Sago Palm Seeds

Palm trees have an aura of attractiveness of their own. But contrary to its name, sago palms are not exactly palm trees. Though they resemble palm trees in their appearance, sago palm actually belongs to the family Cycad and is a plant. The botanical name of the sago palm is Cycad Revoluta. Originally found in Japan, sago palm can now be seen in various countries adding vitality to gardens and homes. Sago palms are quite popular as landscaping as well as indoor plants. Though sago palm plants are usually grown from sago palm pups (seedlings are known as pups), available in nurseries, sago palm seeds are also used for growing these plants. Sago palm can also be grown as houseplants in homes as well as offices. The sago palm is a hardy plant and grows very slowly (a few inches per year), so you need to be patient if you are planning to grow sago palms from the seeds.

How to Plant Sago Palm

Sago palm tree can be grown from saplings or seeds. Before you plant the seeds you have to prepare the soil and check if it is viable to grow this ornamental plant.

• The seeds of the sago palm are usually reddish-orange in color and the size of walnuts. Before planting the seeds in soil, you must check for the viability of the seeds, in order to produce healthy plants.
• Take a large bucket and soak the sago palm seeds in it. Some of the seeds may float on the water. Remove these seeds and discard them as they are not likely to germinate.
• Let the seeds soak in the clean water for approximately two days for the outer cover to soften. Changing water, twice or thrice in a day, will prevent fungal growth on the seeds.
• Once the seeds are completely soaked, remove their outer cover with the help of a peeler. But make sure you wear gloves before you get to the task of peeling the skin, since the seeds contain certain toxins that may cause harm. Dry the peeled sago seeds for about two to three days before planting them.
• To grow sago palm, prepare a pot with a starter mix, which consists of coarse sand, peat moss and perlite. This allows excess water to drain off and yet keep the soil moist. The indoor sago palm is a smaller variety of the sago palm and grows well in pots.
• Place the seeds into the soil, with their flat sides facing upwards. Do not bury the seed completely into the soil, but keep a part of it exposed. With the help of a sprayer, water the seeds and press them deeper into the soil.
• The pot should be kept in a shady place till the seeds germinate and let out small shoots. It may take approximately five months for the germination process. Once the leaves appear, transfer the germinated seeds to a larger pot.
• It can take about another eight to nine months for the roots to grow. Place these young plants into a larger pot, till the roots develop further. It will take three to four years. After the plant has reached a height of one foot, transfer it to the garden. Choose a bright, sunny place with well-drained soil, to plant your sago palm.
• As in the case of plants, you must also be aware of the problems that may affect the sago palm tree, so that necessary precautions can be taken.

Planting sago palms in your yard will have an effect of a tropical place and make your house look more beautiful. With proper care and nourishment, you can enjoy the beauty of this plant for many years to come.