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Hello @Chris22
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your Cycads.
If your cycad's leaf tips and the centre mass (crown) are turning brown, it's usually a sign of stress that could be caused by several things overwatering, pests, fungal infections, or environmental damage like sunburn or frost. Whether you can save it depends on how badly the central crown is affected, since that’s where new growth comes from. Start by checking the crown itself. If it's soft, mushy, or smells a bit off, it might be crown rot. You’ll need to carefully cut away any rotting tissue using clean, sterilised tools until you reach firm, healthy material. Once cleaned up, dust the area with something like Yates Anti Rot or Eco-fungicide, both of which you can find at Bunnings. Let the crown dry out fully before watering again, and avoid getting water directly into it.
Overwatering is a common issue, especially if the soil doesn’t drain well. Make sure your cycad is in free-draining soil if it’s in the ground. Also check for pests, scale and mealybugs are common with cycads. Look closely around the crown and under the leaves for tiny brown bumps or white fluffy patches. If you find any, spray with Eco-Oil, and keep checking weekly until they’re gone.
Environmental issues can also play a role. If there’s been recent frost or really hot sun, that can burn the fronds, especially if the plant was recently moved. Damaged leaves won’t recover, but as long as the crown is still firm and green underneath the browning, the cycad should produce new growth probably in spring. In the meantime, cut off any fronds that are fully brown and dry at the base. This helps the plant focus energy on healthy parts and reduces the chance of fungal problems spreading.
To support recovery, give the cycad a slow-release fertiliser, Scotts Osmocote 1kg All Purpose Controlled Release Fertiliser is a good choice. You can also use a seaweed tonic like Seasol every couple of weeks to support root health and reduce stress. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers while the plant is struggling. If the crown still feels firm, your cycad is likely still alive and can bounce back with the right care.
Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when spraying your garden.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
