Succulents Care

Succulents Care: (guide to grow and take care of succulent plants, how to start gardening with succulents, choose from 1000 succulent plant species)

How To Care For String Of Pearl Plant?

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As people look to add more green into their lives, succulents and cacti are often a popular choice. These low maintenance plants are the perfect choice for beginners and experts alike. The string of pearls plant is a succulent that’s getting increasing attention due to its striking appearance and easy care requirements.

The string of pearls plant is fairly easy to care for. Its basic requirements include needing at least six hours of sun, water once per week, and the correct soil mixture to encourage drainage. Other requirements include a warm environment, mid-level humidity, and a hanging container.

It’s also a common choice because it can be housed indoors or outdoors, is easily propagated, and doesn’t have may pest problems. Let’s go over all of the information you’ll need to know before growing your own string of pearls.

String of Pearls Plant: Basic Care

The string of pearls plant (Curio rowleyanus, formerly Senecio rowleyanus) is one of the easier succulents to care for. Here’s a basic rundown of the care requirements:

SunlightAt least six hours; avoid direct sunlight/ full exposure
Temperature72 degrees Fahrenheit/ ~22 degrees Celsius
WaterSoak thoroughly once per week; let dry completely between waterings
HumidityPreferably around 40% – 50%
SoilSucculent-specific potting mix; must include sand, pumice, or perlite
ContainerAny type, hanging preferred; drainage strongly recommended
The String of Pearls produces small white or cream flowers in summer.

When properly taken care of, your string of pearls should look like small peas attached to trailing vines. It should be a lush green color and, during the summer, bloom small, white or cream flowers that may be brush-like in appearance.

Below, we’ll go into more detail about each requirement and what you’ll need to do to care for your plant.

Sunlight and Temperature Requirements

Like most succulents and cacti, the string of pearls appreciates ample light. For optimum growth, you’ll need to ensure your plant receives at least six full hours of light.

Keep in mind, the string of pearls prefers partial shade or indirect light. You can acclimate your plant to full exposure or direct sun, but doing so prematurely can scorch its stems and leaves.

This means that you can’t keep it inside for most of the year and just sit it out on your porch when it’s warm. If you want to transition it outside during the spring and summer, start by placing it in a shaded area and gradually expose it to direct light.

To grow a healthy String of Pearls, you should give the plant at least 6 hours of full sun daily.

If you’re worried that your string of pearls isn’t getting enough light, considering supplementing it with an artificial grow light. These are available online and in some retail stores and nurseries. Alternatively, you can just buy plant grow bulbs and screw them into a lamp you already have around the house.

Full spectrum LED lights are preferable, since these last longer and will not put off heat that could potentially harm a person or plant. Some models also offer automatic timers and Red-Green-Blue color level adjustments so that you can better control your plant’s growth.

You can also invest in a fluorescent light. But while these may be more powerful and effective initially (depending on the wattage), they’ll grow weaker over time and will need to be replaced more often than LEDs.

Depending on your needs, there is a wide variety of lights and bulbs available in varying wattage levels and sizes. There are also lights and bulbs for every budget, whether you’re looking to spend under $20 or want to shell out for a more professional setup.

Proper Temperature Requirements for String of Pearls

Besides the light itself, you’ll also need to keep an eye on the temperature. String of pearls prefers warm climates that are at least 72 degrees Fahrenheit (roughly 22 degrees Celsius).

This isn’t a problem indoors during the colder months (when you have the heat on) or outdoors during the warmer months (depending on the climate where you live). But when you have the A/C blasting inside or the temperatures start dipping outdoors, your succulent can suffer.

Since the String of Pearls prefers warmer environment, avoid placing the plant in areas that are too cold.

Make sure you’re housing your string of pearls in a mild, warmer area that won’t be affected by sudden or often temperature changes. Add a heating element near your plant, if necessary. 

Alternatively, if you can control the temperature of one room or area outside (such as a greenhouse), keep it around 70 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

If you house your plant inside, avoid placing it in drafty areas where it may be inadvertently affected by cool air.

Watering and Humidity Requirements

While succulents are renown for needing almost no water, the string of pearls plant takes this one step farther. Its round leaves (i.e., its ‘pearls’) reduce exposure to sun and result in slower evaporation, making it particularly drought tolerant even for a succulent.

As a result, you should be careful not to overwater this plant. If you give it too much water at once or water it too often, it won’t be able to thrive. Similarly, not providing drainage and forcing the roots to sit in waterlogged soil for extended periods of time will cause it to die.

It is recommended to water your String of Pearls once a week.

The best initial schedule is to thoroughly soak your string of pearls once per week. Wait until you see water coming from the drainage holes or, if your container has no drainage, water it until the first two inches of soil are soaked.

Then, before you water it one week later, check to see if the topsoil is dry. If it’s still damp, wait another week; if it’s completely dry, water it again according to the same method.

This will help you gauge how often you need to water your plant and how much water to give it each time.

Despite their arid origins, string of pearls also appreciate humidity. Typically, the average humidity in a home is fine. But if you have a dehumidifier in your home or live in a dry region, try to keep at least 40% humidity levels around your succulent.

You can increase humidity levels by placing a dish of water near the plant, grouping plants and succulents together, and misting around the plant (but not directly on or near the roots).

Soil, Potting, and Fertilization Requirements

String of pearl plants have fairly straightforward requirements when it comes to soil, potting, and fertilization. Though you have some wiggle room, here are the ideal conditions for your succulent:

  • Soil – A succulent-specific mix with regular potting mix and sand, pumice, or perlite
  • Potting – A hanging container with ample drainage; fill completely with soil
  • Fertilization – Light feedings during spring and summer

String pearl plants and succulents need soil that promotes aeration and drainage. This means that regular potting soil (and soil from your backyard) are a no-go.

Choose the right pot, soil mix, and fertilizer for your String of Pearls to ensure that the plant grows healthy.

Look for cactus and succulent-specific potting soil. This will have sand, pumice, or perlite mixed in. Alternatively, you can buy regular potting soil and manually mix at least one of these ingredients in.

When it comes to potting, containers with drainage are always preferable. Succulents need water, but they don’t like sitting in soaking wet soil. Without drainage, the excess water can’t escape and may cause root rot or mold.

Any pot with a drainage hole will work, but terra cotta pots are particularly great for beginners.

To prevent soil from washing away, you can add a layer of mesh between the drainage holes and the potting mix.

If you don’t have a container with drainage, be sure to watch how much you water your string of pearl plant. Test the top two inches of the soil to make sure they’re dry before watering again.

A common misconception is that you can add a layer of rocks or pebbles to the bottom of your container to trap excess water. This isn’t true; the soil will hold the water and continue to waterlog the roots instead of draining into the rock layer.

Instead of adding rocks, mix activated charcoal into the bottom inch of your potting soil. This will absorb any overflow.

It’s also better if your container offers the string of pearls room to grow. The nature of this plant means that vertical space is more important than shelf space or horizontal room. Hanging containers are a great way to make sure your string of pearls is able to stretch and trail comfortably.

Generally, succulents don’t need much fertilizer, and string pearl plants aren’t an exception. But to encourage growth, you can lightly fertilize during the spring and summer seasons.

Be careful not to overfertilize. Besides attracting pests like mealybugs, this can cause your succulent to grow too fast and become weak.

Outdoor vs. Indoor: Which Is Best for String of Pearls?

String of pearl plants can be kept indoors or outdoors. It’s native to southwest Africa and so can obviously grow outside, but has also been kept with great success as a houseplant. It can therefore be kept inside or outside (or a mixture of both).

However, there are advantages and disadvantages to both settings. These mainly revolve around the succulent’s care requirements, such as the light, temperature, and watering schedule.

Although the String of Pearls can grow both indoors and outdoors, there are some pros and cons you should consider.

Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of keeping string of pearls inside versus outside:

Indoor SpacesOutdoor Spaces
ProsTemperature controlled
Can track waterings
Easier to protect from pests		Easier to meet light requirements
Easier to meet temperature/ heat requirements (dependent on climate)
Benefit from pollinators
ConsHarder to meet light requirements
Harder to meet temperature/ heat requirements (dependent on climate)
Reduced chance for pollination		Subject to weather conditions
Potential for overwatering due to rain
Harder to protect from pests

Your home is a controlled space; you can control how much light your string of pearls receives, the temperature of the room it’s housed in, and how often and how much water it receives. Even if you don’t have many windows or don’t receive much natural sunlight, you can buy artificial lights help your plant thrive.

But many succulents appreciate the natural light and warm temperatures of the outdoors, though it can be harder to control how much water they get unless the plants are housed in a covered area. These ideal conditions, coupled with the presence of pollinators, also mean your string of pearls is more likely to bloom. 

Here are some other considerations to keep in mind when deciding whether to keep your string of pearls inside or outside:

  • Sun Exposure – Do you have a space where the plant will receive indirect sun or partial shade for at least six hours?
  • Room To Grow – Do you have a space where the plant’s stems will have room to grow and trail?
  • Protection – Do you have a space where the plant will be protected, such as from pets, children, wildlife, inclement weather, etc.?
  • Cold Weather – Do you have a space where the plant will be safe from cold temperatures, such as from winter weather or strong A/C flow?

You don’t necessarily have to have a yard to keep your succulents outside; a balcony, patio, and wide window ledge are just three examples of other options that still provide you with outside access.

But the deciding factor should always be what works best for you. If you don’t have access to an outdoor space, then keeping your succulent inside is the better option. Conversely, if you don’t get much light inside but have a nice outdoor space, then keeping your succulent outside is preferable.

Whether you keep your string of pearls indoors or out, remember to keep it out of reach of children and pets. When consumed, this succulent can be toxic— it’s better to be safe than sorry, so hanging planters or containers are strongly recommended.

How To Propagate String Of Pearls

String of pearls naturally grow one of two ways: vertically and horizontally. Vertically, you’ll see growth as the stems of your succulent grow and create longer trails.

But string of pearls is naturally a creeper, which is how it grows horizontally as well. Its stems spread across the ground and send out shoots, which create ground cover and a more expansive root system. Once established, these shoots create their own stems and tendrils, which produce more leaves and shoots, and so on and so forth.

If you provide a wide enough container or plant your succulent directly in the ground, you may see this natural growth when the string of pearls is established enough.

But if you want to directly propagate it yourself, there’s a different method:

  • Cut – Cut off roughly two inches from one of the trailing stems. The stem should be green and have no visible damage (such as withered or brown areas). Cut between the leaves (‘pearls’).
  • Plant – Plant in a container with good drainage filled with a succulent-specific potting mix. Insert part of the cutting into the soil (after removing the leaves) or coil the cutting and lay it on top of the soil, pressing it gently to establish contact.
  • Water – Moisten the soil during the initial planting and mist it every 3 – 4 days after that. Monitor the ends of the cutting to make sure you’re not underwatering (which will cause shriveling) or overwatering (which will cause brown spots and rot).
  • Rest – It can take weeks or even months for a cutting to take root and start growing in earnest. During this time, keep your cutting in a bright, warm place. Make sure it doesn’t receive too much direct light.  

Only propagate during spring or summer when your string of pearls is strong and healthy and make sure your tool is sharp— using a dull instrument can damage both the cutting and the parent plant.

Cut, plant, water, and rest your String of Pearls to properly propagate the plant.

Before your string of pearls will spread naturally or thrive enough for you to manually propagate it, it will first need to become established.

Following the care requirements laid out in this article is a great start. The right soil and container will provide a strong foundation for growth, while receiving the correct amount of sun and water (and fertilizer during the warm months) will encourage growth.

You can also help your succulent grow through regular pruning. Though this may seem contradictory (cutting parts off seems like the opposite of growth), pruning actually creates a healthier plant. It prevents the string of pearls from diverting resources, such as water, to areas that are already dying off.

Take a pair of sharp scissors or shears and trim dying pieces. Stems and leaves that are brown, shriveled, or simply not growing should all be removed promptly.

Common Care Issues with String of Pearls Plants

If your string of pearl plant isn’t doing so well, don’t be discouraged! Many people find that succulents are pickier in terms of care than they originally thought. But with a few simple fixes, your string plant will bounce back in no time.

Choosing the wrong container size is one of the most common mistakes people make when caring for the String of Pearls.

Here are some common care issues that owners should look out for if they have a string of pearls plant: 

  • Gnats and Pests – These are more common for indoor plants, but can affect all succulents. To get rid of these, treat with an anti-pest spray or 70% isopropyl alcohol solution. Going forward, make sure not to overwater or overfertilize.
  • Container Size – A container that’s too large will hold water and cause the succulent’s roots to rot. Because string of pearls have narrow, delicate stems, they are especially prone to this issue.
  • Planting Depth – String of pearls have shallow root systems that spread out rather than down. Planting your succulent more than an inch into the soil will prevent aeration and cause it to hold too much water (which causes fungal growth and rot, respectively).
  • Overwatering – This plant stores water in its leaves (‘pearls’) instead of stems. So if you overwater it, the pearls will literally swell and burst. If they have a shriveled and mushy appearance, cut back on the water.

If you’re lucky, you’ll never have any of these issues. But if one does appear, it’s nothing to worry about. You can easily solve the issue by trying out the solutions above.

General Care Tips for Succulents and Cacti

For the most part, succulents and cacti are some of the easiest plants to keep (that’s what makes them so popular, after all). But like any other living thing, they do have some basic care requirements that need to be met.

Just like other succulents, the String of Pearls requires plenty of light, proper watering regime, and regular cleaning.

If you’re still struggling with your string of pearls plant, here are some tips and tricks that might help you revive it:

  • Provide Plenty of Light… – It might seem like a no brainer, but succulents need lots of light. And even when we think they’re getting that, they might not be. String of pearls need at least six full hours of sunlight.
  • …But Not Too Much Light – Even though your string of pearls needs light, be careful about the type of light you provide. Directly sunlight or full sun exposure can scorch them and be more harmful than helpful. May sure to provide at least partial shade.
  • Rotate At Least Weekly – You should also rotate your plant at least once per week to make sure it’s getting even light all around. If your string of pearls is only growing on one side, that’s a sign it’s not getting enough sunlight.
  • Adjust Water Per Season – Adjust how often and how much you water your plant according to the season. Water more during the spring and summer, but less during the fall and winter. And, of course, wait for the soil to dry between waterings.
  • Adjust Water For Pots – If your string of pearls is potted in a container with drainage, soak the soil until you see water emerge. But if there’s no drainage, water the soil less. Don’t ever mist your plant instead of watering; this causes weak roots and mold.
  • Clean Leaves and Stems – Plants housed indoors will inevitably gather dust, just like plants outside may pick up pollen. Make sure to regularly and gently clean your string of pearls with a damp cloth or soft-bristle brush, such as a makeup brush or paintbrush.

Just like air plants, succulents are often misrepresented as needing next to no care— a sort of ‘buy them and forget about them’ type of plant. But in reality, they have some basic requirements that will need to be met before they can really thrive.

Varieties of String Succulents

Though string of pearl plants are one of the most popular string succulents, they’re by no means the only variety available. String plants share the same basic features, but can vary in appearance and care requirements depending on which type you have.

If your string of pearl plant doesn’t look like what we’ve described, check out these other varieties to see if you have a different string succulent. Alternatively, keep reading if you’re interested in other string varieties in addition to your string of pearls.

Here are five other popular string succulents:

  • String of Buttons/ Necklace Vine (Crassula perforata) – This string plant grows vertically and features triangular, grey-green leaves with red edging. During the spring, it blooms star-shaped white or pale yellow flowers.
  • String of Bananas/ String of Fishhooks (Curio radicans) – Like the string of pearls, this plant grows vines. But instead of peas, it features glossy, banana-shaped leaves. During late winter or early spring, it blooms white flowers that smell like cinnamon.
  • String of Hearts/ Rosary Vine (Ceropegia linearis/ woodii) – The trailing stems of this plant feature small, heart-shaped leaves that are either dark green or light green/ grey, depending on how much light it gets. Flowers appear in late summer or early fall.
  • String of Tears (Curio citriformis) – This slow-growing succulent features trailing but erect stems with tear-drop shaped leaves. Leaves are green with transparent stripes and flowers are a cream or yellow color that appear in late summer or winter.
  • String of Turtles (Peperomia prostrata) – Also slow-growing, this plant has hanging stems with delicate, rounded leaves. Leaves are dark green or purple with white veining, resembling that of a turtle shell. Flowers are small and cream-colored.

