The processes involve only a few steps and require a bit of time and effort. If you have children, ask them to help you out and turn the propagation of succulents into a learning experience!

Propagation is the process of taking a section of a mature species of succulent and using that section to grow a new succulent. Although propagation is a simple process, there are some varieties that can present more difficulty than others.

There are four ways to propagate succulents – leaf, stem, offsets or pups, and seeds.

Propagating through leaves is best used with varieties of succulents that have thick and fleshy leaves. The Echeveria variety which originates from Mexico comes to mind. Echeverias have plump leaves that are used to store water.

To ensure a successful propagation, the leaf must be healthy and it must be removed using a clean pull. Thick and plump leaves are easier to twist and pull compared to thinner ones.

There are two ways to remove a leaf.

First, is to slowly twist the leaf then do a gentle tug or pull. It’s very important that when the leaf comes off, there are no leftover parts on the stem.

The second way of removing a leaf is with the use of a sharpened and sterilized knife or a pair of garden shears. With this method, choose a leaf near the base of the plant and perform a clean cut making sure the leaf is removed without damage.

The next step is very important to grow a new succulent.

Once you have cleanly removed the leaf from the plant, place it under a Grow Light and in a dry area so it can harden or develop calluses.

Hardening to allowing the leaf to have calluses is crucial because a callus creates “growth points” that give rise to the growth of roots.

It will take anywhere from two to four days for the leaf to properly develop calluses. When the leaves have hardened, place it on a pan filled with well-draining soil that has been moistened.

The best growing environment to successfully propagate succulents is one that is warm and has access to indirect sunlight.

Always keep the soil moist. If the soil is dry to the touch, use a spray bottle and mist the leaves.

Within three weeks, you should see roots and leaves growing. It will take another few months before a succulent is mature enough for re-potting.

A good sign is if the leaf has turned brown and has fallen off. This means the leaf has absorbed all of the nutrients that it can from the soil and the new plant has no more use of it. 

How To Propagate Succulents With Stem Cuttings

Succulents with leaves that form into rosettes are ideal for propagation through the use of stem cuttings because this type of plant grows strong and healthy stems.

If you decide to propagate the succulent with the use of stem cuttings, you will have greater success when the process is done before the start of its active growth period which is usually the months of spring to early summer.

You may also pull off a successful propagation with stem cuttings if it is performed during winter which is the plant’s dormant period.

You will need a sharp and sterilized knife of garden shears to perform the precise cutting of a stem. The ideal stem is one that is short and located closest to the base of the plant. When cutting the stem, take great care that it is not damaged.

Place the stem in a dry area that receives indirect sunlight to allow it to develop calluses. The calluses will also prevent the stem from rotting and acquiring disease once it is re-potted.

When the stem has properly hardened, insert it into a pot filled with well-draining soil. Give the soil water whenever it has completely dried out. 

How To Propagate Succulents With Offsets Or Pups

Propagating succulents with the use of offsets is one of the best ways to grow the species because the “parent” or main plant has done most of the hard work for you.

Offsets are also called “pups” because they are regarded as offspring of the succulent plant. They sprout out when the roots that have the leaf clusters come out of the parent plant. You can consider the pups as “new succulents”.

Before removing the offsets from the base of the main plant, you have to brush off the topsoil until you can clearly see the roots and perform a clean pull. Deliberately but gently pull out the offset and make sure most of its roots are intact.

If the offsets remain connected to the main plant, use a sterilized and sharpened knife to cut them off.

Similar to propagation through leaves and cuttings, allow the offsets to develop calluses by placing them in a dry area that gets indirect sunlight.

When the offsets have properly healed and developed calluses, re-plant them in a pot that contains moistened well-draining soil. Give the soil water whenever it has completely dried out.

In a few weeks, the offsets will form new roots and begin the growth process. 

How To Propagate Succulents With Seeds

Propagating succulents with seeds will need more time and patience than any other method. It is definitely the slowest way to propagate succulents.

A succulent produces seeds after the flowering period. You can find the seeds at the base of the “fruit” or flower of the succulents. The seeds might appear to be dust-like in texture and this can make the propagation process more difficult. Another option is to buy seeds from the local garden store.

Before planting the seeds, soak them in warm water for 30-minutes to remove their coating. Next, fill a planter with well-draining soil such as cactus and give it a good soaking with water.

After 30-minutes, cover the seeds with moistened soil. Do not bury them under the soil. Take great care that there is enough spacing between the seeds to allow the roots to grow properly.

The next step will ensure the proper growth of the seeds through a process called germination.

Cover the moistened seeds with plastic. This step simulates the conditions of a “greenhouse” and will allow proper germination to take place. Six weeks after germination, you can begin to water the soil whenever it has thoroughly dried out.

Conclusion

Propagating succulents is simple, easy, and fun. It is an activity that you can do with the family.

It’s very important to be patient with the propagation process. You may not get it right the first time and that’s perfectly fine. Not everyone is born with a green thumb. It may take practice but eventually, you will become a natural!

The important thing to remember is that you have four methods to choose from. Your choice of technique will depend on the type of succulent that you want to propagate.

The post How To Propagate Succulents appeared first on About Succulents.

“Just give them water when the soil has gone dry and make sure they get sunlight every day.”

Yes, if you water the succulent too frequently, the roots could rot. If you don’t give the plant enough sunlight, the succulent’s leaves will stretch out and wither in a process called etiolation.

The word “succulent” describes a category of plants. It is not a botanical name for a particular species of plant. 

