How to Care for Succulents

Choose a succulent that is good for indoor growing. Some great choices are Jade plants, Aloe Vera and Snake Plant succulents, though there are many other varieties that are good for growing indoors. Most succulents thrive in direct sunlight, but others are better suited for shade. Be sure to read the label of the succulent you purchase to ensure that you’re placing it in the right climate and sun level. As a general rule, the greener the leaves are (more chlorophyll), the easier it is to grow.

Succulents have shallow roots and require good drainage in order to thrive. Choose a pot with drainage holes to allow water to escape so your roots don’t become mouldy. Non-glazed pots are great for pulling moisture away from the roots of the succulent. Also, choose a potting mix that is made specifically for succulents. This will create a healthy growing environment and allow your plant to flourish.

While your succulents need drainage to stay healthy, they also need space to grow and breathe. Part of taking care of succulents is ensuring they have fresh air and ventilation, so crowded, moist atmospheres are not the best places for them. Consider spacing them apart and in open containers or terrariums for optimal air circulation.

Most succulents thrive in direct sunlight, but others are better suited for shade. Sun-loving succulents should get about six hours of direct sunlight per day, while shade dwellers do better with the same amount of sun time, but with a curtain drawn over the window to protect them from direct light. South-facing windows get the most sun, so consider placing your succulents there for optimal lighting. Most succulents require less sunlight in the winter, so you won’t need to expose them to as much sunlight during those months. You should also maintain a temperature of about 21-26 degrees Celsius (70-80 degrees Fahrenheit) in summer months and 10-15 degrees Celsius (50-60 degrees Fahrenheit) in the winter months for optimal succulent care.

Overwatering succulents can result in root rot and mould, which could end up killing them. You should only water your succulent when it needs it. To find out if your succulent needs water, stick your finger in the soil and test the first inch or so for dryness. If the soil is dry, your plant needs water. If it’s moist, you can wait and test again in a few days. When you do need to water it, pour the water directly into the soil – keeping the leaves dry – until it starts to drip out of the drainage holes, then stop so you don’t overwater. You can also place the planter on a plate full of water and let the soil soak it up through the drainage holes, until the surface of the soil is moist.

With your succulent healthy, watered and soaked in sunlight, you’re sure to keep it beautiful and thriving!