In summer, the high temperatures and heavy rain make the growing environment for succulents particularly challenging, testing the patience and skill of the caregiver. With their unique shapes and vitality, succulents have become a favorite among many gardening enthusiasts. How to help succulents grow healthily in the scorching summer has become a pressing issue. This article will provide you with a detailed introduction on how to plant and care for succulents in the summer.
Choosing the Right Planting Environment1. Light: Succulents need plenty of sunlight, but the high temperatures in summer can damage their leaves with direct sunlight. It is recommended to place succulents in a partially shaded area, avoiding direct sun during midday.
2. Temperature: The optimal temperature range for succulent growth is 15-25°C. During the hot summer months, it is best to place succulents indoors in a well-ventilated and cool location.
Choosing the Right Planting Tools and Soil1. Planting Tools: Choose pots with good breathability, such as terracotta or purple clay pots. Avoid using materials like plastic or metal pots, as they can cause water to accumulate in the soil, leading to root rot.
2. Soil: Succulents prefer soil that is well-draining and has good aeration. You can use commercially available succulent-specific soil, or mix your own by combining peat moss, coarse sand, and perlite in certain proportions.
Planting Steps1. Watering: Before planting, remove the succulent from its original pot, shake off excess soil from the roots, and gently trim any rotten roots.
2. Filling Soil: Place the prepared soil into the planting container, filling it to about half the height of the succulent's roots.
3. Planting: Gently place the succulent into the soil, ensuring the roots are evenly distributed. Then, fill more soil up to the rim of the pot.
4. Watering: After planting, water gently and thoroughly to allow air to escape from the soil.
Summer Care Tips1. Watering: In the hot and rainy summer, succulents have a higher demand for water, but it is important to control the frequency of watering to avoid waterlogging and root rot. Generally, watering once a week is sufficient.
2. Ventilation: Maintaining good ventilation in the planting area helps to lower the temperature and reduce the occurrence of pests and diseases.
3. Fertilizing: With the high temperatures in summer, succulents grow faster and can be fertilized with appropriate amounts of fertilizer, such as liquid or slow-release fertilizers.
Pest and Disease Control1. Pests: In summer, succulents are susceptible to pests like aphids and spider mites. You can use insecticides for control, but be careful with your choice to avoid harming the succulents.
2. Diseases: Succulents can be troubled by diseases such as root rot and leaf spots. Maintain good ventilation, water appropriately, and inspect the plants regularly to identify and address any issues promptly.
Caring for succulents in the summer requires certain skills. By choosing the right planting environment, tools, and soil, and using scientific care methods, you can ensure your succulents grow healthily even in the summer heat. We hope this article can be of some help on your succulent care journey.