Succulents cover a wide range of plant families with their own specific traits and qualities. Some have leaves that form a rosette while other types have thick, plump leaves that allow them to store more water.

Knowing the type of succulent plant you have will allow you to give it the proper care it needs to survive and thrive. 

How To Identify 3 Popular Types Of Succulents

You may have an idea of the type of succulent you want. You could have seen it on social media, a friend’s house, or in the lobby of a hotel. 

You decide to drive down the garden store. The manager tells you to go to the aisle labeled “Succulents”. If you’re lucky, the store might give more information such as “Cactus Succulents”, “South Africa Succulents”, and “Mexico Succulents”. 

“Where is it?”

There are so many succulents to choose from! Many of them look-alike with similar physical characteristics. 

Sure, the manager could lend assistance. But if he’s busy or has limited knowledge of succulents, you might leave the store empty-handed. 

To make your life easier, we’ve hand-picked 3 popular types of succulents that come from the Crassulaceae family – Crassulas, Sedums, and Kalanchoes – and how to identify them from a garden store or nursery. 

We’ve also included valuable tips on how to grow them indoors or outdoors.

Crassulas

The Crassula sub-species are popular because of the Crassula Ovata or Jade Plant. Horticulturists love the Crassula because of its exquisite look. It is identified by symmetrical petals that are unique to one another; also called a five-petaled calyx.

A succulent from the Crassula genus has thick leaves and some varieties have woody stems. It is also a succulent that produces flowers. There are varieties of Crassula succulents that are monocarpic – meaning they die after flowering. 

4 Tips On Growing Crassula Succulents Indoors

• Crassula succulents are one of the more durable and resilient plants that you can grow. For example, a Crassula Ovata only needs one thorough watering per month. It is also the ideal indoor plant because Crassula Ovata can thrive in filtered sunlight.
• The best soil to use for crassulas is sandy soil or cactus mix.
• Place your crassulas in a windowsill that is facing South.
• In the summer months, crassulas become dormant. During this period, give the succulents a good drenching once-a-month until the cooler months come in and the plants start to come to life.

3 Tips On Growing Crassulas Outdoors

• Crassulas are best planted outdoors if you live in a region that is categorized as USDA growing zones 9 or 10.
• During the winter season, bring the crassulas indoors.
• When the crassulas start to grow, they become top-heavy and may fall over. Insert a stake on the soil to give the plants more support. 

Sedums

There are hundreds of species of Sedum that are available in different sizes, colors, and shapes. Horticulturists grow sedums as houseplants, shrubs, flowering perennials, and ground cover. A Sedum produces flowers that have five petals. It does not get woody stems. 

3 Tips On Growing Sedums Indoors

• Sedums grow best when planted in cactus soil.
• A twice-a-month watering schedule works best for sedums.
• Sedums come in different colors. For indoor plants, choose sedums that have bright green leaves.

3 Tips On Growing Sedums Outdoors

• Regions that fall under USDA growing zones 5-9 are best for growing sedums outdoors especially as shrubs, flowering plants or ground cover.
• As outdoor plants, sedums thrive in flower beds. Add ornamental grasses if the sedums are shrubbier or taller.
• “Pork and Beans” is a variety of Sedum which is highly tolerant of drought. Sedums that are tolerant to drought grow best in partial shade or full sun. Keep in mind that the amount of sunlight it receives will affect the color of the leaves.

Kalanchoes

Kalanchoes originate from South Africa or Madagascar which makes them comfortable in semi-tropical to tropical temperatures. There are around 200 species of kalanchoes that have identified. They are known to grow eye-catching foliage and are used as ornamental plants in houses located in colder regions.

Identifiable characteristics of kalanchoes include having clusters of flowers and the appearance of offshoots on the leaves. A typical Kalanchoe may have fuzzy leaves with pink edges and bright-pink flowers. 

3 Tips On Growing Kalanchoes Indoors

• Place kalanchoes in an area of the room that receives full to partial sun.
• Give the Kalanchoe water whenever its soil has completely dried out.
• Remove fallen leaves from under the Kalanchoe as this attracts mealybugs.

3 Tips On Growing Kalanchoes Outdoors

• Kalanchoes grow best in the outdoors in rock gardens or gravel gardens if the region is classified as USDA growing zones 10-11.
• Kalanchoes can survive winter but it is recommended to bring them indoors during the cold seasons.
• Outdoor kalanchoes need less frequent watering than indoor kalanchoes. 

Smart Ways To Have Your Succulent Identified

The 3 families of succulents that we just discussed – Crassula, Sedum, and Kalanchoe – account for hundreds of types of succulents in the market. By using our tips, it will be easier for you to identify your preferred succulent at the garden store or nursery.

But what if your preferred succulent is not from the Crassula, Sedum or Kalanchoe families? How will you find them?

Here are 4 smart ways to have your succulent identified.

1. Social Media

Social media attracts like-minded people. Chances are, many in your community are succulent-growers. 

Simply post an image of the succulent and ask your community for help. You might also want to put up a special page for succulent growers and invite your friends to join. 

2. Special Interest Web Forums

A simple Google search will yield web forums that cater to people who have a special affinity with succulents. Garden Web Forum is a good one to start with. To get started all you have to do is open a user account.

As a first-time member, stay on the sidelines and get a feel of the discussions. Join in once in a while and offer your opinions. After a few exchanges, pick up the pace and be more active. 

