17 Secrets Every Succulent Owner Wishes They Knew (But Won’t Tell You)
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Succulents are living pieces of art that bring a touch of the desert into your home. With over $7 billion in annual sales in the houseplant market, whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a hopeful beginner, succulents will give your home the best look.
But caring for these hardy plants isn’t as effortless as it seems. Beneath their low-maintenance reputation lies lots of secrets that seasoned, succulent owners swear by but rarely share. These 17 must-know tips will transform you into a succulent pro—and might just save your plants from becoming another wilted regret.
Overwatering Is Their Mortal Enemy
These drought-tolerant plants thrive with less water, not more. The number one reason succulents die is overwatering.
Water them every two to three weeks when the soil is completely dry.
Not All Succulents Need the Same Care
Succulents are not one size fits all. For example, aloe vera thrives on bright, indirect sunlight, while jade plants handle sunny windowsills like pros.
Research your specific plant’s needs to avoid accidental succulent sabotage.
Terracotta Pots Are Their Bffs
Plastic planters might be cute, but terracotta pots are functional lifesavers. , reducing the risk of root rot. According to plant care studies, roots in terracotta maintain healthier moisture levels.
They allow excess moisture to evaporate, hence no cause for alarm.
Beware of Inadequate Drainage
A pot without drainage holes can trap water at the bottom, leaving your succulent roots swimming; they’re terrible swimmers. Add a layer of rocks at the bottom to help water escape.
Direct Sunlight Isn’t Always Their Friend
Don’t freak out if your succulent isn’t showing visible growth after a month. Focus more on survival than racing to the finish line. Relax; they’re putting in work to stay fabulous!
They Grow Slower Than Your Morning Coffee
Don’t freak out if your succulent isn’t showing visible growth after a month. Focus more on survival than racing to the finish line. Relax; they’re putting in work to stay fabulous!
Wrinkly Leaves = Emergency Signal
Wrinkled leaves are an emergency signal. If they’re wilted, your plant may be seriously dehydrated. Instead, thoroughly soak it and wait until it perks back up.
Propagate, Don’t Procrastinate
Why buy more plants when you can grow them yourself? Most succulents propagate quickly. Snip a healthy leaf, leave it to dry for a few days, and place it on the soil.
They Clean Your Air Too!
ASA’s Clean Air Study found that plants, including succulents, help remove toxins like formaldehyde from their environment. A stylish plant and a natural air purifier
Winter Is Their Hibernation Season
In colder months, succulents enter a dormant phase, which means lower maintenance. Cut down on watering during winter since they need much less, and overwatering can easily lead to root rot.
Not All Succulents Are Pet-Safe
Home succulents, like jade, aloe vera, and euphorbia, are toxic to pets. Keep them secured out of chomping range, or opt for pet-safe succulents.
They’re Picky About Fertilizer
Succulents enjoy a nutritional boost occasionally but do just what is necessary! Overfertilizing can harm succulents rather than benefit them.
More than 50% of nutrient deficiencies in succulents are caused by excessive fertilizer application. Stick to a low-nitrogen fertilizer once a month during their growing season.
Succulents Are a Life Hack for Procrastinators
You went on vacation, forgot your plants, came home 10 days later, and they survived. Succulents thrive on neglect. For busy people, they’re the perfect, set it and forget it.
They Hate Cold Drafts
To keep your succulents happy and thriving, placing them away from air vents and drafty areas is essential. Research indicates that temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can lead to cellular damage and impaired growth in succulent plants.
Ensure they are in a warm, stable environment where they can soak up the sunlight they need to flourish.
Use the “Soak and Dry” Watering Method
Don’t drizzle water like olive oil on your salad. Instead, commit to the soak-and-dry method: Water deeply so that it seeps out the drain holes, and then wait until the soil dries before watering again.
Dust on Leaves Blocks Sunlight
Grab a soft brush once a month to remove dust from the succulent so they can absorb sunlight better gently.
They’re Not Hard, but They’re Not Foolproof Either
Yes, succulents are low maintenance, but they’re not indestructible. Even the least experienced plant parent can thrive with proper care with these beauties.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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