Have you ever dreamed of growing your own succulent plants?
You’re not the only one.
Some types, like aloe, hen, and chicks, have always been popular. But now, some unusual kinds, like living stones, are gaining a lot of attention.
It’s almost impossible not to see these plants in any garden-related news or social media post.
All plants are unique and need special care, but caring for them is pretty easy if you know what to do. Succulents, in particular, can surprise you with their various colors, shapes, sizes, and textures. If you’re lucky, they might even bloom for you.
Whether you want to keep a few in pots by a sunny window or plant them in a sunny, sandy area outside, our tips will help you become the best succulent grower in your neighborhood.
What Are Succulents?
“Succulent” is a term used for plants that can store water to live in dry environments or difficult soil situations. Usually, these plants hold water in their leaves, which gives them their unique and adorable appearance.
Some succulents keep water in their stems, while others, known as geophytes, have underground parts that store food or other nutrients.
Related Post: How to Propagate Succulents
How to grow succulents?
Let There Be Light
Succulents love sunlight! They grow well in sunny spots, especially in hot and dry areas. If you live somewhere cold, bringing them indoors during winter is best.
Indoor succulents might not flower, but with good lighting, you can encourage them to. Some succulents also change color under bright light, much like getting a suntan.
Water Is Good, But Not Too Much
Succulents only need a little water. They are called “xerophytes,” which means they store water in their leaves and stems. But remember, they still need some water.
If you see the leaves drying or shriveling, it’s time to water them. Be careful not to overwater, though, as it can lead to rot. If you do overwater or there is heavy rain, try to drain the extra water. Yellow leaves are a sign of too much water.
For the best results, plant succulents in pots with good drainage or well-drained sandy soil. A general rule of thumb for watering frequency is not very straightforward as it depends on many factors, like the size of your plants, the average temperature, humidity, and the time of year.
Nutrition for Succulents
Succulents generally don’t need much fertilizing, especially if planted in fertile soil or a potting mix. However, if the plants are not doing well, it might be time to give them some nutrition.
Make sure to use a slow-release fertilizer that is low in nitrogen, as too much nitrogen can cause rot. Compost tea is also a good alternative.
Dealing with Pests and Diseases
Like other plants, succulents can also get pests and diseases, especially if overwatered or over-fertilized.
Look out for snails, mealybugs, aphids, and scales. Also, avoid areas with high humidity to prevent diseases.
Companion Plants
You can grow succulents with other plants that love sunny, well-drained areas. Some good companions include anise hyssop, chamomile, coreopsis, cosmos, creeping zinnia, evening primrose, globe amaranth, gopher plant, lantana, marigold, nasturtium, ornamental grasses, poppy, salvia, satin flower, vitex, and yarrow.
Moving Succulents Indoors
In cold weather, you should bring your succulents indoors. They might not bloom indoors, but their leaves are still attractive.
If you see your plants growing leggy, it means they are reaching out for more light. In such cases, you might need to use a grow light.
Time to Grow Succulents
Succulents are easy to grow. Just remember: don’t overwater, ensure good drainage, you might not need to fertilize, repot if they grow too big, and you can grow new plants from cuttings.
How to Propagate Succulents?
Here’s how to grow new succulent plants from a parent plant:
Succulents are very easy to grow new plants from, especially when a leaf falls off or is cut from the main plant. Often, these leaves start growing roots on top of the soil. All you need to do this are some simple steps and patience.
- Gently pull off or use clean, sharp scissors to cut off the succulent leaves. Make sure to remove the whole leaf, or it might not grow. Remove a few leaves from the parent plant at a time, or it might not survive.
- Leave the leaves to dry in the air for a few days. After that, fill a pot with soil that drains well, which is good for cactus or succulents. Then put the leaves on top of the soil.
- After that, you just have to wait. It might take a few weeks to see roots growing from the leaves. When the roots appear, give them a little water until you see new small succulents starting to form.
- As the baby plants get bigger, the leaf from the parent plant will dry up and fall off. You can then carefully move the baby plants into their own pots or put the parent leaves with the babies still on them into new pots.
Related Post: 9 MUST HAVE SUCCULENT PLANTERS
How to Transplant Succulents?
Succulents are easy to move and plant again because their roots are shallow and thread-like. Here are some tips for doing it right:
- If you dig out a succulent to move it, let it sit for a few days before you put it in the soil again. This helps its roots to heal.
- Succulents grow well in soil that lets water pass through easily. You can improve the soil by adding stuff like compost or using special soil for potting. If you’re using a pot, adding gritty stuff like pumice helps the water to drain.
- When you plant the succulent again, ensure it’s as deep in the soil as before. Pat the soil around the plant to help it stay upright. Then wait a day or two before you give it water.
Ready to decorate your home with these beautiful plants? Enjoy growing them, and share your experiences in the comments!