One of the questions we are often asked is :
Do succulents need daylight?
A simple answer is yes, however its how much that is important. And this is just one of 10 tips to keeping your succulents alive and happy
Ten Tips to Keeping Your Succulents alive and happy.
Succulents need a range of conditions, however a few general tips will keep most growing well and prevent problems.
- Make sure they are planted in a free draining soil or potting mix. This means that when you water them, the soil drains quickly. You can buy a specialist mix, or you can add perlite, crushed rock or other medium to improve the drainage. Choose the right Pot for your succulents.
- It is often thought that succulents love hot sun and lots of light. They do like light, however most do not like the extreme heat of direct sunlight.
Make sure they are not in a humid climate. Most succulents do not like humidity, they grow in warm dry climates. So give them good ventilation and airflow.
- When propagating succulents by cuttings, make sure you allow the cutting to callus over before planting.
Common Questions
- What is the meaning of Succulent ?
In terms of plants the word succulent refers to plants that have the ability to store water, some in their stems, others in their leaves. So the plant is ‘full of juice’. - Do succulents like sunlight or shade?
Many succulents do like sun, however the amount of sun differs between species.
Some like more sun than others. - Are any succulents native to Australia?
Australia does have some native succulents, notably Hoya australis, Portulaca cyclophylla, Calandrinia creethae, Carpobrotus rossii and Tecticornia verrucosa. - How often do succulents need to be watered ?
Watering frequency differs between species, generally a wet/dry cycle is best.
Holding back on water during the dormancy period is recommended for many succulents.
Growing medium as well as climate are also watering factors.
Bonus Tip
Avoid the temperature extremes indoors. Keep them away from cold drafts, and keep them away from heating ducts.
Get More colour by stressing your succulents, just like mother nature would