How to grow succulents? A complete guide to succulent care methods

1. Soil

Succulents do best in soil that drains and aerates well, is dry, and is sterile and free of pests. For beginners, mixing perlite and coconut coir (1:2) is recommended to make the growing medium, which suits the growth needs of most succulents. For the dry climate of the north, the soil's moisture-retaining performance needs to be increased; for the humid and rainy weather of the south, the soil's drainage performance needs to be improved.

2. Light

Succulents need plenty of light to grow; too little light or a dark environment will cause leggy growth. When growing succulents indoors, it is best to place them at a sunny window or on a balcony. When summer temperatures are too high, you can use a shade net with 70% shading rate and avoid exposure to sunlight from 12-15 o'clock; in the other seasons they can receive full sun.

3. Water

The principle for watering succulents is to water sparingly but thoroughly, avoiding root rot and black rot caused by water accumulating in the pot; too much water is also bad for the succulents' shape and causes leggy growth. Spring and autumn are the growing seasons for succulents, and when the lower leaves start to shrivel is the best time to water; summer is the dormant season for succulents, so misting is the main watering method, keeping the soil surface moist is enough; in winter the frequency of watering should be reduced.

4. Temperature

The place of origin of succulents is South Africa, and the most suitable growing temperature is between 12~28 degrees Celsius, so spring and autumn are the seasons when succulents grow most vigorously. When growing succulents at home, make sure the winter room temperature is above 8 degrees Celsius and the summer room temperature is below 35 degrees Celsius, and pay attention to ventilation and cooling.

5. Fertilizer

Succulents depend very little on fertilizer, but moderate fertilizing has a very good promoting effect on their healthy growth. Fertilizing succulents follows the principle of applying light fertilizer frequently; repotting in spring and autumn is the best time to fertilize; during the dormant period, fertilizing must be stopped to avoid root rot.

6. Summary

The most important aspects of growing succulents are maintaining sufficient light, watering moderately, and, for those growing them at home, making sure the room temperature is neither too low nor too high, and using a growing medium that drains and aerates well.