In time, you can post 3-4 questions to the group. Ask help in identifying succulents. The response time can be very fast!

3. Apps

Apps are developed to address a need – including identifying succulents! Here are a few apps that might want to download on your smartphone:

• PictureThis
• Pl@ntNet
• INaturalist

4. Photo ID

If you come across a succulent that interests you – take a picture with your smartphone. 

When you’re at the garden store, show the manager the picture. Make sure you take pictures from different angles and distances to give the manager an idea of the type of succulent you want. 

Conclusion

Be patient when it comes to identifying your succulent. Finding your preferred succulent may take time but it will be worth it. 

Think of it as a treasure hunt. When you’ve finally found the succulent you want, not only will you adorn your garden or home the way you want it. But by following the tips we’ve given, you will enjoy many fruitful years with the succulent.

The post How To Identify The Type Of Succulent Plant You Want appeared first on About Succulents.

For those who prefer their succulents indoors, growing them in pots with a drainage hole may present a problem if excess water spills out of the catch tray. 

The most viable solution might be to plant the succulent in a pot that has no drainage hole. 

The solution might sound like it’s going against conventional wisdom because as we just discussed, succulents cannot be immersed in water for more than two days or else its roots will rot. 

The truth is, with a little bit of planning and foresight, you can successfully grow a succulent in a pot without a drainage hole. 

5 Ways You Can Water Succulents In A Pot That Has No Drainage Hole

If it wasn’t possible for succulents to survive in a pot with no drainage hole, there wouldn’t be a market for pots that don’t have this feature. 

Yes, you can find many beautiful pots that don’t have a drainage hole. And yes, there are succulent growers who buy them!

If you decide to buy one, your biggest problem would be to find ways to remove the excess water so you can prevent root rot. 

We’ve taken away the guesswork and have listed 5 ways to solve the problem of eliminating excess water and help the soil dry out faster.

1. Use Well-Draining Soil

More important than the drainage hole is the quality of the soil that the succulent is planted in. The best soil to use is one that is well-draining such as cactus soil or a commercial blend that has been formulated specifically for succulents. 

Well-draining soil allows water to evaporate naturally. It is also well-aerated and lets air flow freely between the roots of the plant.  

Combine well-draining soil with a pot that has no drainage hole but is made of terra cotta or unglazed ceramic. Both types of potting materials encourage water to naturally evaporate from the sides of the pot. 

2. Improve Drainage by Adding These Ingredients

In addition to using well-draining soil, you should include a few ingredients that will further improve the quality of drainage. Make sure you have a large pot with enough room to fit the additional ingredients. 

At the bottom of the pot, create a layer made of rocks, pumice, stones or pebbles. If you wish, you can make the layer a combination of these ingredients. The purpose of this layer is to act as a catch basin – excess water will flow out of the soil and rest underneath the rocks. 

Place a ½ inch layer of activated charcoal on top of the layer of rocks. Adding activated charcoal provides two key benefits:

• Activated charcoal is an excellent absorbent of moisture.
• It has anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties that will further protect the roots from rotting and other types of infection.

3. Measure the Amount of Water

The rule of thumb when watering succulents is to give the soil a “good soaking”. This rule applies if your pot has a drainage hole. Without the drainage hole, it is not recommended to give the soil a good soaking. 

Instead, you should measure the amount of water that you give the succulent. The question is “How much water should you give the succulent without drenching the soil and cause excess moisture?”

For this, we will introduce another rule of thumb:

The amount of water you give to a succulent planted in a pot without a drainage hole should be equivalent to ½ the volume that can be accommodated by the pot. 

For example, if your pot can hold two cups of water, give the soil only one cup of water. 

When applying this rule, observe any changes in the succulent. If the leaves are changing color or show signs of thinning out, adjust the amount of water by 50% or one-and-a-half cups in the next watering schedule.

Don’t guess the amount of water you are giving the succulent. You can use a measuring cup, a water bottle or a pipette to water the soil. 

4. Keep Track of the Watering Schedule

The frequency of watering will depend on how fast the soil dries out. Factors such as temperature and the weather can affect the moisture level of the soil. It is important to keep track of the watering schedule to make sure you don’t overwater the soil.

Monitoring the moisture level of the soil can be a challenge when the succulent is grown indoors because there are other variables to consider such as whether the room is air-conditioned or not or if there is sufficient ventilation. 

It is a good idea to use more precise methods of testing the moisture content of the soil than just feel. You might want to insert a stick an inch into the topsoil or use a measuring instrument such as a hygrometer.

5. Final Solution – Re-pot the Succulent

If you notice that the succulent’s condition has taken a turn for the worse, it might be a good idea to re-pot the succulent. It is possible that the roots have started to rot. 

Re-potting will ensure that the succulent has a second lease on life by getting re-planted in fresh soil. 

Conclusion

You can still grow a succulent in a pot that has no drainage hole by following our five tips. Using a glass pot might make it easier for you to measure the right amount of water to give your succulent. Let’s call that tip number 6!

Succulent plants are a great addition to any home. They add color and life to any room. To enjoy the company of your succulent, make sure they receive the right amount of sunlight and water.

The post 5 Ways You Can Water Succulents If Your Pot Has No Drainage Hole appeared first on About Succulents.

You’ve ticked off the boxes in the Succulent Plant to-do list: Watering, sunlight exposure, fertilizer, succulent pot, and soil.

So why is your succulent dying?

Here are 6 reasons that could explain why your succulent is in poor health and could be close to death.

