Protecting Sago Palms from Winter Cold Damage

Cold Response

Sago palms (Cycas revoluta) in South Carolina turn brown in winter due to cold stress. This is common but preventable.

Protection Strategies

• Frost cloth: Cover entire plant when freeze threatens; secure at ground level to trap soil heat.
• Container plants: Move under cover (garage, porch) during cold snaps.
• Mulch heavily: 3–4 inches of pine straw over root zone.

Spring Cleanup

Wait until all danger of frost passes, then cut off completely brown fronds at the base. Partially green fronds still photosynthesize and should remain. New growth emerges from the center in spring.

With protection, sagos maintain evergreen foliage year-round.