Q: I have attached photos of our problem sago. This plant is over 20 years old, growing in a pot inside a sheltered south-facing entryway. We have re-potted it several times but the size and weight are more than we can deal with now.Β It has been a beautiful focal point to our entry way but now is falling over the pot onto a fountain and has become more of a problem than a pleasure.
What is the lifespan of sago? I hate to destroy this plant but canβt think of any way to salvage it.
A:Β Sago (Cycas revoluta) can live hundreds of years and their mature size, if properly maintained, can be 6 to 10 feet tall and too large for a container.
They are very slow growers and at the rate of about one inch per year can be maintained in containers for a long time.
If you have a place in your landscape where it could be planted in the ground, you might be able to enjoy this plant for years to come. Although in their native subtropical habitat they can be grown in full sun, the best spot in our area would be at least partially shady to prevent sun burning of the fronds by the afternoon sun and in well-drained soil with a good amount of organic matter.
Peter L. Warren is the urban horticulture agent for the Pima County Cooperative Extension and the University of Arizona. Email questions and photos toΒ tucsongardensage@gmail.com
