Cycads are typically propagated through seeds, which involve sowing, fruiting, and burying. The best time for sowing is in the autumn using a broadcasting method, or you can sow them again in the spring of the following year. In southern regions, direct sowing in open fields is common, and it’s important to use fertile, well-drained sandy soil. The seeds should be spaced out as needed, covered with fine soil, and kept in warm, humid conditions to promote germination. During the seedling stage, proper management is essential—watering should be moderate, avoiding excessive moisture that can lead to root rot. After 2 to 3 years, the seedlings can be transplanted.
Another propagation method involves tillering, where new sprouts from the axillary buds of the old cycad roots are cut and separated. If the buds don’t grow leaves easily, you can place an inverted flowerpot over them to reduce light exposure and encourage leaf growth. Once new leaves appear, remove the cover gradually, provide shade, and slowly increase sunlight exposure. In colder regions of the Yangtze River valley, cycads should be cultivated carefully. During winter, wrap the stems with straw and take insulation measures. This approach is generally used when there's no greenhouse available.
For potting, choose suitable containers such as purple clay pots or glazed pots, which come in dark purple, light green, or yellowish colors. The shape can be oval, rectangular, or shallow round or hexagonal, depending on the plant. The soil should be well-draining, slightly acidic, and rich in nutrients—preferably a sandy loam. For home cultivation, a mix of 70% humic soil or weathered pond mud, 20% sand, and 1–2% cake fertilizer works well. Planting should be done in April during spring, when the temperature begins to rise. At the bottom of the pot, place a layer of broken tiles and coarse sand to improve drainage, followed by a base of composted manure or organic fertilizer. When planting multiple plants together, arrange them in a way that creates visual balance and variation in height and angle.
When shaping cycad bonsai, avoid trying to modify the thick, cylindrical trunks directly. Instead, focus on selecting materials with long, horizontal, vertical, or slanted stems that naturally create an interesting appearance. Using different-sized cycads in a single pot can also create a unique cluster effect. Trim any dense or unattractive foliage to enhance the overall look. Bonsai styles often favor leaning or reclining forms. Combining two pots—one large and one small, one upright and one slanted—can create a dynamic contrast. Clusters of several plants can also be arranged with varying heights and densities to add visual interest and a natural aesthetic.
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