How to care for Succulents
How to care for Succulents

As a reservoir for times when the earth is dry, succulents store water in their leaves and roots. Because of this, it's crucial to routinely water succulent plants. However, take care not to overwater them since this can result in puckered or dull leaves, among other overwatering symptoms. When watering, be careful to leave the drainage holes open. Before watering, the soil should totally dry out.


They require a rich soil.

The health of your succulent plants depends on the soil in which they are grown. In addition to retaining water and oxygen, it shields the roots from abrupt temperature fluctuations. It also has minerals that are important for plant growth. Succulents' roots have extremely specific requirements, and good roots are a sign of a healthy plant. They require a dense soil that is not overly dense.

You can use either mineral-rich soil or organic-rich soil, depending on the type of succulent you are growing. Tree bark and compost are found in organically rich soils. Soils with higher minerals also have better drainage. Healthy development, the prevention of rot, and the avoidance of overwatering are all benefits of soil that is balanced in its mineral and organic content. The optimal mineral content range is 40% to 60%.

Potting soil and organic particles make up a succulent soil mixture. The potting soil needs to drain well. Avoid using heavy, black gardening soils because these are inappropriate for succulents. You can also incorporate pumice into the soil to enhance drainage.

Choose a deep, moist, but not overly wet soil when planting your succulents. To breathe and aid the soil in absorbing nutrients, the roots require air. Their health depends on this. Too much moisture in the soil will cause root rot, which will ultimately destroy the plant.


They must manage bugs.

Succulents frequently experience aphid problems, but you can help to avoid this by carefully monitoring your plants. Aphids, which are little green bugs, eat the nutrients that succulent plants offer. They may be present on their own, but they typically show up as part of an ant infestation. It's time to cure your plants right away if you discover that you have aphids. To get rid of the bugs, use horticulture spray or alcohol.

When moving diseased plants, use caution because insects can harm both indoor and outdoor plants. You can also treat your succulents with insecticidal soap. Since this soap doesn't contain chlorine, your plants are safe when using it. It operates by suffocating and killing young insects. Apply the insecticidal soap to your plants in the shade, either early in the morning or late at night.

Additionally, gnats might harm your plants. The white substance that whiteflies frequently create is challenging to clean up. Additionally, they create honeydew, which increases plant susceptibility to diseases. To get rid of these bugs, use rubbing alcohol or liquid dish soap diluted in water. To ensure success, you should administer this therapy again every few days.

For succulents, aphids are a major pest issue. By feasting on the plant's leaves and stems, they can harm it. They may also invade nearby plants. Another typical issue for succulents is spider mites. These little red arachnid bugs consume sap from succulent plants. Since they are difficult to see, it is crucial to get rid of them as soon as possible.


They must be rooted in soil with sufficient drainage.

Succulents must be grown in soil with enough drainage if you want the best results. Some succulents don't need much water, but others are drought-tolerant and can survive without drainage holes. If drainage is a concern, you can use glazed pots or drill holes in the bottom of the pots. Burlap can be used to fill larger holes, holding the earth in place for a while while still allowing drainage. Additionally, succulents prefer indirect light; if you set them in full sun, they won't survive.

Organic and mineral components are combined to create the perfect soil. While mineral matter aids the plant in absorbing water and nutrients, organic matter helps keep moisture in the soil. The ideal combination of these two components in an excellent soil mixture produces the optimum growing conditions and guards against root rot. Succulent plants should be grown on soil that drains well but doesn't contain a lot of organic materials.

Sand, one part gardening soil, and one part perlite make up the ideal potting mixture for succulents. Three cups of soil to one cup of perlite and two cups of sand is the ideal ratio for the three ingredients. Pumice is added to the mixture to help it retain moisture and nutrients. A good beginning mix will do for the majority of succulents; a particular potting mix for succulents is not required.