These string succulents are all beautiful statements plants that are comparatively easy to grow and propagate. Whether you’re building a vertical garden or designing a hanging display, any one (or more) of these varieties would made a wonderful choice.

String of buttons, string of bananas, and string of hearts are all hardy and make great choices for any beginners or recovering black thumbs.

Growing A Healthy (And Happy) String of Pearls Plant

As succulents and cacti grow more popular for both beginner gardeners and advanced growers alike, the string of pearls plant has received an increasing amount of attention— and for good reason.

String of pearls are hardy, easy to grow, and aesthetically striking. As long as they receive roughly six hours of light per day and are watered once per week (or as needed), they’ll thrive. 

The String of Pearls can grow perfectly healthy if you properly plant and take care of the plant.

Planting them in the correct container, keeping them in a warm place, and maintaining humidity levels will also ensure your succulent thrives. They’re also versatile in terms of where you can keep them and aren’t prone to pest issues.

Whether you’re looking to gift a burgeoning gardener with a new plant or want to add some green to your own living space, the string of pearls plant is a succulent that fits in every home.

How To Choose The Right Pot For Your Succulents?

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Collecting succulents has become a popular pastime but, how do you choose the right pot for your succulents? With a few considerations, such as lighting, sizing, and drainage, there are endless possibilities to explore the perfect home for your succulents where they can thrive happily and healthily.  

Continue reading below to gather the facts before beginning your fairy garden. Not all pots are made the same and you want to avoid choosing a pot solely because it looks cute. Making an informed decision when choosing the right pot for your baby greens will save you time and money in the long run.

Measure What Size Pot You Need For Your Succulent

First off, making certain you find the right size home for your succulent is essential to providing the highest quality of life. It is vital to provide the plant with adequate room to grow. For reference, if your plant is 5 inches in diameter, aim for a pot of 5.5”.

Choosing the right width and depth of a pot ensures the succulents get proper nourishment. A pot that is too large can retain an abundance of moisture which will cause the succulent to rot. While a pot that is too small can hinder the healthy growth of the roots.

Pot Sizing for Clusters Of Succulents

If you are potting a cluster of succulents, there are a few things to keep in mind.

  • Make sure each green has ample room to grow properly
  • Keep an eye out to ensure each plant gets enough lighting
  • If any of the succulents seem crowded, be prepared to re-pot them as soon as possible
If you have decided to plant a cluster of succulents, pick a pot that is large enough to fit the plants.

Planting multiple succulents in one container can be tricky, so if you do decide to go this route, make sure you choose a pot large enough for the buds to grow into. 

Drainage and Airflow Are Important When Choosing A Pot

Although succulents are regarded as nearly effortless, they do have basic survival needs. 

Proper Drainage Is Essential

Succulents retain more water in their leaves and stems than other plants. Because of this, they require proper drainage from their pots. It allows the soil to dry faster, preventing the rotting of the roots. 

Pots that offer proper drainage will protect your succulents from root rot.

Adequate Airflow Is Necessary 

Plants need airflow to breathe and make food. Succulents are no exception to this rule. Choosing a pot that provides generous airflow will lead to overall healthier succulents. 

Make sure to keep these necessities in the back of your mind while choosing the right pot for your succulents. 

Pros and Cons Of Popular Pots

There is an abundance of readily available pots to choose from for your succulents. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages. 

Clay Pots Are Ideal Material

Clay pots, like ceramic or terracotta pots, are a great option for succulents, particularly in more tropical climates. They are very porous which helps in avoiding rotting roots. The material soaks up some moisture from the soil, and are great for indoor or outdoor succulents. 

Clay pots are common enough where you can find them quite affordably at a local home and garden store.

The downside to clay pots is, they may not be as aesthetically pleasing as some of the inspirational arrangements you find online and are typically a neutral orange-ish color. Keep in mind that they are also fragile and typically have only one or two drainage holes.

You can find more attractively colored clay pots that have been glazed over. If you go that route, keep in mind that the glaze does slightly alter the porousness of the pot which can decrease the amount of moisture it would soak up. 

Plastic Pots Can Be Fun

Plastic pots are another prevalent choice for succulent pots. Unlike clay, you can find plastic pots in a large array of 

  • Sizes 
  • Colors
  • Shapes

These give the ability for a more personalized arrangement. They are also quite affordable and easily found at a local store. 

Plastic pots typically have good drainage, but pliable enough to drill into to create more holes, if necessary. Their lightweight material makes them a safer option for an area with small children or pets because they are not as breakable as clay.

The downside to plastic pots is they heat and cool easily. The material makes it easier for your succulents to burn or freeze. If you choose plastic pots, it is recommended to keep them indoors to keep an eye on the temperature.

Wood Pots Are Eye-Catching

Their unique style has enhanced the popularity of wooden pots and planters. They are a natural and sturdier material and do their best in full, direct sunlight. 

They also come in endless varieties of 

  • Stains 
  • Shapes
  • Sizes

They are conversation pieces. 

Although beautiful, wood pots can split or rot out at the base if not kept in proper sunlight. This is simply because wood is a natural, porous material that pools moisture too easily. If you think about trees, which normally rot, this should be expected if choosing a wood pot or planter. Just keep an eye out, checking the integrity of the pot every so often. 

Since wood is an organic substance, acknowledge the possibility of some pests nestling into this kind of pot. 

Choosing an Uncommon Type Of Pot

These are only a few of the endless other options, besides the usual suspects, to consider when choosing the right pot for your succulents.

Metal Pots Are Decorative

An unexpected type of pot used is metal. While they add intriguing and undeniable style, metal pots can overheat very quickly and eventually rust, causing irreparable damage to your succulents. It is recommended to only use a metal pot as a temporary home.

Although metal pots look stunnig, they should be used only temporarily.

Glass Pots Add Pleasing Aesthetic

If you choose to go with a glass pot for your succulents, you will want to remember there are sufficient drainage and airflow concerns.

You will most likely have to drill extra holes for drainage as these pots will probably be custom-made. Also, take care to choose one with a larger opening than you would get with another pot made from different materials. This is because your soil needs plenty of airflow, and the quality of airflow with glass is almost nonexistent. 

Hanging Baskets Add Style To Small Spaces

Hanging baskets are most common when growing a succulent such as a string of pearls because they grow big enough to see in the baskets. They make beautiful accents to small spaces, like a deck or porch. 

Hanging baskets are especially suitable for succulents like the String of Pearls.

Hanging baskets are one of the eco-friendlier options out there. You can easily find one made from 

  • Organic Products
  • Recycled Products
  • Recyclable Products

They may not be a great choice for smaller succulents, as they will be strung up and nearly impossible to see. Also, if choosing this type of pot, it needs to be kept away from high wind spaces because they can dry up quickly. 

Choosing The Right Pot For Your Succulents

When you choose the right pot for your succulents, it will ultimately be the pot that works best for your 

  • Space
  • Aesthetic
  • Budget
  • Environment

If you have a home with young children and pets, your perfect pot is most likely not made of clay.

On the other hand, if you are looking for an entirely unique pot, the good news is you can make almost anything into a customized succulent pot. Just remember to create proper drainage, have a large enough opening to promote healthy airflow if the material is not porous enough, and make the pot large enough for the plant to grow strong. 

How To Grow Succulents From Seed?

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Succulents are a beautiful way to decorate your home or office, and with so many varieties to choose from, you might be tempted to break the bank buying them at your local garden store. If you want a more cost-effective approach to filling your life with succulents, and you are willing to put a little time and effort into the process, growing your own succulents from seed might be the right choice for you!

