Cycads like water, but hate wet feet. Too much water kills them.
Excellent drainage is
the most important requirement, If your soil is not sandy, plant
above ground level in a
mound or raised bed. Water must never sit around cycad roots.
Mulching the soil in
summer is beneficial. Pull the mulch back in winter to allow the
excess moisture to
evaporate faster. Most cycads can handle drier conditions, but
constant moisture is
best. Except for a few rainforest species, 95% of cycads grow
much better in full sun
to 60% sun than shade. Fertilise with dynamic lifter, blood and
bone, and a light application
of a nitrogen fertiliser with trace elements. Slow release osmocote
works well for potted
specimens. Fertilise in early spring and mid summer during growing
season. When planting
out seedlings into garden beds, best results are obtained when
the plant has 6 to 10 leaves
and the caudex is the size of a small walnut. Very small seedlings
should be kept in pots
for 3-4 years and if deep containers are used, plants grow better.
For potted specimens,
a little gravel in the bottom of the pots helps the tap root from
rotting. A composted pine
bark potting mix with little or no sand will ensure the pot drains
freely.
South East Queensland - ideal climate for most cycads. You can
expect them to grow
faster here in cultivation than in habitat, provided drainage
is good. |