1. Overwatering

Do you notice more dead leaves near the areas where there is new growth in the succulent? Do the leaves feel mushy or soggy to the touch? Are the leaves turning yellowish?

If your succulent exhibits any of these three signs, it could be showing signs of overwatering. If you notice the appearance of tiny black spots on its leaves, then your succulent could be in the advanced stages of overwatering.

This means the plant’s roots could be starting to rot. If left untreated, the deterioration of the roots will develop into an infection that can spread throughout the plant. 

When the plant shows visible signs of rotting including discoloration of the leaves, the first thing you should do is to cut off the infected sections of the plant with a pair of sterilized and sharpened garden shears. 

Set aside cuttings or perform a clean pull of the healthy leaves. In many varieties of succulents, you can use the stem cuttings and leaves to propagate new plants. You can also propagate from offsets or pups that appear near the base of the plant.

Once you have removed the infected sections of the plant, gently remove it from the soil and look for roots that have rotted or in the process of deterioration. Use the sterilized pair of garden shears to remove the infected roots. 

Similar to the cuttings and leaves, allow the newly-trimmed succulent to rest and dry out completely. 

Prepare a new pot for the succulent. Make sure it is filled with well-draining soil. Once the succulent has dried out, replant it in fresh soil.

2. Underwatering

Rescuing a succulent that has not received enough water or under-watered is not as problematic as treating an over-watered succulent. 

You can tell if the succulent is under-watered if the leaves show signs of wrinkling, drying out or feel crispy to the touch. 

In some cases, the leaves stretch outward and up as if they were searching for water. As the leaves continue to stretch, it will become thinner and weaker. The condition whereby the leaves stretch outward due to the absence of water is called etiolation. 

To restore the health of an under-watered succulent, all you have to do is to give it a generous amount of watering. 

The soil should be drenched with water spilling onto the drip tray underneath the pot. In a few days, you will notice the leaves look more plump and perkier than before. 

If the leaves are severely wrinkled and appear drawn out of moisture, it may be too late to save the succulent. 

3. Not Enough Sunlight

Like other plants, succulents need sunlight to convert the nutrients found in soil into food. Without enough sunlight, the succulent will have limited sources of nutrients. Over time, it will shrivel and die. Succulents also thrive in warm weather. 

You will know right away if the succulent is not getting enough sunlight because the leaves change color. Succulents with bright-colored leaves – orange, red, and yellow – can lose their original color and become dull if they don’t receive enough sun.

Etiolation can also happen to plants that don’t receive enough sunlight. The leaves will stretch out as if yearning for sunlight. 

How much sun is enough? 

For outdoor succulents, place them in an area in the garden that receives up to six hours of morning sunlight. For indoor succulents, place the pot near a window that gets three to six hours of partial or indirect sunlight. 

If the room does not get enough sunlight, you can place the succulent under a Grow Light for up to six hours every day. 

When moving an indoor succulent to an outdoor location, do it gradually. Slowly introduce the succulent to sunlight. Immediate exposure to direct sunlight may lead to sunburn. At all costs, avoid exposing the succulent to the afternoon sun.

4. Not Using the Right Type of Soil

The best type of soil for succulents is one that is well-draining and encourages air circulation between the roots. Well-draining soil supports the process of evaporation which removes excess moisture much faster. 

Sandy soil and cactus soil are the best choices of soil for your succulent. You can include other ingredients such as pumice, pebbles, rocks, and perlite to further improve the quality of drainage. 

You can also give the succulent fertilizer to boost its nutrition. The ideal time to fertilize succulents is during the growing season which is usually spring. 

Manure tea and diluted fish emulsion are among the recommended types of fertilizer for succulents. Make sure the fertilizer is diluted to only ½ its original strength as stated in the package. 

Fertilize only once during the growing season and again before the succulent goes through a period of dormancy.

5. Wrong Choice of Container 

Buying the wrong kind of pot can also put the health of your succulent at risk. What should you look for in a succulent pot?

First, there must be a drainage hole that is large enough to allow excess water to flow out of the soil.

Second, choose a material that encourages the natural evaporation of moisture from the soil. The recommended materials for succulent pots are terra cotta and unglazed ceramic.

Third, don’t buy a pot that is too deep. Otherwise, water may tend to collect at the bottom of the pot and make it more difficult for the roots to sip what they need to survive. 

Fourth, when propagating succulents, leave enough space between the leaves or cuttings to allow the roots to grow properly. 

6. Wrong Type of Succulent

If you want to grow succulents indoors, the best type of succulent to buy are the varieties with dark green leaves. These succulents only need partial and indirect sunlight to survive. 

Succulents with plump and dark green leaves such as the Echeverias also make good indoor plants because they do not require frequent watering. 

As succulents that originate from Mexico, the plump leaves naturally store water to keep the plant hydrated during the hot and dry months.

Succulents that have bright-colored leaves are perfect outdoor plants. Having regular exposure to sunlight will allow these types of succulents to retain their natural colors. 

Conclusion

Succulents need love and care like all living things. They can get sick and die if the symptoms are not immediately identified and treated. If caught in the early stages, the succulent can be cured and continue to live a long and healthy life – in your garden or inside your home.

The post 6 Reasons Why Your Succulent Is Dying appeared first on About Succulents.

Succulents are everywhere! They have become increasingly popular over the years not only because of their eye-catching appeal but succulents are one of the easiest plants to grow.

If you’ve been thinking of growing succulents in your garden or inside your home, we’re here to tell you to “Go for it!”

