Dear plant lover, have you recently added a new member to your family—the Desert Rose? This is a succulent plant that is stunningly beautiful, with a bottle-shaped caudex and gorgeous flowers that are simply irresistible. However, raising it well is not an easy task and requires your care and attention! Today, I'm here to give you some tips to help your Desert Rose grow chubby and bloom like a little sun!
I. Light: The "Little Sun" in the Sunlight
The Desert Rose is a true sun lover; it loves to bask in the sun, just like you did when you were a kid. Therefore, you need to place it in a sunny spot, preferably one with direct sunlight. However, in the summer, the sun can be too intense, so you'll need to provide some shade to prevent sunburn.
II. Watering: Water when dry, don't let the "chubby one" get thirsty
Although the Desert Rose is drought-tolerant, it shouldn't be left thirsty. Watering should follow the "water when dry" principle, which means you should water thoroughly only after the soil has completely dried out. Don't let water accumulate in the soil, as it can easily lead to root rot. In the summer, you can increase the watering frequency slightly, but in the winter, you should reduce it.
III. Soil: Well-aerated and well-draining, let the "chubby one" breathe
The caudex of the Desert Rose doesn't like being suffocated in soil, so the soil needs to be well-aerated and well-draining. You can mix peat soil, sand, and perlite in a 2:1:1 ratio. This will ensure good aeration and drainage for the soil.
IV. Fertilizing: Fertilize moderately to help the "chubby one" grow strongerDuring the growing season, the Desert Rose needs moderate fertilization. Applying a diluted liquid fertilizer once a month is sufficient. You can stop fertilizing temporarily during the summer and winter.
V. Pruning: Maintain its beauty and shapeThe Desert Rose's branches grow very quickly, so it's important to prune them in a timely manner to remove dead branches and encourage new growth. When pruning, you can follow your own preferences to keep it in a beautiful shape.
VI. Propagation: Sow or cuttings to expand the "chubby one" familyDesert Rose can be propagated by sowing or cuttings. For sowing, spring is a good time. For cuttings, you can take semi-lignified branches in early spring.
VII. Pest and Disease Control: Detect and treat promptlyDesert Rose might encounter diseases such as root rot and leaf spot, as well as pests like spider mites and aphids. Once pests or diseases are found, it's important to use appropriate chemicals for control in a timely manner.
VIII. Repotting and Soil Change: Give the "chubby one" a new home every one to two years
Every one to two years, you can repot your Desert Rose with new soil, which is beneficial for its growth.
IX. Use Breathable Pots: Let the "chubby one" breathe smoothlyChoose ceramic or plastic pots with good breathability. This will allow the roots of the Desert Rose to breathe easily and grow healthier.
Actually, raising a Desert Rose isn't that difficult. As long as you put your heart into it, it will surely bring you endless surprises. I hope these little tips can help you, so that your Desert Rose grows chubby and blooms like a little sun! Keep it up!