Before you get started on growing succulents, though, you’ll want to be sure you know the basic steps required. Understanding the supplies and environment you’ll need to be successful, and being aware of some potential pitfalls to avoid, will help ensure you end up with a satisfying experience.

Choose the Type of Succulent You Want to Grow

There are hundreds of types of succulents out there, from the very common (like aloe) to rare varieties that are too difficult to find or too expensive to purchase in mature form. 

Take some time to learn about the types of succulents before choosing the one (or more than one!) that you’d like to grow. This guide from Succulents and Sunshine might be a good starting point; it has a helpful overview of 100 different types of succulents.

As you choose your succulents, you’ll, of course, want to consider how they look. But also think about how big they will be when they are mature and whether that size will be the right fit for where you plan to keep the plant long-term. 

You should also look carefully at the care needs of each type of succulent, both during growth and after it is mature. If you’ll struggle to meet the plant’s needs related to watering, sunlight, and temperature, you may want to choose another variety of succulent to grow.

Don’t forget that growing succulents from seeds is a long process, so you should also look at the germination time for each succulent type. Don’t choose a plant that takes months to germinate if you’re looking for faster results!

Purchase Seeds from a Reputable Seller

Because succulent seeds are so small, they can easily be confused with a bit of dirt or other gardening material, so it’s important to buy your seeds from a reputable seller to ensure quality. Check customer reviews before you make a purchase. Given the amount of time and effort you’re going to put into growing your succulents, you do not want to be disappointed down the road when you discover you bought fake seeds!

Gather and Prepare Your Other Supplies

In addition to your seeds, you’ll need some other supplies to grow your succulents:

  • A planting tray (more than one if you want to grow more than one type of succulent) – choose a shallow tray (just 3-4 inches deep) with drainage holes in the bottom
  • A cover for the tray, such as a plant dome or simple plastic wrap
  • Your chosen planting medium (sand, soil, etc.)
Prepare your supplies, including a planting tray, its cover, and suitable soil for your succulents.

One key decision you’ll need to make in growing succulents from seed is what planting medium to use and how you will prepare it. Succulents need soil that drains well to avoid the seeds being over-watered. So, you’ll want a sand-based soil mixture rather than a traditional potting soil.

You can opt to purchase a soil specifically made for growing succulents, or you can make your own soil mix combining horticultural sand and potting soil. If you want to learn more about making your own soil mixture for growing your succulents, this Better Homes & Gardens guide provides a great overview of types of potting soil and mixes.

Whatever soil you choose, be sure to sterilize the soil before use. Bake it in the oven (30 minutes at 300 degrees F) or the microwave (10 minutes), cool completely, wet the soil, and drain. Now you’re ready to plant!

Plant the Seeds

To plant your seeds, first, prepare your planting trays. Fill the trays with soil up to 1- to ½-inch from the top of the tray. Make sure the top of the soil is damp; this will allow the seeds to stick.

When dealing with tiny succulent seeds, be sure that you are planting in a sheltered area. Because they are so small, they could blow away with the slightest breeze! You may want to carefully place the seeds in the palm of your hand to make them easier to arrange in the planting tray. 

It’s generally not a good idea to spill them out onto the table you’re working on, as they could get lost in any soil or other debris.

Put the seeds on the top of the soil, carefully placing each one separately and providing space between the seeds. Consider the size of the mature plants in deciding how much space to leave between seeds.

If you are using individual growing trays, just put one or two seeds in each one. If you are growing more than one type of succulent, plant them in different trays.

To grow succulents from seeds, put individual seeds on top of the soil and keep some space between the seeds.

If you need to move the seeds after placing them, use a small tool like a toothpick. Do not cover the seeds with soil. When the seeds begin to germinate, they need to find their way to light above the soil, and with seeds so small, even a little soil on top would prevent them from doing this.

After you have planted the seeds, cover the planting trays with your plant dome or with plastic wrap with some ventilation holes in it. Succulent seeds need a warm, humid environment to grow. 

Some gardeners recommend direct sunlight at this stage of growth, while others suggest a warm sunny setting that is not in direct sunlight. Consult the specific care guidelines for the type of succulent you have chosen to grow and select a growing location accordingly.

Provide Daily Care for Germinating Succulents

Succulents need three key things to grow successfully: proper light, proper amount of water, and proper temperature. 

After your seeds have started to germinate, you’ll want to keep your plating trays in a well-lit area but out of direct sunlight. The seeds need good airflow to keep growing, so remove the lid from the growing tray once you see seedlings.

Although you generally only need to water a mature succulent once a week, when they are growing, they need constant water. However, you also need to ensure they are not overwatered. 

Daily care is essential for growing healthy succulents.

You may want to maintain water in the tray beneath the growing tray, allowing the water to be soaked up through the drainage holes. Add water daily to ensure the seedlings have all the moisture they need. Once the plants have fully established roots, you can gradually shift to watering less frequently.

Finally, most succulents should be kept at 70 degrees F when growing. You should ensure that the plants are not exposed to temperatures below 60 degrees F or above 80 degrees F. Choose your growing location based on the temperature and sunlight needs of the succulent variety you’ve chosen.

Replant the Mature Succulents

As we’ve mentioned already, growing succulents from seeds can be very rewarding, but it is not a fast process. You’ll need to provide ongoing care for your growing succulents for months before they are mature enough to replant and place them in their permanent homes.

After planting succulent seeds, it will take a couple of months for the plant to be mature enough for repotting.

Thankfully, the care needs of the plants will decline over time. They need the most attention during their first days and weeks of growth, and then less as time goes on. That said, you don’t want to try to replant too soon. 

Wait until the plant is large enough that you can easily move it without damaging fragile leaves and roots. It’s best to err on the side of waiting longer rather than moving the plant too soon. Usually, you’ll be able to replant after about six months.

Why My Succulents Turning Brown?

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Succulents- they’re resilient, they’re low maintenance, but they’re also known to turn brown. You’ve made sure to not over or underwater. You have good soil and optimum growing conditions, but what could be making those succulents of yours brown?

Why My Succulents Turning Brown? There are multiple things that could turn your succulents brown. They could be getting too much sun, or the browning might result from a pest infestation. Browning succulents are also an indicator of root rot. Some of these have better chances for revival than others do. 

We all want to see our succulents beautiful and flourishing; fortunately, there are things you can do to bring your beloved succulents back to their beautiful aesthetic that we love them for. We’ll cover what you can do to try to fix any of these issues and how to prevent them from happening in the future.

What Causes Succulents to Turn Brown?

There are many factors that can make your succulent start to turn brown. The most common issues that cause succulents to turn brown are:

With early detection and some extra care, you should be able to revive your plant from almost all of these.

Sunburn

Yes, even these resilient little plants can get sunburnt! It is common for these plants to start sunburn once temps start to get over 104 degrees Fahrenheit. It can also happen if you don’t properly acclimate a succulent to the level of light and heat you introduce it to.

Sunburn is one of the most common reasons why your succulent is turning brown.

What Does Sunburn Look Like on a Succulent?

There are a few telltale signs that let you know your succulent is suffering from a sunburn, beyond the browning:

  • Brown and dark spots
  • The plant is soft and mushy
  • Plant may collapse

Even though we think of cacti as made for the heat and dry climate, they still aren’t invincible.

How Can You Prevent Sunburn on Succulents?

You can do a few things to prevent your precious succulents from getting sunburnt. These things include:

  • If they are in pots, move them to a shadier area.
  • You could buy a shade cloth to block out some of the suns.
  • Allow more time for the plants to acclimate.

Acclimation will be important, especially if you’re moving a succulent into any drastic temperature change. We may not have sunscreen for our succulents yet, but we can do what we could to at least make their lives easier.

Frost

Frost will damage succulents similarly to sunburn. They can turn brown and end up collapsing. How can you prevent frost damage?

  • Bring them inside if possible
  • Buy a frost cover to cover them with
  • Keep away from windows during extra cold periods
Just as sunburn, frost can damage your succulents and the plants will gradually change their color to brown.