Take a few minutes to read our article on how to plant succulents so they can lead long and happy lives at your home!

Step 1 – Where Do You Want to Plant the Succulents?

Succulents are the James Bond of plants – they are drop-dead gorgeous but can withstand harsh weather conditions. 

You can plant succulents outdoors or indoors. Keep in mind there are types of succulents that grow better in certain conditions. A good rule of thumb is to decide on the location of your succulent plant based on the color of its leaves. 

Succulents that have bright-colored leaves – orange, red or yellow – thrive better outdoors because they need regular sun exposure to maintain their colors. 

Succulents that have dark green leaves are best grown indoors because they can survive with only partial exposure to sunlight. 

If you’ve decided to grow your succulents outdoors, plant them in a location where they can get at least six hours of the morning sun. Avoid planting succulents in locations that get the full brunt of the afternoon sun as its leaves can get sunburned. 

Step 2 – Gather the Materials That You Need

First, let’s talk about the materials you need for growing succulents indoors:

• Container/Pot 
• Soil
• Fertilizer

We recommend choosing a pot that’s made of terra cotta or unglazed ceramic. These types of materials allow evaporation to take place by letting moisture leave the soil along the sides of the pot. 

The pot should also have a good-sized drainage hole that can enable excess water to flow out of the soil. Place mesh tape over the drainage hole. You want the water to flow out, not big chunks of soil. Make sure there is a drip tray placed underneath the drainage hole. 

For the succulent soil, choose cactus, sandy soil, or any commercial brand that has been formulated to support the growth of the plant. These types of soil have great drainage properties. In addition, they are well-aerated which means air moves freely between the plant’s roots. 

Drainage is an important quality in soil because if the roots are left to sit in a moist environment for a long time – more than three days – they can rot. Once the roots start to rot, it can develop an infection that can quickly spread throughout the plant. 

To further improve drainage, add ingredients such as perlite, pumice, pebbles or coarse sand to the mix at a 1:1 ratio.

Succulents can grow healthy without fertilizer but you have nothing to lose by adding it to their diet at least once during the growing season and again before they become dormant. 

You can use any brand of fertilizer that has been formulated for succulents. We recommend a balanced blend made up of 8% Nitrogen, 8% Phosphorous, and 8% Potassium. Simply ask the garden store for a low-balanced, soluble 8-8-8 fertilizer mix.

Before adding fertilizer to the soil, reduce its potency to ½ the strength that is indicated in the package. The standard mixture is one tablespoon per gallon of water. Reduce the ratio to ½ tablespoon per gallon of water.

Step 3 – Remove the Succulent From its Pot

Succulents that are bought from nurseries or commercial gardening stores are kept in plastic pots and densely packed in soil. To grow healthy indoor succulents, remove the succulent from the pot and shake off excess soil from its roots. 

Take a few seconds to check the condition of the roots. If you see damaged roots or some that are in the early stages of rotting, cut them off with a sharpened and sterilized pair of garden shears.

Step 4 – Re-plant the Succulent In Its New Pot

Now it’s time to plant the succulent in its new home!

Fill up the pot with succulent soil but not all the way to the top. If the roots of the succulent are long, leave more space at the bottom for them to grow. Gently nestle the succulent’s roots on top of the soil. Give them room to circulate, don’t pack them in tightly. 

When the succulent looks comfortable and stable in its new home, pour in more soil but again, don’t fill it to the top. 

The extra space will be used for “top dressing” – materials that will accentuate the elegance and beauty of your succulent plant. Good choices for top dressing are gravel and small pebbles. 

What About Outdoor Succulents?

If you want to grow your succulents outdoors, you can plant them directly into a soil mixture that is specifically formulated for succulents. 

There should at least be six inches of soil provided for the succulent’s roots to grow and relieve itself of excess water.  If you are creating a succulent garden, give each type of succulent enough space to grow without overcrowding the roots. 

You may also want to place them in pots or hanging baskets. Succulents that have trailing leaves such as String of Buttons, Ruby Necklace, and String of Hearts will look great in hanging baskets.

Conclusion

When should you water a newly-planted succulent?

Before giving your succulent water, let it “rest” for one to two days. Some of the roots could have been damaged during the re-planting stage. Allowing the succulent one to two days rest will give the roots time to set itself in the soil. 

Planting a succulent is easy! It’s another reason why many people are growing succulents in their homes. 

The post How To Plant Succulents appeared first on About Succulents.

Horticulturists love succulents because as outdoor plants, they can make a garden come to life. Grown indoors, succulents add color, style, and make interesting conversation pieces with friends and family. 

We have created this guide on how to care for succulents to help you enjoy the pleasures of growing these exquisite and charming plants.

Our guide will give you valuable information on the key areas needed for growing healthy and beautiful succulents outdoors or indoors – sunlight, water, pot and soil, and fertilizer.

Sunlight

Succulents need sunlight to create their own food through the process of photosynthesis. To grow a healthy succulent, your plant should receive six hours of sunlight per day. 

Without enough sunlight, the leaves will thin out and shrivel. You might notice some succulents’ leaves stretching and thinning out; as if they were reaching for the sun. This is a condition called etiolation and it happens when the succulent plant is not getting enough sunlight. 

If you want to grow succulents as part of an outdoor garden, ground cover, or in hanging baskets, place them in areas that get four to six hours of exposure to morning sunlight. 

