What to Do When the Leaves of Succulents Become Wrinkled and Soft
The leaves of succulent plants becoming wrinkled and soft are common early warning signs in the maintenance process. This phenomenon may involve multiple factors such as root health, water management, and environmental adaptation. This article summarizes the causes and corresponding solutions for leaf softness and wrinkling through 6 years of gardening experience.
I. Normal Metabolic Phenomenon
1.1 Natural Metabolism of Bottom Leaves
The gradual drying of the bottom leaves is a part of the normal metabolic process. Maintain 3-4 hours of scattered light per week and keep the ambient temperature between 15-25°C. Wait for them to fall off naturally. Pay attention to the condition of the new leaves. If the top new leaves are plump, no intervention is needed.
1.2 Handling the Acclimation Period After Repotting
If the leaves soften after purchasing a new succulent or repotting, it is recommended to keep the original potting soil dry for 3-5 days, gradually increase the duration of sunlight, and avoid fertilizing immediately. Using 70% particle soil can effectively improve the root's adaptability.
II. Scientific Watering Solutions
2.1 Progressive Watering Method
When drought causes the leaves to wrinkle, use the immersion method for watering: immerse the pot in a container with 2 cm of water and remove it immediately once the surface soil is moist. Perform the operation in the evening during summer and at noon during winter.
2.2 Controlling the Watering Cycle
Water every 10-15 days in spring and autumn, every 20-25 days in summer, and every 30 days in winter. Use the bamboo stake insertion method to test the moisture level. Water again when the bamboo stake is completely dry.
III. Root Repair Techniques
3.1 Process for Treating Rotting Roots
After removing the pot, retain 1/3 of the healthy main roots, soak them in a 1000 times solution of carbendazim for 20 minutes, then air-dry the roots for 3 days before repotting with vermiculite and perlite (1:1). Maintain an ambient humidity of 60%-70% during the repair period.
3.2 Key Points for Root Care
Avoid direct strong sunlight for the first 2 weeks after repair, and apply HB-101 plant vitality essence (1 drop/500ml) monthly to promote the growth of capillary roots. It is recommended to use red pottery pots to enhance breathability.
By observing the plumpness of the leaves, feeling the moisture of the soil, and checking the growth point status, combined with regular pot rotation, reasonable fertilization, and other measures, you can effectively prevent abnormal leaves. If more than 30% of the leaves become soft and wrinkled, it is recommended to immediately check the roots.