Succulents are plants that store water in their leaves, stems, and sometimes in their roots. They have evolved in arid regions of the world and do not need much watering to thrive. Indeed, what is a normal amount of water for other types of plants can cause succulents to sicken and even die. Here is how to take care of them:
Light
One thing that nearly all succulents need is light that is at least bright. If the light is less than bright, they tend to be leggy. Because of this, it is best to put them in a southern window if they are being grown as houseplants or plant them in a sunny part of the garden if they are being grown outdoors. Succulents generally need half a day of full sun to be their best.
Temperature
Most succulents not only evolved in places where water was scarce but in hot deserts, and most can’t tolerate freezes. Some of the few succulents that can bear up under the freezing weather are agaves and sedum, and it’s still a good idea to protect them if they are outdoors and can’t be brought in. Other succulents need to overwinter in the house or greenhouse. This is why it’s a good idea to put succulents in pots even if they are being grown outside. Succulents won’t need to be watered or fertilized during the winter, but their need for bright light does not diminish.
An ideal temperature for most succulents is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and the temperature should not fall below 50 degrees F.
Soil
Succulents need soil that drains quickly, and gardening experts recommend that they are placed in soil made for cacti. If that’s not available, you can put together a potting mix made of one part sand and two parts regular potting soil. The pot needs to have at least one drainage hole, and a pot made of terra cotta is an excellent choice. Unlike plastic pots, terra cotta pots don’t hold on to water for very long, and they almost always come with drain holes. This isn’t necessarily true for plastic pots. Some gravel sprinkled over the soil is also helpful. Gravel keeps the soil dry and is aesthetically pleasing.
If the succulent is to be planted permanently outdoors, the soil must drain well. If it doesn’t, either don’t put the plant there or amend it with sand or gravel.
Fertilizing
Fertilize succulents once a month during the spring and summer when they are growing. They respond well to diluted houseplant fertilizer, though organic fertilizers such as compost deliver nutrients more gently.
Watering
Most succulents need to be watered deeply only once a week, if that. Add water until it starts to seep out of the drain hole, and don’t water the plant again until the soil is dry.
About Succulent Gardens
The succulent gardens found in nurseries and even supermarkets look sweet, but they don’t often last. It is best to buy individual plants.