However, if you are buying succulents from a garden store find out if the plants were grown indoors. If so, the plants should be gradually re-introduced to sun exposure. Otherwise, the leaves can get scorched. 

Succulents can also be grown as indoor plants especially in regions where temperatures can drop below freezing levels. 

There are varieties of succulent plants that are resistant to frosts such as Sempervivums and Stonecrop Sedums. The majority are not frost-tolerant. 

To be safe, if the temperature in your region drops below -20 Fahrenheit or -28 Celsius, plant the succulent in a container and move it indoors. 

Indoor succulents still need regular exposure to sunlight. You can ensure the health and proper growth of your indoor succulent by placing the container near a window that brings in four to six hours of sunlight per day.

If getting enough sunlight is a problem, buy a Grow Light for your succulent. Place the plant under the Grow Light for up to six hours per day.

Water

Water is another component of photosynthesis, after sunlight and carbon dioxide. Succulents need water to extract nutrients from the soil. Without water, a succulent’s leaves will lose their plumpness, thin out, and eventually die. 

While it is important for your succulent plant to receive water, giving it too much water will do it more harm than good. In fact, overwatering could lead to your plant’s demise.

So how do you know that it is time to water your succulent?

The first thing you need to do is to check the moisture level of its soil. You can do this by simply feeling out the topsoil. If it is dry to the touch, then it’s time to water your succulent. 

Another way is to insert a stick one-inch into the topsoil. If the end of the stick feels dry to the touch, give the soil a good soaking. You can also use a hygrometer to check the moisture level of the soil.

During the spring and summertime, you might notice that your succulent plants are getting water every seven to ten days. In the wintertime, succulents need less water because the soil stays moist longer. 

When watering, always make sure the soil gets thoroughly drenched. The best way to water succulent plants is with the use of a garden hose or a container with a long neck spout. 

Do not water the succulent from above because it will get the leaves wet and keep the plant in a moistened state much longer. Always water the succulent from below. 

If you overwater a succulent, its roots will rot. The plant will develop an infection that can spread throughout and kill your succulent. 

A succulent can survive long dry periods and drought because its leaves and stems store water. You might notice that your succulent remains healthy even if you haven’t watered it for more than one week. 

Pot and Soil

Did you buy your succulent online, from a nearby nursery or a local garden shop? If so, re-pot the succulent plant right away. Chances are, the succulent was kept in a plastic pot that does not have a drainage hole. 

The best pot to plant your succulent in is one that is made of terra cotta. This type of material works best for succulents because it is breathable, encourages evaporation, and does not allow water to accumulate. 

You can also use a ceramic pot that has not undergone the glazing process. Similar to terra cotta, ceramic pots allow evaporation to take place which dries out the soil faster.

The pot must be large enough to give the succulent’s roots room to grow. Most importantly, the pot must have a drainage hole that will enable excess water to flow out freely. 

Succulents grow best in well-draining and well-aerated soil. You can use cactus soil or any variety that is formulated for succulents. 

To improve drainage and moisture content, add ingredients such as pumice, perlite, coarse sand, and lava rock at a 1:1 ratio to cactus soil. 

Fertilizer

Fertilizer adds nourishment to the soil. Succulents don’t need much fertilizer but it will be a good idea to include it in their diet during the spring and summer growing season. 

Choose a brand of fertilizer that is low in nitrogen. Then, dilute the fertilizer to ¼ its strength by dissolving it in water. 

Feed the succulent once during the spring which is the active growing season, and again in the summertime. Before giving the plant fertilizer, make sure the soil has dried out completely. 

Do not fertilize the succulent in the winter season which is considered the period of dormancy.

Succulents that are grown in a garden don’t require as much fertilizer as indoor succulents because outdoor soil has more nutrients. Irrigation from the pot removes more nutrients for succulents that are grown indoors. 

Indoor grown succulents respond better to fertilizer that is diluted to ½ its original strength. 

Conclusion

Growing succulents is a wonderful hobby. Before you start, it would be a good idea to figure out if you want to grow the succulent plant indoors or outdoors. 

If you want to grow succulents indoors, choose a variety that thrives with only partial sun. Do not go for succulents that have bright-colored leaves. Plants with red, yellow, or orange leaves need more sun exposure to maintain their bright colors. 

Instead, choose succulents with dark green leaves such as those belonging to the Gasteria and Haworthia varieties. 

Follow our growing tips and you will have healthy succulents adorning your garden or home in no time!

The post How To Care For Succulents appeared first on About Succulents.

Let’s take for example, watering.

As you well know, water helps transport nutrients from the soil to the plant. Without enough water, the plant will shrivel up and die.

Succulent plants have the advantage of storing extra amounts of water in their leaves, roots, and stems. For this reason, succulents are highly resistant to drought. They can survive long periods without water.

That does not mean you should be negligent about watering your succulent plant.

The succulent still needs water to support their growth. Like other plants, without water, the succulent plant will shrivel up and die.

On the other hand, giving the succulent too much water can lead to root rot. If the roots begin to rot, it will lead to an infection that can spread rapidly throughout the plant.

This article will tell you everything you need to know about watering your succulent plant.

How To Water Succulents

Before we answer the question of “How to water succulents?”, you have to answer this question first:

Where will you plant the succulent?

Succulents can be planted outdoors or indoors.

As an outdoor plant, a succulent can be planted in a garden or in a container. Fast-spreading succulents are popularly used as ground cover or to adorn walls as plants in hanging baskets.

