Succulent care: Tips for growing hardy and decorative plants

Succulents have become extremely popular indoor plants due to their wide range of shapes and minimal care requirements. They can be cultivated indoors and outdoors, making them adaptable to various situations. Succulents have more than 60 families, including cacti (Cactaceae), stonecrops (Crassulaceae), fig marigolds (Aizoaceae), and spurges (Euphorbiaceae). Most succulents require similar maintenance despite the differences between species.

The term ‘succulent’ does not mean that they are edible but refers to their thick leaves and stems, which hold water. These unique attributes allow them to thrive in regions with low rainfall and are highly drought-resistant. Occasional heavy rain showers are beneficial because they must be watered twice a week during active growth, provided the soil is well drained and dries out quickly.

Although most succulents are non-toxic, some varieties can harm humans and pets. Kalanchoe contains toxic compounds called bufadienolides, which are dangerous if ingested by people, dogs, or cats. Euphorbia’s sap may irritate the skin, and the Jade Plant can harm both humans and pets like dogs, cats, and horses. Similarly, the String of Pearls plant poses a risk to both humans and animals if consumed.

Growcycle offers a variety of gardening products, from special soils to planting containers, that will facilitate the expansion or initiation of a collection, especially when it comes to growing succulents.

History of Succulents

Succulents are believed to have originated in various parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Their ability to thrive in extreme conditions made them an essential part of indigenous cultures, particularly in Africa and South America, where they were used for both practical and medicinal purposes. The Aloe vera plant, for example, has been used for thousands of years for its healing properties, particularly in ancient Egypt, where it was known as the "plant of immortality."

Succulents gained worldwide popularity in the 19th century during the Victorian era when plant collection was a hobby among the European elites. Their unique appearance and ease of care made them favorites among gardeners and collectors.

Botanical Description

Succulents are a diverse collection of plants distinguished by their ability to retain water in a variety of places, usually in their leaves, roots, or stems. This adaptation allows them to survive in various environments, such as deserts and semi-arid regions with limited water availability.

Succulent leaves are typically thick and fleshy and may vary in shape from flat and broad to cylindrical or round. Succulents' leaves can be arranged in rosettes, alternating, opposite, or whorled patterns. The leaves may also be waxy or hairy to minimize water loss.

In many succulents, the stem is the primary water-storage organ. Cacti, for example, have thick, dense stems that hold water and spines instead of leaves. Succulent roots are frequently shallow and spread out to swiftly collect rainwater from light showers. Some succulents have tuberous roots that also serve as water storage organs.

Essential Care Tips to Thrive Succulent

While succulents are often marketed as "no-care" plants, they do require some attention, just less than most other plants. The only plants that need no care at all are artificial ones. Succulents are hardy but still need the right conditions to thrive. Here are some essential care tips for succulents:

• Light

Succulents thrive in bright light, which is vital to their growth. Succulents should be placed close to a bright window that gets enough sunlight to grow indoors. South or east facing windows are best because they expose the plants to plenty of light.

If there is insufficient natural light, full-spectrum fluorescent or LED grow lights can be utilized as supplementary lighting for these plants. In addition, rotate them occasionally so that they develop uniformly and do not lean towards one side. Outdoor grown succulents usually require 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

However, it’s important to be careful when taking indoor succulents outside since they need time to adjust to strong sunlight. Gradually expose them to direct sunlight and avoid shocking them. Additionally, mature plants already acclimated to outdoor conditions may sometimes benefit from more than 6 hours of direct sunlight.

• Soil

Succulents should be planted in well-drained soil to keep their roots from decaying. The right soil mix is important for their health, whether grown in containers or on the ground. When potted succulents are concerned, it is recommended to use specialized soils for them.

Another option is to mix half potting soil and half coarse sand for better drainage. The most crucial thing is that the soil does not hold water, which can cause root rot. Succulents love dry, well-drained soil in outdoor gardens. If the soil in a garden is too heavy or retains moisture, it can be altered with materials like crushed gravel or very coarse sand to improve its drainage and make it more porous.

Some succulents like slightly acid soils, while others can grow well in alkaline conditions. However, maintaining proper drainage is much more critical than the substrate's acidity level to succeed with these plants. Succulent plants will only thrive when wet conditions exist around their roots.

• Water

Watering succulents requires careful balance to ensure they stay healthy. During the summer, succulents need to be watered once a week. However, as winter approaches and days become shorter, their water requirements decrease to about once per month. The watering schedule should be changed based on the quantity of sunlight the plants get. The wrinkling of stems or leaves usually indicates that a plant is under-watered and needs more moisture.

