Succulents are the most visually striking plants to have in your home or office. They come in all shapes and sizes, from tall and spiky to small, round and velvety. Succulents have modest requirements of care and space and are very easy to grow. Just give them a sunny position and water them occasionally to keep them happy.
Whether you have been gifted a succulent or you have bought yourself one, here is a care guide that will ensure that you keep your succulent in good health.
Get the soil mix right
It is important to get the right soil mix for succulents as you might end up stunting their growth or killing them. The best soil mix should have a combination of red soil, sand, compost, pumice or perlite. Pumice or perlite aids in aeration and drainage.
Choose containers with drainage holes
Too much watering harms and kills the succulent. Ensure that the succulent container has a hole to allow drainage. The leaves and roots start to wither if there is excess water collected in the pot.
Place near a window
Succulents do need their share of sunlight, even if it’s for a few hours from a window. They do not need full sun exposure, only a bit of sunlight everyday to grow. If you keep them under direct sunlight, they are more likely to perish than thrive.
Rotate plant around the house
Changing the amount of light, they get by rotating them to different spots around the house is a great way to ensure that you succulents thrive. Most succulents grow leaning towards to sun so if you do not rotate them, you might end up with a plant that is skewed to one side.
Water as per season
In the summers succulents need more water vis-à-vis winter months where the water requirement is minimal. The soil needs to be lightly moist at all times. Test the soil by inserting your finger. If it’s moist avoid watering and if not, water it modestly. Never flood your succulents with too much water, as you would be doing more harm than good. Always water the soil directly and avoid using sprays to water is it may mark the foliage with water stains.
Dust & clean
When succulents are dusty then their growth also becomes inhibited. Use a damp cloth or a paintbrush of wipe the leaves clean.
Add nutrients
Summer or spring is the best time to fertilize succulents, as it’s their growing season. Use succulent growth boosters that are easily available in gardening stores or online.
Succulents are drought lovers and have a special ability to retain water. They tend to thrive in warm, dry climates and don’t mind a little neglect. Their striking foliage will only enhance your décor.
