How to care for succulents
Succulent plants, with their adorable appearance and easy-to-care-for nature, have become essential green pets on the desks of city dwellers. However, to keep these 'chubby' little cuties healthy, it is necessary to master basic care knowledge and planting techniques.
Key Points for Daily Care of Succulents
Light Control and Placement
Most species, such as Crassula and Echeveria, need 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily, with a south-facing windowsill or open balcony being ideal. Species like Sempervivum and Haworthia require placement in a scattered light environment, and a shading net can be used to filter strong light. Regularly rotating the pot can prevent the plant from growing斜.
Temperature Regulation in Critical Periods
In spring and autumn, 15-25°C is the golden growth period. In summer, when temperatures exceed 35°C, ventilation needs to be enhanced. In winter, keeping the temperature above 5°C can prevent frost damage. A day-night temperature difference of 8-10°C can easily trigger the accumulation of sugars to form a jelly-like state.
Scientific Watering Method
Follow the 'dry-wet' principle, and water when a bamboo stick inserted 2cm into the soil has no moisture. Clay pots evaporate 30% slower than plastic pots, so the watering interval should be extended accordingly. In the winter dormancy period, watering once a month is sufficient.
Fertilizer Ratio Plan
Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium once a month during the growing season. Ogreen A2 or Melost Ma succulent special fertilizer shows significant results. After fertilizing, water thoroughly the next day to prevent root burn. Stop fertilizing during high summer temperatures and low winter temperatures.
Complete Process of Propagating Succulents
Leaf Propagation Steps in Detail
Select healthy and full leaves from the middle and lower layers, gently shake them off completely. After drying for 3 days, place them flat on a substrate of vermiculite and peat soil (1:3), maintaining 50% air humidity. Under 15-25°C conditions, they will root in about 20 days. Transplant when the roots reach 1cm, with a success rate of up to 80%.
Advanced Techniques for Division Propagation
For clustering varieties like Guanyinlian and Zichi Lianhua, separate the side buds in spring and autumn. Leave a 2cm stem segment to dry the wound, then soak in carbendazim before planting. Avoid watering within 3 days after division, and normal care can be resumed when new roots have grown.
Mastering these core points allows even beginners to easily create a colorful succulent garden. From basic care to advanced propagation, each step requires patient observation and timely adjustments, which is the unique joy of cultivating succulent plants.