How to Care for a Newly Purchased Cycad
As a representative of tropical ornamental foliage plants, the cycad is deeply favored for its robust and upright form and ultra-long lifespan. A newly acquired cycad requires a special care stage to smoothly pass the acclimatization period. This article will systematically analyze the scientific cultivation methods for cycad seedlings, from environmental control to daily management.
Basic Treatment for Newly Purchased Cycads
Key Points for Pruning Branches and Leaves
Upon opening, the primary task is to observe the crown density, and use a sanitized scissor to remove overlapping branches and withered leaves, keeping evenly spaced compound leaves. Focus on pruning damaged leaves with more than 1/3 of the leaf margin scorched, retaining a 5cm petiole base to promote new bud germination.
Procedure for Repotting
After one week of cultivation in the original pot, repot into a larger terracotta pot, with a 3cm layer of ceramic stones at the bottom. Use a mixed substrate of decomposed leaf soil, coarse sand, and bone meal (5:3:2), retaining 1/3 of the original soil to protect the roots. Place in a scattered light area for 7 days after repotting to allow the plant to recover.
Control of Cycad Growing Environment
Light Management Plan
In spring and autumn, ensure 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, and use a sunshade net to filter strong light from 10:00 to 15:00 in summer. In winter, it can receive full direct sunlight, rotating the pot 90° every 10 days to ensure even light exposure.
Temperature and Humidity Control
Maintain an ideal temperature range of 18-25°C, with winter temperatures not falling below 5°C. Keep the air humidity between 60-70%, which can be achieved by placing wet pebbles in a tray or by misting in the morning and evening. Ensure ventilation to avoid water accumulation in the leaf core.
Water and Fertilizer Management Schedule
During the acclimatization period, keep the soil slightly moist, water thoroughly every 5-7 days in spring and autumn, and every 3 days in summer. In the growing period, apply a special cycad fertilizer (N-P-K=12-6-8) monthly, and stop fertilizing in winter. Regularly supplement with ferrous sulfate solution to prevent chlorosis.
Cycad Disease Prevention System
Establish a quarterly prevention mechanism: apply furadan in spring to prevent borers, spray carbendazim in summer to prevent leaf spot disease, clean the potting soil surface in autumn to prevent sclerotium disease, and paint the trunk white in winter to prevent frostbite.
Through systematic environmental control and meticulous management, a newly purchased cycad can develop 10-15 new leaves within 3 months. Regularly observe the color changes of the growth points (healthy ones appear light green), and adjust the care plan in a timely manner to cultivate a cycad with lustrous leaves and a full, robust form.