Succulents are quite resilient and can withstand high temperatures and really low temperatures, but like everything could only take so much.

Pests

Pests are just as gross as you’d expect. And your succulents don’t like them any more than you do. There are many pests that will mess with your succulents. These pests include:

  • Aphids
  • Mealybugs
  • Slugs 
  • Grasshoppers
  • Mice 
  • Birds 
  • Deer

There is a wide variety of pests that will come and mess with your succulents. Only a few are really common, though. Aphids and mealybugs are the most common suspects when it comes to succulent pests. 

If your succulent is not as green as it used to be, you should check if pests have damaged the plant.

Aphids are small insects that are green, black, brown, or orange. Mealybugs are small white bugs that look kind of like cotton. Aphids and mealybugs bite into the plant, and they suck sap and other juices out. They excrete those saps and juices out as something called “honeydew,” and that can grow into mold.

Getting Rid of Pests 

To get rid of aphids and mealybugs, you can do a couple of things:

  • A solution of 5% Neem oil, 95% water, and a few drops of dish soap
  • Use 70% isopropyl alcohol
  • Try an over the counter succulent pest spray

Use these substances with caution! They can kill the bad bugs, but they could also kill the plant too if you’re not careful. You could either apply this as a spray bottle or with a q tip. Make sure to clean off dead bugs, and after a few hours, rinse off any oils or alcohol you use. 

You’re going to want to quarantine those sick succulents of yours, so they don’t get any of your other plants sick. Make sure to keep an extra good eye on them for a few weeks. After the first week, give them another spray and a rinse, and then keep a good eye on them for another couple of weeks.

Over or Underwatering

Overwatering tends to be more of a problem than underwatering does, but we don’t want to do either of them. Overwatering will make your plant start to get soft and rot. Underwatering will make your plant dry and shrivel up.

To prevent your succulents from turning brown, you should only water them when the soil is dry.

How Often Should You Water Succulents?

There’s no specific amount of time you should wait to water your succulents, but a general rule of thumb is to wait until the soil is completely dry before you water again. This could be a few days to a few weeks, depending on climate and location. 

Signs of Overwatering

There are a few signs of overwatering. These signs could be:

  • During the early stage will be yellow
  • Leaves feel soft and mushy
  • A light touch could knock a leaf off
  • When severe can look brown or black

Just like a lot of these problems, early detection is the key. Once you reach severe overwatering, it could be too late to save that succulent.

How to Revive from Overwatering 

Thankfully, overwater succulents are one of the few things that they can recover from. Some things you could do to revive from overwatering are:

  • If possible, let the soil dry out 
  • After drying, change soil if the soil has bad aeration 
  • If damaged down to the stem, then cut what’s good and replant it

Soil can be a cause for issues because if it doesn’t have the proper aeration, then it could hold too much water. You want that soil to be nice and airy and be able to dry out well.

In addition to browning, there are other side effects from overwatering your succulents. Other issues overwatering can cause are:

  • Fungus infections
  • Water worts
  • Rot

Overwatering could cause a whole bunch of issues that you really don’t want to deal with. It’s important to let your soil completely dry out before you water again.

Signs of Underwatering 

Underwatering isn’t as common as overwatering, but you’ll notice underwatering if the top parts of the leaves start to dry up. Dried-up dead leaves on the bottom aren’t necessarily a bad thing, but once it gets to the top, that is an indication of an issue. 

How to Recover from Underwatering

I’m sure we could all guess this. You just need to make sure to give it a couple of waterings as you normally would, and it should start to perk back up. If the shriveling is severe, though, then your succulent could likely be past the point of revival.

Final Thoughts: So What Are Those Brown Spots On Your Succulents?

It could be many things, pests, too much sun, too much cold, over or underwatering, lack of care when handling, that is for you to judge off of this list we provided you.

 A lot of this can be taken care of with early detection or early action, but unfortunately, sometimes it can be a little too late to act, and you might have to restart with your sweet succulents. 

Hopefully, this can help you get out of a situation or prevent you from getting back into it in the future.

How To Choose The Perfect Soil For Your Succulents?

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Providing a solid foundation for your succulents, as in choosing the perfect soil, is the first place to keep them healthy. Succulents are currently all the rage, and whether you are putting them in your living room or bedroom, it can be important to make sure they have the care they need to succeed. One of the sources which ensure success when it comes to succulents is the soil it is placed in. 

Choosing the perfect soil for your succulents means picking soil that is a combination of regular potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite. These components must be mixed in the proper amounts to allow your succulent to have drainage without keeping in moisture. 

If you use the wrong type of soil for your succulent, it could cause it to not get the proper amount of water and air, and it may die. Keep reading to find out just how to choose the perfect soil to keep your succulents happy and healthy. 

Choosing Soil for Your Succulents

When you head to the store to buy soil for your succulents, it may be tempting to buy a bag of regular potting soil. Don’t do this. Regular potting soil retains water in amounts that are too high for your succulent, and this will cause them to rot. 

Another problem is that regular potting soil is too compacted for a succulent to grow properly. It stifles the roots, so they are unable to breathe. This is why succulents need their own soil.

Instead of getting random soil, make sure the soil is suitable for your succulents.

Look around the store for soil that is labeled specifically for succulents. Depending on your region, you may not see any soil which is specified for use with succulents. 

Check for soil that can be used for cacti because this soil has similar properties to the soil needed by succulents. If you don’t see either of these options, you may have to make your own soil to ensure the success of your succulents. 

Make Your Own Succulent Soil

If you’ve looked high and low for the perfect soil for your succulents and you don’t want to order soil online, it may be time to create your own soil. 

You can make your own succulent soil by mixing inorganic matter, perlite, and coarse sand.

Generally, the best recipe for making succulent potting soil is as follows:

  • 1/2 Inorganic Matter
  • 1/4 Perlite
  • 1/4 Coarse Sand

Inorganic matter refers to dirt, and this is where it is okay to use regular potting soil. However, it alone is not enough. This is why you will mix in the perlite and coarse sand to make the soil more breathable. 

You can also replace the perlite or coarse sand with other organic matter such as peat moss, compost, and bark. You have to be careful, though, as these three materials are all masters at retaining moisture and quickly cause your soil to become too wet if you replace both the perlite and the sand. 

You will need a large bucket to place all of these elements in, then use a spade to mix them all together. Once all the components are thoroughly mixed, you can shovel the mixture into the pot you plan to place your succulent into. 

Can I Use Soil from My Garden?

Do you already have an outdoor garden that you think has great soil? Unfortunately, it’s a bad idea to consider using this for your succulents. This is because the soil in your garden isn’t considered sterile, meaning it may be infested with bugs that could harm your succulent. 

Since soil in your garden is not sterile, it should not be used for planting succulents.

Not only that, but it’s likely your succulent will be a house plant, and who wants bugs in their house?

For the best results, purchase all-purpose potting soil that is fresh and free from pests. If you have questions about how fresh potting soil is, don’t be afraid to ask an employee for help. 

Can I Use Sand from My Sandbox?

Although it may be tempting to grab a handful of sand from your sandbox for your succulent soil mixture, this not the proper sand for your plants. Even if you live near the beach or another place with lots of sand, this is still not advised. This is because sand, like the soil from your garden, can contain bugs and other plant matter, which can harm your precious succulent. 

You should never use sand from a sandbox to add to your soil mix since it is not sterile and might contain bugs.

While shopping for sand, it’s best to find a coarse mixture that is recommended for use with cacti, succulents, or bonsai trees. This coarse sand is made especially for growing succulents and is much more sterile than the sand you will find outside. Don’t be surprised when you find that this sand is more expensive than sandbox sand. That’s because this sand is different and designed with your plant’s health in mind. 

What is Perlite?

This may be the first time you are hearing about perlite, and you may be wondering what it is. Perlite is a lightweight material made from volcanic ash. It goes through a process that makes it light and porous, which is one of the reasons it is so good to add to a soil mixture. Besides just helping the soil breathe, the pours on the perlite help the soil to store nutrients. 

