How to take care of your succulents - Mimi Vert

How to take care of your succulents - Mimi Vert

How to take care of your succulents - Mimi Vert

Succulents are a true treasure for both beginners and experienced gardeners. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they're also easy to care for. Whether you're a plant enthusiast or simply looking for a decorative and resilient plant, succulents are an excellent choice. In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know to care for your succulents.

What is a succulent?

Succulents are plants that have the ability to store water in their leaves, stems, or roots. They belong to various families, including Crassulaceae , Aizoaceae , and Cactaceae . Thanks to this ability to retain moisture, they are perfectly adapted to dry and hot environments, such as deserts.

Choosing the right location

Succulents need plenty of light to thrive. Choose a sunny spot, ideally near a south- or southwest-facing window. They prefer indirect light, as prolonged direct sunlight can cause leaf burn.

If you are growing them indoors, make sure they get at least 4 to 6 hours of light per day.

Helpful Tip : If you notice your plant's leaves becoming pale or etiolated (long and weak), this may be a sign that it is lacking light.

Watering: The Key to Succulent Survival

One of the most important aspects of succulent care is watering. Unlike other plants, they don't need to be watered frequently. On the contrary, overwatering can lead to root rot.

How to water your succulents properly?

• Let the soil dry : Wait until the soil is completely dry before watering. Generally, this means watering once a week in summer and less frequently in winter, when growth is slower.
• Deep watering : When watering, pour water directly into the soil, avoiding wetting the leaves. Make sure water drains through the pot's drainage holes.
• Avoid water saucers : If water remains in the saucer under the pot, it can cause rot. Make sure excess water drains properly.

Helpful tip : When in doubt, it's always better to underwater than overwater. Succulents prefer dry soil to consistently moist soil.

Suitable soil type

The ideal soil for succulents should be well-draining. Rich, heavy soils retain too much moisture, which can cause root rot. Therefore, it's best to use a special potting mix for cacti and succulents, which usually contains sand or perlite to improve drainage.

If you are creating your own blend, opt for:

• 1/3 garden soil
• 1/3 sand or perlite
• 1/3 light potting soil

Temperature and humidity

Succulents prefer warm, dry temperatures. They thrive between 18 and 24°C (65-75°F) during the day, with slightly cooler temperatures at night. In winter, they can tolerate cooler temperatures, but avoid exposing them to temperatures below 5°C (41°F).

As for humidity, succulents thrive in dry environments. If you live in a very humid area, make sure your plant is well ventilated.

Fertilization

Succulents do not require frequent fertilization. However, a little extra food can encourage better growth, especially during the active growing season (spring and summer).

Use a diluted liquid fertilizer specifically designed for cacti and succulents about once a month. Do not fertilize in the fall and winter, as succulents go dormant during this time.

Repotting succulents

Succulents don't often require repotting, but it's recommended to repot them every 2 to 3 years, or when they outgrow their pot. This helps renew the soil and ensure healthy growth.

When repotting:

• Choose a pot slightly larger than the previous one.
• Use well-draining soil.
• Make sure the base of the plant is not buried too deeply.

Common Problems and Solutions

Soft or discolored leaves : This may be due to overwatering. If this happens, allow the plant to dry out and do not water it until the soil is completely dry.

Yellow or drooping leaves : This may be a sign of a lack of light. Move the plant to a brighter location.

Cuts or spots on leaves : This can be caused by direct sunlight. Be sure to protect your plants from direct sunlight in summer.

Propagating succulents

Most succulents are easy to propagate by cuttings. You can cut a leaf or stem, let it dry for a few days to prevent rot, then plant it in well-drained soil. After a few weeks, roots will form and a new plant will grow.

Succulents are among the easiest to care for, thanks to their drought resistance and adaptability. By following these simple but effective tips, you can enjoy their beauty for many years to come. Remember that they need light, moderate watering, well-drained soil, and a warm, dry environment to thrive.

Caring for succulents is a pleasure, and with a little patience and attention, they will be a beautiful addition to your space!