Cycads are typically propagated through seed, fruiting, and burial. The sowing method is usually done in autumn using a broadcasting technique, or the seeds can be sown again in spring of the following year. In southern regions, direct sowing in open fields is common, and the ideal soil is fertile, well-drained sandy loam. Seeds should be sown sparsely, covered with fine soil, and kept in a warm, humid environment to promote germination. During the seedling stage, proper care is essential—watering should be moderate, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Cycads can be transplanted after 2 to 3 years.
For propagation via tillering, cut the sprouts from the axillary buds on the roots of mature cycads. If the buds don’t grow leaves easily, you can place an inverted flowerpot over them to reduce light exposure and encourage growth. Once new leaves appear, remove the cover gradually. Provide shade initially, then slowly increase sunlight exposure.
In colder regions like the Yangtze River valley, cycads need protection during winter. Wrap the stems with straw and take insulation measures. This method is especially useful when no greenhouse is available.
(2) Potting
Pot Selection: Cycads are evergreen foliage plants, so it's best to use purple clay pots or glazed pots in dark purple, light green, or yellowish colors. The pot shape can be oval, rectangular, or shallow round or hexagonal for single plants.
Soil Mix: Use well-draining, slightly acidic sandy loam. For home potted cycads, mix 70% humic soil or weathered pond mud with 20% sand and 1–2% cake fertilizer to create a nutrient-rich medium.
Planting: Cycads prefer warm conditions, so planting should be done in April. At the bottom of the pot, place a layer of broken tiles and coarse sand to improve drainage. Add a base of composted manure or organic fertilizer. When planting multiple plants together, arrange them carefully to balance size and height.
(3) Bonsai Styling
When creating bonsai from cycads, their thick or cylindrical trunks are not easily shaped, so selecting the right material is key. Long, horizontal, or diagonally placed stems naturally form unique and striking bonsai. Using multiple cycads of different sizes and heights in one pot creates a clustered effect that adds visual interest.
Trimming dense or unattractive leaves helps maintain the plant’s appearance. The ideal bonsai style for cycads includes leaning or reclining forms. Pairing a large and small plant together—one upright and one slanted—creates a balanced and dynamic composition. Clusters can also be arranged with varying levels of density and spacing to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal.
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