What are the precautions for succulent care in summer?

Text

Images：Aha

Summer in southern China begins in May with the Start of Summer, which means the ordeal for succulents begins. From the fluctuating Start of Summer to the humid plum rain season and then to the hot, stuffy midsummer heat, the precautions change accordingly with each period. The following are methods for getting through summer indoors, aimed at ordinary succulent growers.

Here I first divide the summer period into three stages:

1. Start of Summer

This year, May marks the entry into summer. Although the Start of Summer period has already passed, we should still talk about it. The weather now fluctuates, with frequent alternation between showers and blazing sun. Growers with less-than-ideal conditions should give up outdoor growing at this point and move their plants to the balcony.

If the temperature under direct sunlight has already exceeded 35 degrees, and then a pot gets drenched by rain followed by more sun, it is very dangerous. Considering that most succulent growers are office workers and cannot tend to their plants in time, it is recommended to move the succulents to the balcony. Of course, growers with rain shelters and shade netting can still let their plants enjoy the outdoor sunlight.

After moving them to the balcony, you should begin gradually reducing watering, first to prevent leggy growth, and second to acclimatise them for the water control that follows.

Around early June, you can prepare to give your succulents their last watering. The specific timing depends on the weather. As the climate gradually becomes stuffy and humid (it is recommended to keep a hygrometer at home), also remember to add anti-mould medication, to prepare for the challenge of the plum rain season.

2. Plum Rain Season

During the plum rain season, with continuous rain, high temperatures and low air pressure, mould is most likely to breed. Your succulents have also reached a fragile semi-dormant period. Turn on grow lights if you have them, place the plants in a ventilated, dry spot, or get a small electric fan running at home.

Note: Because the air humidity is very high, do not water during this period; the moisture in the air is enough. Although your succulents may not look their best, what matters most is staying alive.

3. Midsummer Heat

After the plum rain season comes the midsummer heat. For southern China, although temperatures rise, the air does not improve much. The stuffy, humid environment is a disaster for succulents. Quickly find your succulents a bright yet cool place to settle in.

Use a fan during the day, and turn on the air conditioner at night if conditions allow, with grow lights continuing to help. At this time you can water a small amount, but it is best to choose a cool evening, and the water used is best mixed with a trace amount of sterilising medication, to serve as sterilisation and protection.

4. Late Summer

By late summer, the air is no longer so humid, and you can gradually increase water for your succulents, letting them slowly wake up. But do not water too much at once; the roots of succulents have shrivelled after the long summer, and too much water can easily suffocate them.

Finally, once the root function of your succulents has recovered, normal growing can resume in October.

This article was compiled by the Succulent Plant Boutique Gallery. Copyright belongs to the original author. For some articles the source cannot be identified and they are marked as from the internet. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately and we will handle it promptly.