Sago palms belong to the oldest plant family still on earth, the cycads. They are not truly palms but cone forming flora which have been around since before the dinosaurs.
The long feathery leaves are palm-like and divided into sections. The overall effect is of large broad leaves heavily textured and an exotic sculpted form. Cycads are not tolerant of freezing conditions, but sagos are the hardiest of all the varieties. They can withstand brief periods of temperatures as low as 15 degrees F. (-9 C.). This means you need to provide sago palm winter protection especually in prolonged frosts. The amount of care you need to take depends upon the length of the cold snap and the area which you live.
* Sago care in winter should start with a 3-inch (7.5 cm.) layer of mulch around the base of the trunk.
* Covering the plant with a burlap bag, fleece or lightweight blanket is a good way of providing sago palm winter protection from short term freezes. Watch the weather report and cover the plant before you go to bed. Uncover when frost has melted in the morning.
* Sago palms can be kept indoors. some times they are purchased as house plants. The can also be placed in a greenhouse. It doesn't need to be heated
* The main focus of protection should be the crown, so you can cover it with a bucket or planter. They can be moved out of direct frost under a pourch or gazebo. Once the plant is too big to move it is recommended that you build a cold frame arount it if you live in a really cold area.