Perlite is non-toxic, but it can irritate your lungs, especially in people who already have lung conditions like asthma. It can also irritate your eyes, so be careful with it while you use it. Luckily perlite never decays, so if you purchase a large bag, you can keep it around for your succulent planning for years to come. 

You can usually buy perlite at the same place you can buy gardening soil. But you can also order it online if you are unable to find it in a store. 

Notes for Outdoor Succulents

Now it’s possible that you may want to plant or keep your succulents outside. You can still use the same soil mixture that you created above, but you may need to make a few changes. You will know what changes need to be made based on the location in which you live.

If you live in an area with clay soil, it is not advised that you try to grow your succulents outdoors. This is because the ground is too dense to work with or amend in a way that is beneficial for succulents. You are better off keeping them in pots. The best pots for outdoor succulents are terra cotta or clay pots that will let the water drain. 

For those who live in an area that is non-clay soil but receives a lot of rain, it is best if you create the specified mixture above and plant your succulents in a raised garden bed. 

This will allow the excess water to run out of the soil instead of staying around the succulents’ roots and causing rot. Do note that if you are keeping your succulent in a pot outdoors in this type of weather, it should not be a plastic or glazed pot because these retain too much water.  

In windy areas, you can still use the raised garden bed idea, but it will be important that you also place some medium-sized stones on top of the soil to prevent it from blowing away. After all, that soil is your hard work and the lifeblood for your succulents!

Final Thoughts

It can be difficult to find the perfect potting soil for your precious succulents, especially because succulents cannot thrive in regular potting soil. When in doubt, you should make your own soil for your succulents rather than purchasing soil that won’t be quite right. Once you’ve created the perfect soil for your succulents, then you can sit back and enjoy watching as they thrive. 

Why Is My Succulent Turning Yellow?

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Succulents aren’t as easy to care for as you might have heard. They’re notorious for turning yellow when they’re unhappy. “I speak positivity over my succulent, I water my succulent, and I follow all the rules according to my care instructions, so why is she turning yellow?!” then you’ve come to the right place. 

The most common cause of a succulent turning yellow is too much water. Succulents are plants that store water in their leaves and stems because they grow in humid and dry environments. Therefore, overwatering is an easy mistake to make. Poor soil and drainage can also cause a succulent to turn yellow.  

To find out more about why your succulent is turning yellow, stick around. We have all the answers and some possible fixes. Just keep reading. 

What Does A Yellow Succulent Mean?

A yellow succulent is not happy and healthy! If succulents’ leaves are turning yellow, it is a sign that your plant is dying. Succulents are not like usual plants are watered multiple times a week. They require less attention, hotter climates, and less water. 

Overwatering and underwatering will cause your succulent to turn yellow. If your plant is overwatered, it will begin to turn yellow and rot. The leaves will start to bend and feel wet instead of dry and firm. 

Overwatering is one of the most common reasons for a succulent turning yellow.

Yellow leaves and black spots are signs of overwatering. If succulents receive too much water, they are less likely to get the nutrients they need from the soil stunting their growth and photosynthesis process. 

If your succulent is turning yellow, it can also be underwatered. This means that there is not enough water stored inside of the plants’ leaves. This can also cause the stem or leaves to feel brittle and fall off. 

If your succulent’s soil isn’t right, or it’s not draining properly, this can also contribute to yellowing leaves. In some instances, pests are the reason for a yellowing succulent. 

How Should A Healthy Succulent Look?

Succulents and cacti come in different shapes, colors, sizes, and species. They are a diverse plant group with one major characteristic in common. They are drought-resistant. These plants have tissues built for storing water long term. Succulents should have thick leaves that conserve water. 

Healthy succulents have fleshy leaves, thick roots, and dry soil.

Healthy Succulents Have

  • Thick roots
  • Thick and fleshy leaves containing sap
  • Feel firm to the touch
  • Leaves and stems standing upright
  • Dry soil

If your succulent does not have thick, upright leaves, some other tell-tale signs can help you save your plant before it is too late. 

How Can I Stop My Succulent from Turning Yellow?

The best way to save your succulent is to be very observant. Pay attention to the texture of the leaves, the feel of the soil, and the color of the plant itself. If a succulent turns yellow, it could mean that it has had too much light. 

Try moving your succulent to a spot with indirect light or in a shadier area for a few days. For example, if your plant is in the windowsill, move it to a table further away that still snags some beams of light or bring your place into the house off the porch for a few days. 

Be wary of succulents that you can see through. While succulents typically turn yellow, develop brown or black spots when in distress, they will begin to look transparent. The same steps can be taken to help save your succulent, whether it is yellow, black, brown, or translucent. 

When we think of plants, we think of plenty of sun, easy-to-break apart soil, and an abundance of water. Succulents are unique because they require a fair amount of sun, dry soil and only need watering about once a week. So almost the opposite of what we’ve been taught about plants in general. 

Repot Your Plant

Repotting can also save your succulent. Be sure that you are using soil specifically recommended for growing cacti and succulents. You can use cactus and succulent soil and add in extra elements to help the plant stay dry, like gravel or sand. 

Make sure you select the right soil when repotting your succulent.

The key is to place your plant into soil that encourages drainage so your plant will not become wet and therefore change color. 

Allow the Succulent to Dry

To save the succulent, you can also pull it out of the pot completely. Take your succulent out of the pot, brush off any excess soil, and clip browned or rotten roots. The roots can be darkened because of the excess water. 

This will allow your succulent to start healthier. Once the roots are cut off, leaving the succulent dry for up to 4 days. The drying out process does not have to be in the sun. 

Protect Your Succulent from Insects

Succulents turn yellow when their needs are not being met or they are experiencing an attack. Nobody likes a pest infestation! Succulents are susceptible to invasion from insects such as

  • Spider mites
  • Fungus gnats
  • Mealybugs
Pests gradually weaken your succulents and sometimes even cause their death.

While your succulent will not immediately turn yellow from the slow nibbling of these insects, over time, it will weaken your plant resulting in drooping yellow leaves. To get rid of these pests, apply rubbing alcohol to the outside of the plant or insecticidal soap. 

Use both sparingly and as directed to avoid worsening the condition of the plant. These insects will spread from plant to plant, so be sure to isolate the succulent until the issue has been remedied. 

Conclusion

Succulents are different than most plants and require a special kind of care to allow them to thrive outside of their natural conditions. 

To keep succulents alive, be sure to pay attention to the moistness of the soil, the thickness and rigidness of the leaves, and the color of your succulent. Invest in a pot that allows the proper amount of drainage, soil that is tailored to the needs of succulents, and find the perfect spot that allows the plant to soak up the sun. 

How To Easily Propagate Succulent Pups?

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There are two different approaches when planting succulents. One is to purchase the leaves, called pups, from a dependable succulent dealer. You can also propagate your existing collection of succulents following a few simple steps using the succulents already sitting in your window or plant stand.

While the official term is an offset, a succulent pup is a small root that pops out at the base of the succulent mother plant. If you are looking to have more succulents growing each year, it is best to remove pups in the spring. Some succulent plant owners will tell you late summer is best. You do what works best for you and your succulents.

Propagating Your Succulent Pups

Whatever timeframe you choose, there are always correct ways and procedures that may not work out well for you when trying the first attempt to produce new succulents. When propagating succulent pups, follow these thirteen basic steps to get your new succulent to grow correctly.  

Keep in mind that your succulent has been tirelessly working year-round, producing pup after pup as it grows. Most pups will be well-formed around the base as the other leaves are still in various growth stages.  

A succulent in a small pots on hand.
Make sure your chosen pups are fleshy and well-shaped before you propagate them.

Look for pups that are not showing signs of rot or discoloration. You will want to choose fat, well-shaped leaves to remove from the base. Flat leaves or those ripped or torn will ultimately wither and rot during the process.

Before you begin to remove the leaves, there are a few tools you will need to make things easier.

  • Root Hormone (optional but recommended)
  • A transfer pot with fresh topsoil mix

It is also a good idea to wash your hands thoroughly before beginning to remove the pups. You will be handling the pups with your fingers to pull them from the mother plant’s base. You don’t want to take a chance of transferring a bacterial infection to either the succulent or the pup itself.

