TheNaturePlanet

Cycas is a popular ornamental plant. However, many enthusiasts still have certain questions regarding its classification and cultivation methods. The following will elaborate in detail on whether Cycas is a fern as well as its cultivation methods and precautions.
Cycas is not a fern but belongs to gymnosperms. Although the leaf morphology of Cycas is similar to that of some ferns, there are significant differences in its internal structure and reproduction methods. Ferns mainly reproduce through spores, while Cycas reproduces through seeds. Therefore, in plant taxonomy, Cycas is classified as a gymnosperm rather than a fern.
Cycas prefers warmth, and the most suitable growth temperature range is between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius. When the temperature is low in winter, it is necessary to take cold-proof measures and try to keep the room temperature at around 10 degrees Celsius to avoid the plants from being damaged by frost.
Cycas likes sunlight and is also shade-tolerant. It is suitable to be placed in a place with scattered light or semi-shade for maintenance. Avoid keeping the plants in a completely dark or directly exposed to strong sunlight environment for a long time, so as not to have an adverse impact on their growth.
Cycas has a certain degree of drought tolerance, and watering should follow the principle of watering when the soil is dry. During its growth period, the watering frequency can be appropriately increased to promote the growth of the plants. When the temperature is low in winter, the number of watering times should be reduced, and the soil should be kept slightly dry to prevent the plants from being damaged by frost.
Cycas has certain requirements for the soil. It likes fertile, loose, breathable, and well-drained soil. When repotting or potting, more horseshoe pieces can be applied as base fertilizer. During the vigorous growth period, organic fertilizers such as bran fertilizer should be frequently applied to promote the growth of leaves and make them bright in color.
Cycas needs to be repotted at least once every five years. When repotting, decomposed leaf soil can be selected as the main soil and mixed with some base fertilizers such as bone meal. The best time for repotting is in spring or autumn when the temperature is suitable and the plants are growing vigorously. During the repotting process, attention should be paid to pruning the aging roots to promote the growth of new roots.
Precautions for Cycas cultivation
When the height of the Cycas plant grows to about 50 centimeters, the aging leaves should be cut off. After that, pruning should be carried out once every three years to keep the plant tidy and beautiful. The best time for pruning is in spring. Meanwhile, some inappropriate branches, such as withered and aging ones, should also be cut off in a timely manner.
Cycas may be affected by leaf spot disease and scale insects. Leaf spot disease is a disease caused by bacteria and mainly harms the leaves. In the early stage of the disease, brown spots will appear on the leaves, and then the spots will gradually expand and merge into one piece. To prevent and control leaf spot disease, drugs such as chlorothalonil can be used for spraying. Scale insects are common pests that will suck the sap of Cycas and cause harm. To prevent and control scale insects, alcohol can be used to wipe the leaves or insecticides can be sprayed for prevention and control. Meanwhile, the ventilation of the cultivation environment should be kept good to reduce the occurrence of pests and diseases.
Although Cycas itself is non-toxic, its seeds contain toxins. Therefore, during the cultivation process, attention should be paid to avoid accidentally eating or touching the seeds to prevent poisoning accidents.
As a large potted plant, Cycas requires a relatively large cultivation space. When cultivated indoors, a spacious location should be selected for placement, and the plants should be avoided from being too close to furniture and other items to avoid affecting its growth and aesthetics.
Cycas is a beautiful and unique ornamental plant. By understanding its classification, cultivation methods, and precautions, we can better take care of Cycas and appreciate the natural beauty it brings.