How To Take Care Of Succulents And Not Kill Them
Succulents can be tricky to take care of, especially when you don’t have the luxury of a garden. But sometimes we all just need a little more greenery in our lives which is why I’m going to give you the right information to make sure they live long and healthy like you. Here is how to take care of succulents if you are thinking of purchasing one.
Tip 1:
Winter is coming around and if you’re living in a place that gets cold, you need to make a reminder to bring them inside before it starts snowing. Succulents need a period of cold in order to bloom better but not too cold since most stay dormant in the winter anyways.
Tip 2:
Hard succulents may be dull and have some dry edges, especially if they’re bought in early spring because they’re still dormant. Don’t worry, they’re not dead and have beautiful potential. Plant them outside if you can over the summer but if not possible, make sure they get at least 6 hours of sunlight indoors. Keeping them by the window is a great idea, but make sure it’s not one facing the south- that’ll get too hot for the plant especially in the afternoons and could potentially burn it.
Tip 3:
Make sure to remove the succulents from their pots and plant making sure the soil level remains the same depth on the plant. Once that’s done, succulents benefit from a layer of pebbles or sea gravel on top of the soil around it – this makes sure the temperature stays somewhat balanced. BONUS- It’s also your chance to get creative and decorative.
Tip 4:
The number one reason succulents die in your care- too little or too much water. This is the tricky part. Most people have a misconception that succulents don’t need much water. This is true, but only in the winter when they’re dormant. Throughout the rest of the year though, you need to be giving your succulents enough water until the soil gets completely wet. Then, let it dry out completely before you water again. The time varies depending on the succulent but don’t water it daily and don’t use a spray bottle!
Tip 5:
Succulents need good draining soil. If you’re planting in a garden, make sure the area drains well and is not in a low spot that would stay wet. Puddles are not going to be your succulent’s friend! For container planting, you should purchase cactus soil or incorporate sand, gravel or volcanic rock for better drainage. And of course, your container needs to have a drainage hole. Air flow is important for the soil to dry so it can have just the right amount of watering!
