Q.Problem With Our Brazilian Tree Ferns
Back in June I asked a question about a problem we have with a portion of the new fronds dying as a regular thing (see photo). BushDoctor commented (thank you) and thought it might be a Manganese deficiency, so I bought a soil testing kit to see if the soil pH was a problem, but it looked OK (see photo). I also purchased a Manganese supplement and sprayed it on the leaves of a test fern, to by-pass any deficiency in the soil but it made no difference. Any other thoughts please on what the problem might be?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It is a Manganese deficiency. The leaves that are affected will not return to health. The way that you will know that it is working is by the new growth.
Also, these are Cycads and not Tree Ferns. They will need to be treated as Cycads, as they have a very different care routine than Tree Ferns will.
You can cut off any growth that is totally dead, as you see in the picture. They will not return to health.
To make sure that you are caring for the tree properly, please treat it as a Cycad. This article will refresh you on their care:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/cycads/growing-cycad-plants.htm
