What are Cycads, and Why Grow a Cycad?

Cycads are unique drought-resistant plants which thrive when planted with very good drainage. Even though they can handle dry hot weather well, your cycads will probably benefit from certain unique planting techniques that are not common to many other plants.  If you follow some of the tips here, and do some of the following things when planting (or transplanting) your cycad, you’ll help it preserve its moisture, be as drought-resistant as possible and flourish in your garden.

It’s not a Fern… It’s not a Palm… It’s a Cycad!

How to Fertilize Cycads, Part 2

The first part of this article discussed the problems that alkaline (high pH) soil and water present for growing cycads and other plants. In this concluding portion, we'll address the specific nutritional needs of cycads, and how to solve the problem of alkaline soils and waters, while feeding your soil to grow healthy cycads and other drought-resistant plants.

How to Fertilize Cycads, Part 1

Cycads have become increasingly popular garden plants in recent years. In addition to the more common Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta), rarer species of Cycas, and cycads like Encephalartos and Dioon are finding their way into upscale landscapes. Cycads’ increased popularity is due to several factors, including their distinctive look, their drought-tolerance, the intrigue of owning a “living fossil”, and that when given proper care, cycads are stunning landscape features. This article addresses the last factor, proper care, specifically how fertilizing can promote healthy and attractive cycad growth.

Protecting Cycads and Other Plants from Frost

In California, we had a late-winter cold weather snap that extended through the Southwest, threatening the cycads and succulents and other drought-tolerant plants we grow.  It was the worst cold spell since 2007 when many plant growers, both home and commercial, lost leaves and plants. Parts of Los Angeles and surrounding areas got below freezing, and we had snow in parts of Southern California as low as 500-1000 feet.  We had a hail shower at the house, but it missed our nursery.