Tips + Information for Growing Succulents

· 3 min read
Tips + Information for Growing Succulents

Succulents, once deserted desert plants, are now household names. Is it their unique features that make them stand out among other houseplant varieties? The mass appeal of succulents is due to several factors. Plants like succulents are easy to maintain, and they are also durable and portable. From lush greens to rainbow mosaics, they are available in a variety of shapes and colors.

Succulent Overview
Originally, the word succulent was derived from the Latin word sucus, meaning drink, juice or sap. A succulent's leaves and stems keep large amounts of water to make them drought-resistant, so they live up to their name. These highly durable desert dwellers make excellent houseplants due to their flexibility and ability to withstand neglect, though certain varieties do better indoors than others.

If you are selecting your succulents, you should consider their size, style, color, care needs, and natural climate. They range in height from less than an inch tall, such as Blossfeldia liliputana, to over 12 feet, such as blue yucca. They also come in a wide range of colors and shapes. In addition to succulents from arid climates, there are a few types from tropical regions, such as the Macho mocha mangave and octopus agave.

Certain varieties of succulents require lots of natural light, but some houses don't have enough. Succulents that grow indoors usually do better in bright light than those that grow outdoors. It is important to try and reproduce their natural habitat as much as possible so you can provide the best care.

Common Types of Succulents
Approximately 60 plant species can be classified as succulents. In addition to Sempervivum, Cactaceae (cacti), Sedum and Haworthia, there are also several other popular families. Throughout this guide, we've provided examples and pictures of types of succulents from each family. Discover some of the things that make these plant families distinct, and decide which one is the right one for you.

Cactaceae (cacti)
There is no doubt that cacti are one of the most recognizable types of succulents with their prickly spines. Their acclimation to the desert allows them to endure extreme cold and heat and survive with little water.

Haworthia
A Haworthia plant is a type of succulent native to Southern Africa. It is sunny and dry there a lot. Succulents of the Haworthia genus make up a large part of the succulent family, despite their small size.

Sedum
Sedum succulents come in a variety of sizes and shapes; the smallest are just a few inches tall, while the largest reach heights of three feet. Crassulaceae plants such as the jade plant of which Sedum is a member form the family of the Crassulaceae. They can withstand lots of sun and a little water.

Sempervivum
A rosette-shaped succulent is the hallmark of Sempervivum plants. Various colors and varieties are available, as well as some that flower. The hardy succulents are also frost resistant, fitting for a plant called the "always alive" plant.

Succulent Care Tips
Despite their tough exterior, succulents still need love and attention. Dead leaves are common at the bottom of the plant, so simply remove them to keep your plant happy. Avoid a common plant care faux pas by following these guidelines below to avoid killing one of the most hardy plants.

Sunlight is essential for succulents' development, with most of them needing at least 36 hours of direct sunlight per day. If possible, place it in a space with plenty of sunlight, such as a south or east-facing window. It is very unlikely that too much direct sunlight can sunburn a succulent, but keep an eye out for unusual scorch marks. If succulents are not receiving enough light, their leaves may stretch outward as they seek to absorb as much sunlight as possible.

Desert climate adaptations allow succulents to flourish without requiring much water.  led grow light strips  should allow soil to dry completely before watering them again. Plants' roots could rot and die if you do not let them dry between waterings. In a very hot environment with an efficient drainage system, their soil may need to be watered more frequently every 23 weeks since it will dry up sooner. The amount of water they require will decrease as the weather gets colder.

Due to their accustomed extreme climates, succulents can be grown in temperatures as high as 4095 F. However, some of the more delicate varieties should be kept in a more conservative temperature range. Accordingly, the temperature in which you keep the succulents should be tied to the amount of water it receives.

Most succulents are not toxic. Succulents such as Opuntia ficus-indica (prickly pear) and Aloe vera are frequently used as ingredients in a variety of delicious dishes. Cacti and succulent varieties, primarily, have sharp spines that should be avoided because they can puncture skin. Succulents are generally not toxic to humans or pets, however, you should avoid some varieties if you have young children or pets at home.

Succubuses should be planted in soil and planters with adequate drainage. Adding organic matter like peat moss, rocks, and pebbles to a cacti soil base can improve drainage. Repotting requirements fluctuate based on how fast your plant grows and whether or not you need to move it indoors for winter. Check out our guide to repotting a plant if you have outgrown its current pot or it needs a warmer environment.