't grow continuously. They send up their leaves, usually once a year, in a big hurry, called
a flush. If you live in the Phoenix area, like I do, expect your cycads to start flushing in April. The ones in direct sun will flush sooner, the ones in shade, later. Don't be surprised if it takes until summertime for some to flush, and some will flush more than once a year, and some will takes years in between flushes. If your cycad has lost all of its leaves from the big freeze this winter, be patient. If the trunk (sometimes called the pineapple) is firm, the cycad is alive and will recover. Don't dig it up and throw it away! Give it to me!
People who have cycads are on the lookout for new growth at this time of year. When you just barely see it, like in this photo, you know that your cycad is strong and healthy. Don't be tempted to cut off all of the old leaves from the previous flush, even if they look pretty ratty, like this one does, until the flush is complete. The new leaves are soft and the old leaves will protect them.
Sago palms (
cycas revolutas) are native to Japan. In their natural habitat, they grow best in the summer rains. Be sure that your cycad has good drainage, and when you see it start to flush, give it plenty of water!
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