Should we remove the withered leaves of succulents in summer?
Let me introduce some knowledge about succulents. Should we remove the withered leaves of succulents in summer? Let's take a look together!
Summer is a challenging period for many succulents, as they are most prone to withered leaves and black rot. Some gardening enthusiasts ask whether we should remove the withered leaves of succulents in summer. If it's a result of normal metabolism, there's no need to remove them; just leave them on the plant. They will fall off by themselves later. If we remove them manually, it may damage the roots and provide an entry point for pathogens.
Why do succulents have withered leaves in summer? This is because the high temperatures cause the succulents to consume more (respiration) which in turn consumes the organic matter in the plant. Due to the unique crassulacean acid metabolism of succulents, photosynthesis is weak in high summer temperatures. As a result, it's easy for the leaves to become thin and for withered leaves to increase.
Simplistically, this is a normal situation, and there's no need to worry.
If the withered leaves are caused by diseases, they should be removed. However, usually, diseases don't cause withered leaves but rather cause the leaves to rot, such as black rot. It doesn't wait for the leaves to wither and dry before spreading to other healthy branches and leaves.
Some succulents even become attractive with withered leaves, such as mountain roses, which show outer leaves wilting during their dormant period. In this case, you must not remove the withered leaves.
The above [] introduces whether to remove the withered leaves of succulents in summer. I hope it can be helpful to you. Don't forget to check out more gardening experience and knowledge!