How to easily keep small succulents alive
Sharing knowledge on how to easily keep small succulents alive and techniques for beginners growing succulents. Next, the editor will introduce some information to netizens.
Spring is a good time for succulents to grow rapidly, but why do many flower enthusiasts' succulents remain half-dead, not growing or becoming more beautiful? If succulents are not well-cared for, it is mostly due to these "4 taboos." Correct them in time, transform weak seedlings into "fat dolls," and see if it applies to you!
Taboo 1: Using a large pot for small seedlings
When planting succulents, it is essential to use a small pot for small seedlings and a large pot for large seedlings. If small seedlings are planted in a large pot, there is a high chance of problems. This is because the root system of small succulent seedlings is weak and consists of fine roots. Using a large pot makes it hard for the soil to dry after watering, which can lead to an unthrifty root system or even root rot, resulting in stunted growth or the entire plant dying.
Using a small pot for small succulent seedlings allows the soil to dry quickly, and even if watered excessively, it is less likely to harm the roots. As they grow, they can be planted in larger pots. If small succulent seedlings must be planted in a large pot, a layer of drainage material like ceramsite should be placed at the bottom to raise the pot's depth, turning a large pot into a small one, which greatly increases the chances of the succulents thriving.
Taboo 2: Watering without pinching the leaves
Many flower enthusiasts water their succulents when the surface of the potting soil looks dry. However, often the surface is dry, but the middle and lower parts are still wet, leading to root rot from overwatering. Once the roots of succulents are rotted, they can become increasingly worse if not attended to, eventually causing the plant to wither. Therefore, when watering succulents, do not rely solely on the surface of the soil, as it can be deceptive and lead to overwatering.
How to easily keep small succulents alive
So how should you water succulents? It's simple: when the surface of the potting soil is dry, pinch the leaves in the middle and lower parts. If the surface is dry but the leaves in the middle and lower parts are plump and not soft, there is no need to water. If the surface is dry, and the leaves in the middle and lower parts are also soft, it's time to water. This method ensures that you won't water incorrectly.
Taboo 3: Not repotting
Older succulents should be repotted every two years, while young or medium-sized seedlings should be repotted annually, along with a change of soil. This is especially important for succulents planted in fine potting material, as they require more frequent repotting or soil changes. Over time, if the potting soil is not changed, it can become compacted, affecting the growth of the succulent's root system, making the soil impoverished and bacteria-prone, leading to problems with the succulents. Timely repotting and changing the soil provide a good growing environment, which helps them grow well.
The best time to repot succulents is in spring and autumn, when the temperature is between 10 and 28 degrees Celsius. At this time, they can recover from repotting in about half a month. If your succulents are having problems, such as severely soft leaves that do not improve with watering, regardless of the time, you should immediately remove them from the pot to check the roots, trim them if necessary, and repot without hesitation.