How to Care for Crassula to Make It Look Nice
Today's sharing: knowledge about how to care for Crassula to make it look nice and the cultivation methods of succulent Crassula. Let's follow the editor to see the specific content!
Crassula is a large genus in the Crassulaceae family, with nearly 200 recognized succulent plants belonging to this genus. They are native and distributed all over the world and may be one of the most popular succulent plants. In addition to the original varieties, there are many attractive varieties and hybrids.
In 1753, the famous Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus first officially described Crassula as a genus with ten species.
The common name "Crassula" for the plant comes from the Latin word "crassus," meaning "thick," referring to the fleshy leaves.
Members of the Crassula genus are mostly annual or perennial plants, with both herbaceous and woody types, and some have underground tubers. They vary in size and growth habits. These succulent plants have fleshy leaves that are interesting in shape and color, usually with lovely star-shaped flowers. Some species are monocarpic, dying after flowering.
Growth Conditions for Crassula
Crassula is one of the most popular succulent plants, suitable for indoor and outdoor planting.
1. Light
Crassula prefers full sun rather than shade. However, during the hottest part of the summer, strong afternoon sunlight can burn the leaves of the plant. Many Crassula plants turn red, purple, pink, orange, or yellow in long daylight hours in the summer, but even the reddest plants will turn green in dim light.
If there is sufficient light, most Crassula plants can be grown indoors. Place your Crassula next to a south-facing window where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
2. Soil
Crassula is not particularly picky about soil pH, but they need well-draining, porous soil. Most Crassula plants can grow well in sandy or even rocky soil. In their native habitats, Crassula plants usually grow in rock crevices.
3. Temperature
Crassula enjoys summer temperatures of 18 to 21 degrees Celsius. In winter, keep it around 10 degrees Celsius. Most Crassula can tolerate some frost, but extreme cold or heat can cause them to shed leaves and die. The biggest challenge outdoor plants face in winter is protection from temperatures below 32°F (0°C). Most varieties are suitable for outdoor planting in USDA hardiness zones 9a to 10b, 20 to 40°F (-6.7 to 4.4°C). However, in other places, you can bring potted plants indoors to overwinter.
Daily Care for Crassula
Crassula is an ideal succulent plant for beginners.
1. Watering
It is recommended to use the "soak method" for watering Crassula to avoid overwatering, where the soil is soaked with water, allowed to drain slowly, and watered again after it dries. Reduce watering in winter because if the soil remains moist for too long, your Crassula can rot. Increase watering during the growing season, as insufficient water can cause the lower leaves to fall off. In their native habitats, Crassula leaves shrink when absorbing stored water and become plump when it rains.
2. Fertilizing
Crassula does not require much fertilizer. In early spring, when they start to grow rapidly, organic fertilizers can be applied.
3. Repotting
If necessary, it is best to repot Crassula in spring, ensuring the soil is dry before starting to replant and gently removing the pot. Let your Crassula dry for about a week after repotting, then start watering to prevent root rot.
4. Pruning
Occasional pruning can keep Crassula healthy and compact. Don't be afraid to prune when the plant starts to look untidy. Pruning is best done in the spring or after flowering.
Jade Tree is a popular choice among bonsai enthusiasts. Many people starting with bonsai begin with the Jade Tree.
How to Propagate Crassula
Crassula is usually propagated from leaves or stem cuttings.
1. Leaf Propagation
The simplest method is to propagate Crassula with a single leaf. Choose a healthy leaf and gently twist it off the stem. Place it on well-draining soil and keep the soil slightly moist.
2. Stem Cuttings
The fastest propagation method for Crassula is stem cuttings. This method works best for branched plants. Choose a healthy stem and remove it from the main plant. Let it callus for a few days before placing it in a well-draining soil mixture. Water sparingly, keeping the soil moist before the cuttings root. Once rooted, you can treat it like a mature plant.
3. Seed Propagation
Using seeds to propagate Crassula is the slowest method. Sow in spring or summer. Germination is best at temperatures below 21°C. Do not cover these seeds with soil and avoid direct sunlight. They usually start to germinate within 1 to 3 weeks. When the seedlings have at least three leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
How to Care for Crassula to Make It Look Nice
Pests and Diseases of Crassula
1. Pests
Major pests include whiteflies, spider mites, and aphids. Fortunately, they are relatively easy to control.
2. Diseases
Crassula is also susceptible to bacterial soft rot, powdery mildew, and black ring disease. These diseases are easy to identify and can be treated once detected.
Toxicity of Crassula
Crassula is generally non-toxic to humans and slightly toxic to cats, dogs, and some other animals.
This article shares comprehensive knowledge on how to care for Crassula to make it look nice and the cultivation methods of succulent Crassula, hoping it can help you.