Removing the Pups of Your Succulent

Now that you have identified the pups you intend to use for propagation; the next step is to remove each one. Hand removal of a pup is a tedious step but crucial one, and it requires patience. Grasp the first pup and gently rock it back and forth.

It is worth mentioning that your first pup may separate from the stem easily, but it is also a strong possibility that it may provide a tenacious grip on the trunk requiring you to work it a bit. Continue rocking the pup back and forth until it finally comes off.

Your goal is to have the entire leaf come off, including the base that attaches to the stem. Without it, the pup is damaged and will not survive the transfer process. Your first attempts may not be as successful, but keep practicing. You will get the hang of it soon.

Let the Succulent Pup Dry

As with all succulent leaves, you need to remember that the leaves are full of moisture. When you pull the pups away, it creates a wet wound at its base where it is connected to the stem. Before your next step, you must let the separation wound dry.  

Remember not to place the pups in any area of direct sunlight. They need to remain warm but not warmed by direct sun. Also, depending on the pup’s size and moisture content, it may take about two days to two weeks to dry.

You will know when the pup has dried sufficiently by examining the base of the succulent leaf. What you should see is a small scab covering the end. If there are still some pups that have not scabbed over, do not include them in the next step.

If you do, the results will be disappointing as the succulent leaf will rot and die in your potting mix. Considering that you have waited almost two weeks for the drying process to finish, a few more days for the final pups to dry shouldn’t be too long to wait.

Growth Hormone For Your Succulent Pups 

Using Root starter or growth Hormone makes sense to give your pups a leg up when it comes to establishing a great root system. Dip the scabbed end of the pup into the growth, and then place the scabbed portion into the pot filled with fresh potting mix.

You do not have to bury the scabbed end of the pup in the soil if you don’t want to immerse your succulents in the mix immediately. Many gardeners who frequently propagate their succulents often lay them flat on the fresh potting mix.  

If you chose the flat method, you should remember to arrange the pups with enough growth space for when they take root and start growing. While either way will work just as well, these two methods are merely a gardener’s preference.

Direct Sunlight and Your New Succulent Pups 

During the rooting period, your pups do not need direct sunlight. Direct sunlight at this stage does more harm than good as it will result in drying out the succulent.  

Hand and sunlight.
Avoid direct sunlight during the rooting period.

Many gardeners on their first succulent propagation attempt, have gone to the window to inspect the progress of their propagation efforts only to discover a bunch of withered and dead leaves. Yes, there will be a time to expose your succulents to sunlight to help them grow, just not at the moment.

Do Not Water Your New Pups Mist Instead

Newly propagated succulents need more water than fully grown succulents, but the last thing you want to do is drown them. You may need to mist once a week in humid environments where the soil stays moist.

A person watering the plant.
Instead of watering your newly propagated succulent, mist them once a week to keep the soil moist.

It will help your pups on their journey to mist twice a week when growing in dry climates. Remember to test the soil with a fingertip to determine moisture level before you drag out your mister.

Succulent Pups Over The Next Four Weeks

Over the next four weeks, if you adhere to the basic rules of sunlight and moisture, you should begin to see the products of your efforts. Tiny little root stems will start to show curling from the base of your pup into the soil.

If you propagated your pups using the flat method, you might want to cover the roots with a light dusting of potting mix and continue misting as you have over the last four weeks.

New Succulent Pup Growth 

Where there are new roots, there will eventually be a new plant. Continue misting your new plants as the new succulent begins to thrive, and you will notice that the pup used to propagate your succulents has withered and died.  

Haworthia offset.
Where there are new roots, there will eventually be a new plant.

You have a couple of choices at this point. You can leave the original pup where it is until it decomposes entirely, or you can remove it and discard it. Take care if you choose to remove it. You will need to apply the same care with the root system when removing the old pup as you did in the beginning.

Time for a New Propagation Transplant

Your little propagation wonder has now grown into a baby succulent and is producing pups of its own. It is time to transport it to its new home, where it can continue to thrive and multiply.

Hopefully, the final resting place you’ve chosen does not place your baby succulent in direct sunlight. At this stage of growth, your succulent still needs to stay away from the harsh heat of the sun.

Place Your Succulents in the Sun

As your succulent continues to grow, you can now move it to either your window box or plant stand where the sun filters in and your succulents get direct sunlight.  

Top view of plants on a pot.
After your succulents start to grow, you should place them in a way that they get plenty of direct sunlight.

Continue to water your new succulent as you would all of your other plants until next spring or summer when it becomes time to propagate some more pups.  The more you perform the propagation steps every year the more succulents you will have to display with a sense of pride.

What Temperature Is Too Cold For Succulents?

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Succulents are temperamental plants that should not be kept in extremely low temperatures. Cold environments cannot sustain succulents, and if you notice the temperatures dropping outside, act quickly to prevent succulents from freezing.  

Succulents are not likely to live in temperatures lower than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. In temperatures between 30 and 40 degrees, succulents can freeze and die. 

Succulents should be brought inside when temperatures drop below forty degrees Fahrenheit. Read on to discover how to care for your succulent when temperatures drop, why forty degrees is a point of no return for succulents, and what other temperatures pose problems for these plants. 

Why is 40 Degrees Fahrenheit Too Cold for a Succulent Plant?

Temperatures between 30- and 40-degrees Fahrenheit pose some extreme risks for succulent plants. Forty-degrees Fahrenheit poses a threat to succulent plans because that is the temperature at which they will begin to change color, and when they approach their freezing point, they will begin to develop frost and rot. Soft succulents are not able to withstand frost, and at 40 degrees Fahrenheit will develop frost on the leaves and other parts of the plant. 

Temperatures between 30 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit are extremely dangerous for succulents.

Risk at Temperatures Between 30- and 40-Degrees Fahrenheit

Succulents are at risk for freezing in temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The colors of your succulent plant will begin to change once it reaches 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. At that point, if you don’t move the plants into a warmer setting, they will start to reach their freezing point, and begin to die. 

If your succulent is exposed to temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the plant will begin to freeze. There is a short window of time from the point that your succulent reaches 40 degrees Fahrenheit to the time it will freeze. Succulents, especially soft succulent variations, should be brought indoors before temperatures get to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. 

In cases where succulents aren’t brought into temperature-controlled environments at 40 degrees, you will notice some prominent color changes in your succulent as it begins to reach its freezing point. The colors will become deeper and more vibrant until ice crystals form on the leaves and other parts of the plant. The longer the succulent plant is in colder temperatures, the more frost will develop on the leaves and soil. The plant will begin to show signs of rot and a black or brown discoloration before dying. 

Temperatures Below 32 Degrees Fahrenheit

The freezing point of succulent plants is around 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Succulent plants cannot sustain life at this temperature and will begin to freeze and die off. You should transfer outdoor succulents kept in pots or potable containers inside during the winter to keep them alive. 

If you begin to see tiny ice crystals forming on the plant’s leaves, you will need to immediately bring it into a warmer environment. If you fail to bring the plant in once ice crystals form on its leaves, it will become harder to revive once it is in a warmer environment. Most succulents cannot tolerate frost, and if exposed to it, they will begin to fade and eventually die. Bring non-frost tolerant succulents indoors at night to avoid killing them. 

Changes in Your Succulents at Extreme Temperatures

Color changes are the most noticeable change in succulents exposed to extreme temperature, whether high or low. Colors in succulents will begin to intensify when they reach 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and the closer they get to their freezing point of 32 degrees Fahrenheit, they will start to look dull and shrivel. 

Another color change in succulents is brown or black areas appearing on leaves or other parts of the plant. Weather that is too cold causes plant cells to burst, giving the appearance of rot. If the leaves or any other part of your succulent begin to turn a dark brown or black color, you may have left it at a temperature that is too cold for the succulent to remain healthy. 

Are There Succulents That Can Live in Extreme Temperatures?