You can also grow succulents indoors to liven up the office, the bedroom, and the kitchen.

Although succulents are resilient to weather changes, they are not as tolerant of frost as they are to drought.

If you live in a region where the temperature can drop below 20° F (-6.7° C), it will be a good idea to grow the succulent plant indoors.

Are you thinking of growing the succulent in a pot?

There are 2 important things to keep in mind when growing a succulent in a pot:

The type of pot to house the plant
The type of soil to grow the plant in

For the type of pot, choose a material that allows the soil to “breathe”. This means a pot that assists the evaporation of excess moisture from the soil. The best types of pot are those made of terracotta and unglazed clay.

You also have to make sure that the pot has a large enough drain hole to enable excess water to flow out.

Succulents thrive best in well-draining soil such as cactus. You can add ingredients such as perlite, pumice, lava rock, coarse sand, and loam to improve drainage.

Now, let’s move on to the topic of how to water succulents!

How Do You Know When A Succulent Needs Water?

The best way to know when a succulent needs water is to test the moisture level of its soil. There are 3 ways to do this.

First, is the “soak and dry” method. When watering a succulent, the rule is to give the soil a good soaking until it is completely drenched. You know that it’s time to water the succulent again when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Second, you can use a stick to measure the moisture level of the soil. Insert a stick one-inch into the topsoil. If the stick feels dry after you pull it out, then it’s time to give the succulent a thorough watering.

Third, you can use measuring tools such as a hygrometer. A hygrometer is a weather instrument that measures the level of humidity in the air but can also be used to assess the moisture content in the soil.

Most varieties of succulents demand more water during the spring and summertime because the soil tends to dry out faster. In contrast, succulents need less water in the winter months because the soil stays moist for a longer period.

It is very important to keep track of your succulent plant’s watering schedule. Overwatering or underwatering will not be good for the plant’s health.

The Dangers Of Overwatering A Succulent

Overwatering is the leading cause of death for succulents. If the roots of the succulent are immersed in water or kept in a moist environment for a prolonged period, they will rot.

Once the roots rot, it will develop an infection that can dangerously spread throughout the plant.

Discoloration of its leaves is a strong indication or root rot. Leaves that were once a healthy dark green will take on a yellowish color. If left unattended, the leaves will turn brownish or blackish which is a sign the plant is closer to death.

To keep the infection from spreading, cut out the discolored sections of the succulent with a pair of sanitized and sharpened garden shears. The next step is to prepare the plant for re-potting.

Gently remove the plant from its soil. Shake off excess soil from the roots so you can easily identify the ones that are rotting. If you see any rotting roots, cut them off with the garden shears. Once all the rotted roots have been removed, allow the plant to dry out completely under a shaded area.

Fill up a new pot with well-draining soil. Re-plant the succulent once it has properly dried out.

The Dangers Of Underwatering A Succulent

If a succulent is not receiving enough water, it will rely on its existing stores to survive. A succulent stores water in its stems and leaves. Once these water stores have been depleted, the plant will appear dry and shriveled up.

You can revive the dried out succulent by strictly following a watering schedule. Over time, the leaves can regain their color and plumpness.

As you have read, there is more danger to overwatering a succulent than underwatering it.

Smaller succulents can survive without water for up to four weeks. Larger succulents, especially those that are more tolerant of dry conditions such as cacti, can survive up to six months without water.

Here’s a tip: As previously mentioned, succulents store water in their leaves. Thus, succulents with thicker leaves such as a Pachyveria can survive longer periods without water than succulents with thinner leaves as the Aeonium Zwartkop.

Almost all varieties of succulents can handle one week without water. To know for sure, experiment with your succulent plant.

Garden Succulents

Succulents make wonderful additions to any garden. Sedums are a particularly wonderful variety of succulents that grow better when planted outdoors. Sedums have strong root systems and are very tolerant of arid conditions.

Garden soil tends to lose moisture faster. After checking the moisture level of your garden soil, you might observe that outdoor succulents need to receive water every seven to 10 days.

During the dry period, the succulent grows new roots that help it open up additional sources of nutrients from the soil.

Succulents in Outdoor Containers

If your outdoor succulent is part of a hanging garden, it may require watering as often as a succulent that is planted on the ground.

The watering schedule may change if you are moving the succulent from indoors to outdoors. You must gradually expose the plant to the sun.

For the first few days, place the succulent in an area that receives only partial sunlight. As such, the soil will retain moisture much longer. Once the soil has dried out completely, give it some water.

Indoor Succulents

Succulents that are grown indoors thrive when they are given a thorough watering rather than a few sprinklings here and there.

When it’s time to water the plant, give it a deep soaking. You know that you are watering correctly when the water runs out of the drainage holes and fills out the tray underneath it.

Remove the tray once the water has stopped dripping out of the pot. Do not allow the roots to stay submerged in water for a prolonged period. Otherwise, the roots will rot.

The frequency of watering an indoor succulent will depend on three factors:

Type of soil – Gritty, well-draining, and well-aerated soil inside a pot with good drainage may require watering every five to seven days.

Temperature – Less humid areas tend to dry out soil faster which means more frequent watering.

Climate – Dry climates will require more watering such as a five to seven-day schedule.

Three Common Mistakes When Watering Succulents

Succulent growers may wonder why their plants are dying even if they’re following the correct watering schedule.

If your plant is not thriving, it could be due to these two common mistakes when watering succulents.

Mistake #1 – Watering From Above

Don’t water the succulent plant from above because you will get the leaves wet. If this happens, the plant will remain moist longer and this could lead to root rot.

