How to Plant Sega Palm Tree Seeds
image by Kelsey Shipman
Sega palms are cycads, a group known as "living fossils". Also known as Sago palms, their species is one of the oldest living plants on earth and have remained unchanged for millions of years. Sago palm seeds must be fertilized by the male plant. In the wild, this is usually done by wind or native insects. But this can be done artificially. Once fertile seeds are collected, the outer fruit should be discarded and the inner seed stored for several weeks before planting.
Purchase seeds. Sago palm seeds are available online or your local plant nurseries and should be both fertilized and stripped of fruit. Check the quality of seeds before planting by pinching them between your thumb and forefinger. Viable seeds will not collapse under the pressure.
Soak seeds in clean water for 24-72 hours. This initiates the process of germination.
Fill a shallow pot three quarters of the way full with potting soil. Though it is not necessary, adding up to 25% sand can help keep your pot well drained.
Place the seeds close together. Give each seed a ½ to 1 inch radius of space before planting the next seed. Fill the pot to the lower rim with potting soil.
Water immediately. Pour water over the seeds until it leaks out of the bottom of the pot.
Place your pot in a sunny room. Greenhouse growing is best for young sago palms as the humidity and warm temperatures ensure healthy growth. It is best to keep your seed away from hot, direct sunlight while it is sprouting. Place it somewhere (perhaps near a window or glass door) where it receives sufficient indirect light.
Plant it outdoors. Once a full leaf or two have grown, you can transplant your sago palm outdoors into a sunny, well-drained area. Keep in mind sago palms are slow-growing and producing a 1 inch bulb may take over a year.