Quick answer
Your sago palm can droop when the soil is too dry or too wet, and the leaves can look the same in both cases. Check the soil first.
Overwatering & root rot. Stop watering and let the soil dry out. Check that the pot drains. If the roots are brown and mushy, unpot it, cut away the soft roots, and repot in fresh, dry mix.
Not a match? Compare the signs below to find the one you have.
How to tell
The soil is bone dry and the whole plant has gone limp, often with crispy frond tips beforehand.
The fix
If the soil is dry, water thoroughly (for a sago palm that’s usually every 8 to 12 days in summer). It takes a few days to firm up again.
How to tell
Cold exposure can damage the plant even with dry roots. Wet mix in a cold spot also increases the risk of rot.
The fix
Move it away from cold glass and drafts to a spot with suitable, steady temperatures. Water according to moisture, only when the top 5 cm (2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. Check drainage and do not add water just because a tip is brown or a calendar says it is time.
How to tell
Drooping began after a purchase, move or repot. A move can change light and temperature without disturbing the roots.
The fix
Check moisture and roots before changing care. A move alone does not require a dry week. After actual root damage, follow this plant’s repotting guidance. Water according to moisture, only when the top 5 cm (2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. Check drainage and do not add water just because a tip is brown or a calendar says it is time.
How to tell
It wilts in the heat of the afternoon but recovers by evening.
The fix
Shift it out of direct midday sun. A temporary wilt in heat is the plant conserving water.
Before watering, check that the pot drains freely and never sits in standing water. If the mix is still damp, wait and check again.
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