Sago Palm Crown Rot or Lethal Yellowing: Epsom Salts Won't Help

King sago’s new growth is yellow/brown and wilted. Epsom salt applied twice with no improvement. Owner suspects magnesium deficiency.

Likely Causes

• Crown rot: Check if crown is soft/yielding. Cut out rot, drench with strong fungicide.
• Lethal yellowing: Incurable disease in Florida causing crown collapse.
• Excess shade or moisture: Sagos need sun and dry conditions.

Epsom Salt Warning

Only helps if soil test confirms Mg deficiency. Added salts may worsen rot. Soil test first. If crown is firm and site is well-drained, reduce watering and monitor.