Succulent plants, with their unique shapes and easy maintenance, have become the green favorites of many households and offices. Many新手 succulent enthusiasts have discovered that although succulents are drought-resistant, they are extremely sensitive to cold. Do succulents really fear the cold? How can we help them safely survive the cold winter? This article will answer these questions for you one by one.
The truth about succulents' fear of the coldAccording to the research of botanists, succulent plants are indeed sensitive to the cold. This is because the leaves of succulent plants contain a lot of water, and water easily freezes at low temperatures, leading to cell damage. The root systems of succulent plants are also relatively fragile. Low temperatures can reduce the soil's breathability, affecting the absorption function of the roots. In winter, special attention should be paid to keeping succulent plants warm.
Key points for succulent care in winter1. Choose a suitable location
In winter, succulent plants should be kept in a warm, sunlit indoor area, avoiding placement near windows, air conditioner outlets, or places with significant temperature changes.
2. Control the watering frequency
In winter, the temperature is low, and the growth rate of succulent plants slows down, reducing their water needs. The watering frequency should be reduced accordingly, keeping the soil slightly moist.
3. Increase lighting appropriately
Although the sun is weak in winter, succulent plants still need plenty of sunlight. You can increase the lighting time or place the succulent plants near a window to ensure their normal growth.
4. Maintain a suitable temperature
The optimal growth temperature for succulent plants is between 15-25°C. The indoor temperature in winter should be kept above 10°C to prevent the plants from freezing.
5. Avoid direct exposure to cold winds
In winter, the indoor and outdoor temperature difference is significant. Succulent plants should be kept away from areas with direct cold winds. Appropriate use of windbreaks or curtains can be used for protection.
Common mistakes in winter succulent care1. Overwatering
Some succulent enthusiasts believe that since succulent plants grow slowly in winter, they need more water. Overwatering can lead to root rot and even death of the plants.
2. Ignoring sunlight
Although the sunlight is weak in winter, succulent plants still need plenty of sunlight. Ignoring sunlight can lead to poor growth, thin leaves, and dull colors.
3. Too high temperature
Some people, in order to prevent succulent plants from freezing, set the indoor temperature too high. Excessively high temperatures can cause the plants to grow too quickly, consuming too much nutrients, which is not conducive to their safe wintering.
Although succulent plants fear the cold, as long as the correct care methods are mastered, they can safely survive the cold winter. I hope this article can be helpful to you and wish your succulent plants healthy growth!
References:[1] Zhang Lihua. Winter Maintenance Skills for Succulent Plants [J]. Plant Doctor, 2019(12): 36-37.
[2] Li Ming. Precautions for Winter Maintenance of Succulent Plants [J]. Home Gardening, 2018(5): 34-35.