King Sago Palms

Repotting

Repotting of a king sago palm is best done in the spring or summer.  Because new leaves are very tender, do not repot the plant for several weeks after new leaves emerge.  To assist this process, make sure the plant receives good overhead light while the new leaves mature.  This will allow the plant to produce a shorter, heartier leaf. 

If the sunlight is coming through a window, give the plant a quarter turn each day until the leaves harden.  This will help the leaves to grow straight and strong.  Also, do not allow the soil to become too dry while new leaves are maturing. 

Opinions vary on the type of pot to use.  Some growers prefer a container just slightly larger than the root system.  Others encourage the use of a deep (i.e. at least 16 inches deep) container to allow the root system to have plenty of room to grow.  The good news is that because king sago palms are so adaptable, both methods work.

Regardless of the container you use, make sure the soil is well-drained.  Once replanted, water the soil thoroughly, but do not re-water until the soil is almost, but not completely dry.