Another problem with watering from above is that the soil does not get a thorough drenching.

Always water the succulent from the ground. Make sure the soil gets a good soaking.

Mistake #2 – Watering with a Spray Bottle

Succulents should get soaked not sprayed. If you use a sprayer, you will end up misting the succulent instead of getting the soil drenched in much-needed water.

The best way to water succulents and give them a good soak is to use a watering can that has a long neck. It will make it easier to move and water the succulent all around.

The only time you should spray a succulent is when you are propagating them indoors.

Propagating succulents through its leaves will require a more frequent watering schedule. With a spray bottle, you can spritz the topsoil and the leaves will absorb the moisture from the air surrounding them.

Mistake #3 – Planting the Succulent in a Pot without a Drainage Hole

Using well-draining soil for your succulent plant will not yield any benefits if the pot does not have a drainage hole. The roots will remain immersed in water and will eventually rot.

Before buying a pot for your succulent, make sure there is a large enough drainage hole to allow excess water to flow out which will help dry out the soil.

Conclusion

Succulent plants are easy to grow and propagate. As all living things, it needs constant attention, love, and care.

Unlike other types of plants, succulents do not need frequent watering. If you went away for a one week vacation, your succulent will still be alive when you get back.

The most important thing to remember when it comes to watering succulent plants is not to overwater them. Many varieties are tolerant to drought. It is better to err on the side of caution and under water the plants than to give them more water than they need.

The post How To Water Succulent Plants appeared first on About Succulents.

Water allows the roots to extract the nutrients from the soil. However, having the roots immersed in a moist environment will cause them to rot. Once the roots begin to rot, an infection can develop and this can spread rapidly throughout the plant.

If your type of soil does not allow water to drain freely, it will keep the roots submerged and exposed to the risk of rotting. 

Before planting or re-potting your succulent plant, take a few minutes to read our informative guide on the best soil for succulents.

Qualities To Look For In The Best Soil For Succulents

Overwatering is the number one cause of death for succulents. It is not just giving the succulent too much water that results in root rot but having it sitting in water for a long period of time that can lead to its demise. 

You want a type of soil that will hold water long enough for the plant to get all the nutrients it needs before completely drying out. 

The first quality to look for is drainage. The best soil for your succulent is one that allows the effective draining of water. 

What qualities should you look out for when choosing the best soil for your succulent?

Drainage

Of course, the temperature of the region you live in is a factor that can affect the ability of the soil to expel water. In drier regions, it takes seven to 10 days for the soil to dry out completely. 

In colder regions, it may take up to two weeks – or longer – before the soil needs its next watering session. 

The type of pot you use for the succulent also plays a factor in the soil’s ability to release moisture. 

The best type of pot for your succulent must be made of terra cotta which supports the proper evaporation of water from the soil. Another good option is ceramic that has not undergone the glazing process. 

In either case, make sure the pot has a good-sized drain hole to allow excess water to flow out completely.

You should also consider the environment from which the variety of succulent plants came from.

For example, succulents that originate from the gravelly regions of Mexico such as the Echeveria genus would thrive in sandy and gritty soil. During the rainy season, this type of soil gets thoroughly drenched but it has the ability to dry out rapidly.

The Ratio of Organic to Mineral Components

Organic and mineral components can be found in soil. Organics are materials that used to be alive. Minerals are the inorganic substances that are naturally found in the soil.

The ideal soil should have the proper ratio of organic to mineral ingredients. The succulent can get its nutrients from the organic component while the natural minerals improve the level of drainage.

Depending on the temperature of the region and other environmental factors such as dryness and soil texture, your ratio of organic to mineral could range from 60% to 20%.

What are the best examples of organic materials?

• Pine Bark
• Coconut Coir
• Potting Soil
• Compost

For mineral ingredients, you can choose among the following:

• Volcanic Rock
• Perlite
• Coarse Sand
• Chicken Grit
• Fine Gravel

Do not use minerals that absorb water such as non-calcined clay and vermiculite. 

Texture Feel and Level of Porosity

The soil’s minerals are further characterized by their texture which is determined by grit size – sand (largest), silt, and clay (smallest).

The composition of the soil’s textures will have an effect on the soil’s level of drainage. Sandy soils that have larger pores and particles will dry out faster than clay.

For outdoor planting, we recommend using sandy loam mixed with 50% to 80% fine gravel or coarse sand. 

If you want to keep your succulent in a pot, add coarse grit components that have a diameter of one-half to a quarter of an inch. You can also use a blend of 1 part Coconut Coir and 1 part Pumice or Volcanic Rock. 

If you plan to grow your succulent indoors, we recommend choosing a soil particle that is larger – around ¼” or 6mm. To improve drainage while keeping the roots well-aerated, you can add the following ingredients:

• Crushed Granite
• Pine Bark Fines
• Turface

Add these ingredients to the soil at a 1:1 ratio. 

Is It Possible To Create An Effective Blend Of Soil For Succulents?

Yes!

You can create your own blend of soil for succulents by simply combining ⅓ organic component to ⅔ mineral component.

If you’re not sure of which type of organic and mineral component you should use, check out our lists below:

Best Types of Organic Component for Succulent Soil

1. Organic

• Potting Soil
• Pine Bark
• Compost
• Coconut Coir

2. Mineral

• Coarse Sand
• Perlite
• Volcanic Rock
• Gravel

Frequently Asked Questions

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