To properly water succulents, give them a deep watering and let the excess water drain completely. For container grown succulents, remove any water collecting on their saucers so that roots are not left in stagnant water, which could cause rotting. Allowing the soil to dry completely between moisture is critical, as succulents grow in drier conditions. If unsure whether the plant needs water, a simple test involves inserting a wooden chopstick into the soil. If it comes out dry, it's time to water.

• Temperature & Humidity 

Cold weather is particularly disastrous for succulents, which are very sensitive to drastic temperature changes. Frost can kill most succulents, so they need to be taken indoors during winter. Nevertheless, some cold-resistant types exist, such as sedums, sempervivums, and agave. If the temperature is above 40º F, succulents can be kept outside.

During the cold season, root rot can occur due to low temperatures and damp soil. Therefore, succulent plants must be grown in areas with good drainage. Growing succulent plants on pots or raised beds with good drainage prevents them from getting waterlogged in areas of high rainfall intensity.

• Fertilizer

Succulents thrive with occasional fertilization during their active growth periods. To keep them healthy, use a diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer once a month during the spring and summer. To avoid overfeeding, which can harm plants, combine the fertilizer at half strength.

During the winter months, succulents typically do not need any fertilizer as they enter a period of dormancy. However, it’s important to ensure that indoor succulents continue to receive plenty of bright light during this time, as this supports their overall health.

Techniques To Grow Succulent Fast

Here are some essential practices to use while growing succulents:

Pruning

Pruning is an important part of succulent care, even for those that grow slowly. Regular trimming helps maintain the plant’s shape and promotes healthy new growth. Use sterilized pruners to selectively remove dead or damaged leaves, pads, and leaves. It is also helpful to cut off long, leggy, or deformed parts whenever one wants a fuller, compactly built-up plant. Gardeners must wear gardening gloves when cutting euphorbia with toxic chemicals to prevent injuries. Annual trimming helps keep succulents thriving and vibrant.

Propagation

Propagating succulents is another way to expand a plant collection. Most succulents can be propagated using stem cuttings. Here is a step-by-step guide to help successfully grow new plants from cuttings:

• Cutting the Stem: Cut a 4-inch portion from the succulent stem with a sharp, sterile knife.
• Prepare for Cutting: Remove lower leaves. Leave the plant on a clean surface until it dries completely. This will help form a callous at the cut end that prevents rotting.
• Planting the Cutting: Place the cut end in a small pot with a moist, succulent soil mixture when it is dry and calloused. Bury one or two leaf nodes in the sand.
• Give Light: The pot should be put in an area with bright, indirect lighting. Direct sunlight can be too intense for a young cutting.
• Water: The root should only be watered when all moisture has evaporated from the ground. Overwatering may result in rot. Before cutting the cutting off, it takes about one month for roots to develop on the cutting itself.

Potting 

Choosing the right pot is essential to the overall health of succulents. Potting choices for succulents should be made with an understanding that they will handle moisture well. Pots made from terracotta or stone are preferred since these materials help water drain better.

Unlike plastic and glazed pots, terracotta and stone allow excess water to escape. Thus preventing root rot, which is often a big challenge when growing succulent plants. To avoid retaining too much moisture, the new pot should ideally only be slightly bigger than the old pot.

To pot a succulent, fill the new container about two-thirds full with a well-draining potting mix made specifically for succulents. Place the succulent in the pot at the same level as it was in the previous container. This helps ensure that the base of the plant remains above the soil and that the leaves do not come into contact with the potting mix. Add more potting mix around the plant, securing it in place without burying the leaves.

Repotting

Repotting is necessary when a succulent’s roots begin to emerge from the drainage hole or when the plant struggles to absorb water effectively. First, select a pot slightly larger than the current one and remove the plant from its old pot without hurting its roots.

Ensure fresh and well-drained potting soil is ready for use in the new pot. Place the succulent in the new pot so that it doesn’t go deeper than before. Subsequently, insert more soil around it and lightly push it down to firm it up.

Types of Succulents

With the growing popularity of succulents, a wide variety of these unique plants can now be found in most home and garden centers. Here are some popular types of succulents that are both decorative and easy to care :

• Burn Plant (Aloe Vera)

Aloe vera is known for its spiky leaves and growth pattern. The gel inside its leaves is often used to treat burns and cuts, making it both a practical and attractive addition to any plant collection.

• Jade Plant (Crassula Ovata)

The Jade Plant is recognized for its thick, egg-shaped leaves and is a favorite among houseplant lovers. It grows slowly and can tolerate some temperature changes, making it a low-maintenance choice.

• Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum tectorum)

These rosette-shaped succulents are adaptable and can grow both indoors and outside. They are adaptable to full sun or shade, making them resilient in various environments.

• Echeveria (Echeveria spp.)

Echeverias are known for their beautiful rosette formations and brilliant colors and thrive in well nutrient poor soil.

• Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana)

This drought-tolerant succulent has oval-shaped or scallop-edged leaves and blooms with clusters of bright flowers in shades of white, pink, red, yellow, or orange.

How to Grow Succulents from Seed?

Growing succulents from seed is another way to promote this plant. Here's a step-by-step guide to help ensure success:

• Use new soil since young succulents are vulnerable to germs. Heating the soil in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for about half an hour or using a microwave for approximately ten minutes should kill any contaminants present. Allow it to cool down before use.
• Prepare potting mix by combining equal parts fresh potting soil and coarse sand in a seed tray.
• Make sure the soil is moist but not soggy.
• Put one or two seeds into each section of the tray. Press them softly onto the soil's surface, but do not cover them as they require light to germinate.
• Cover the tray with a clear lid or place plastic wrap around it for humidity retention.
• Preferably, place the tray in a spot that receives indirect sunlight all day and maintains a temperature of about 70°F (21°C).
• Make sure the soil is continually wet, but not drenched. Gradually reduce watering so as not to overwater as seedlings develop their roots.

Pests & Diseases

Succulents are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can still be damaged by a few common problems. Here’s a detailed look at these pests and how to manage them:

• Mealybugs

This pest is present on the plant as a small clump of cotton, whitish, and it sucks the sap. This can make the plant weak and cause its leaves to turn yellow. To get rid of mealy bugs, fill a spray bottle with isopropyl alcohol and apply it on them directly, or use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to gently rub off affected areas.

• Fungus Gnats

Although fungus gnats do not hurt succulents, their larvae can damage roots by feeding on them. This can be especially detrimental to young seedlings. To manage fungus gnats, allow soil to dry out completely between watering because they breed best in moist conditions.

• Spider Mites

These minute pests leave small brown dots on leaves while draining sap from plants, resulting in possible damage. Drying air makes them flourish, which means high humidity levels could discourage them. Spray strongly to remove spider mites from the flowers so none are left.

• Leggy or Pale Plant

When succulents appear leggy or pale, it is generally a sign that they need more light. When these plants do not receive adequate sunlight, they will grow toward the light and eventually become weak and tall. To fix this problem, bring the plant closer to a sunny window if it’s inside or move it to a brighter place if outside. Cut off parts of the plant that have grown too long so that it becomes more compact in shape and vibrant again.

• Mushy Leaves or Stems

In many cases, the paleness and sogginess of succulent leaves and stems indicate root rot caused by overwatering. This is a common issue with succulents. Look for signs such as yellowing leaves, falling leaves, or wilting.

In such cases, remove any rotten roots and leaves before allowing the rest to dry in the open air. After this, the plant should be put into new, moisture-free soil. Wait for some days before watering again, and maybe consider increasing its exposure to the sun.

• Brown or Bleached Foliage

Succulents may get sunburn when exposed directly to much sunlight, especially during hot weather season. Brown or bleached spots on the leaves are indicators of sunburn, while crispy ones could mean insufficient watering.

Shade needs to be provided at the hottest times of the day for plant protection. Moreover, the water supply must be kept steady throughout this period. This product should go outside only in less intense sun during heat waves or intense sunlight days.

• Wrinkled Leaves and Stems

This situation often indicates a lack of enough water supplies because wrinkles develop on their stem edges instead of healthy looks. Check penetration depth into the soil using a finger or stick to ascertain there isn’t much dryness. If the ground is arid, give it a good watering followed by regular watering in subsequent applications. Be careful not to overwater, as it can cause similar symptoms.

FAQ’s

Can succulent plants grow indoors?

Yes, succulents can grow indoors with enough bright, indirect light. Place them near a south or east-facing window. Some varieties, like the Snake Plant, can handle lower light conditions but generally still need some brightness to thrive.

Can succulent plants tolerate cold weather?

Most succulents do not thrive under freezing temperatures and need protection from cold weather. However, some, like Sempervivum, are more tolerant of cold and will normally do better even when temperatures are lower.

How long do succulent plants live?

The lifespan of succulents varies by species, but many can thrive for decades with proper care. For example, Hens and Chicks typically live around 5 years, while Echeveria and Christmas Cactus can last up to 30 years. Some Crassula varieties can even live over 100 years. The longevity of a succulent can be influenced by factors such as environmental conditions and weather changes.

The Bottom Line

Succulents are a nice addition to any collection of plants since they are beautiful and easy to care. Gardeners can grow them by providing proper light, water, soil, or temperature care to ensure their healthy growth.

Regular pruning, proper potting, and effective pest management are essential for maintaining these resilient plants. Whether growing succulents from seeds or propagating from cuttings, they can provide lasting enjoyment with the right care.

Growcycle offers many gardening products, including specialized soil for growing succulents and stylish pots, to enable home gardeners to achieve their ultimate goals with succulents.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.