Hardy succulents are a type of succulent that can tolerate frost. Hardy succulents are suitable for growth outdoors all year round, even in below-freezing temperatures. Sedum and Prometheum are two types of hardy succulents that can survive in these harsh, colder temperatures. 

Hardy succulents can withstand temperatures down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit and can withstand extreme drought. These types of succulents are extremely low maintenance, and because of the cooler temperatures they can survive in, they are more colorful and vibrant.

What is the Optimal Temperature for Succulent Plants?

It is essential to keep succulents at their optimal temperature around the clock. The ideal temperature for succulents is 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures, along with soil that is kept relatively dry, will let succulents flourish and prevent them from either freezing or burning. 

For succulents to grow healthy, they should be grown in the temperature range from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

The USDA developed a scale known as plant hardiness map that divides North America into 13 hardiness zones for succulents suitable to grow in those zones. Visit the USDA website to determine your area’s hardiness zone, and what types of succulents are ideas for growth in your zone. The hardiness zone map will give you the option to choose either hardy or soft succulents to plant and tell you if you’ll need to bring them indoors or if they will be able to withstand conditions year-round. 

How to Keep Succulents at Optimal Temperatures

If your succulents are planted outside, you may consider transplanting them around a month before the first winter frost in your area. Succulents can be transplanted into flower pots and kept inside during the winter. If your succulents are in pots, be sure to transport them indoors at night as well as before the first frost of the winter and through the months with colder temperatures. 

Always make sure that your indoor succulents get plenty of sunlight.

If transplantation isn’t an option, considering covering your outdoor succulents with a cloth before precipitation. Keeping the soil dry is a must for succulents. Keep indoor succulents away from drafty windows to prevent freezing, but make sure they still receive sunlight, either naturally or with a grow light. 

Frost cloths are explicitly made to protect outdoor plants from harsh conditions. Frost cloths like the Sunpro Plant Protector can be held down with heavy objects at the corners during precipitation or cold conditions to keep plants insulated and not subject to rain or snow. 

Temperatures too High for Succulents

Temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit can pose similar risks for succulents as freezing temperatures. You should protect your succulent by transporting it to a shaded area, or if they are in pots, potentially indoors. Extremely high temperatures, especially those above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, can be deadly for most succulents. 

Temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit can also damage your succulents.

Like the effects of colder temperatures, in extremely warm temperatures, the colors of your succulent will begin to intensify until reaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit, when the plant will start to burn, turning a brown or black color. If your succulent plants are exposed to extreme sunlight or higher temperatures, the roots and leave of the plant will appear fried or “sunburned.”  

Conclusion

Succulents are temperamental plants that cannot be kept at cold temperatures. At temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, succulents begin to experience changes, including extreme color change, but they will freeze and possibly die by the time they reach 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Likewise, in temperatures higher than 90 degrees Fahrenheit, succulents run the risk of burning in extreme temperatures or intense sunlight. To protect your succulent plants, bring them indoors or in temperature-controlled areas to prevent freezing or burning. 

8 Golden Rules For Watering Succulents

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It is difficult work to cultivate healthy succulents. In fact, many equate it to an art form. Certain things need to be done in order to develop a plant and keep it flourishing no matter what environment it might be in at the time. 

Succulents are unique plants in that they do not need much water. They are resilient and can withstand some tough conditions. However, that does not mean that they do not need some tender loving care along the way. Please continue reading to learn some golden rules regarding watering succulents that you will want to keep in mind. 

Important Information About Succulents

Before you get started on the path to maintaining a thriving array of succulents at home or in the office, there are some things that you should know. 

Keep in mind that although succulents store water, they still need to be watered regularly.
  • Succulents store water – These are resilient plants, so they are always storing extra water that they do not need. They do so in their leaves, roots, or stems. This allows them to survive even when they go as long as a month between watering. 
  • They still need to be watered – Just because succulents are known to thrive in drought like conditions does not mean that you can neglect the importance of watering them. You will want to develop a regular watering schedule and work to maintain it. 
  • Avoid overwatering them – Succulents can only store away so much excess water. You do not want to overdo it, so consider using this guide as a way to know how to more effectively water your succulents so that they can thrive in virtually any condition. 

Watering Your Succulents Indoors

Many people are naturally drawn to succulents because they are easy to maintain when kept inside. This is also what makes them such a popular choice for the office. 

Some of more the popular succulents that can be kept indoors include:

  • SedumsHens-and-chicks
  • Jade plants
  • Kalanchoe
  • Aloe vera
  • Snake plants
  • Cactus

Many people who keep succulents inside make the mistake of just giving them a little splash of water every once in a while. This is not the best course of action. Instead, you will want to have such plants in a small pot that has a drainage hole at the bottom. 

When growing succulents indoors, use pots with a drainage hole and water the plants until excess water starts to drain.

The best thing to do is to follow a set watering schedule. Give your succulent a good soaking until the excess water begins to come out of the hole at the bottom of the pot. The key here is not to leave too much excess water on the roots, as this will end up rotting them. You will then let the soil dry out completely before you water again. That is all there is to it. 

Once you have finished watering your indoor succulents, please make a note to yourself to check each one of them in a week or so. You just need to feel the soil with your finger. If it feels damp, then you can probably wait another week before checking again. 

Different Seasons Bring Different Indoor Watering Schedules

The interesting thing about succulents is that they tend to require more or less water depending on the season you are in. This is important to know because it impacts their ability to grow and flourish into the beautiful plant you were hoping they would be. 

You should consider seasonal changes and climate when creating a watering schedule for your succulents.
  • Spring – This is the time of the year that most succulents will actively grow. As such, you will find that you will want to water your plants a bit more often than normal. Of course, this will become obvious when you notice the soil drying out more quickly between watering than it does during other parts of the year. 
  • Summer – You might think that your indoor succulents need more water during the hottest time of the year, but that is not correct. In fact, this is the time of the year when you will be watering these plants the least. 
  • Fall – Watering will depend on where you are located, so just keep checking the soil to determine when you should add some more. 
  • Winter – The amount of light during the winter months will decrease. This will put your succulents into a dormant period where they will not go through much water at all. Follow the watering requirements listed earlier, and then just wait until the soil becomes dry. 

Watering your indoor succulents may not be an exact science, but it is not a difficult process either. Keep in mind that the size of the container you keep your succulent in will often determine how much water it needs. Small pots that are rather shallow may necessitate more frequent watering than larger pots will. 

Watering Your Succulents Outdoors

There are many reasons why you might want to have your succulents outside. When that time comes, there are some things that you will want to keep in mind. 

When planting succulents outdoors, give them shade and avoid placing them in direct sunlight.
  • Give them shade first – It is true that succulents love the sun, but they do need to become acclimated to it first. You will be doing them a favor by first planting them in an area that is partially shaded. 
  • You can move them later – Once your outdoor succulents have become used to the sunlight outside, you can then move them to an area of the yard that is much sunnier. 
  • Avoid areas that are too intense with the sunlight – As you look for places to plant your succulents, you will want to stay area from those parts of the yard that get the most intense sunlight in the midafternoon. 
  • They do need more water – Since the water will dry out more quickly thanks to the increased sunlight, you will need to water any succulents that you have planted outside. 
  • The amount of water depends on outside conditions – It is difficult to say exactly how much water your outdoor succulents will need. It depends on what part of the country you are in. Check the soil every week. If it is bone dry, you need to water. If it is still moist, then they are good. 
  • Special note for shallow containers and cactus – If you have any succulents planted outside in a shallow container, you will need to water them every few days. This same principle applies to any cactus that you might have outdoors as well. 

These are the general principles to keep in mind when watering any succulent that you plant outside. These are plants that can last for years if you will manage the mix of sunlight and water that they get. 

Watering Succulents Planted in the Ground

There are also plenty of occasions to plant succulents in the ground around your home and garden. Sedums are the perfect example of a succulent that can thrive in such conditions. How often you water them will depend on:

  • The conditions outside
  • How grounded the roots are

In essence, the longer the succulent has been in the ground, the less water it will require. To begin, you will probably want to water them at least once every week. 

Succulents that are planted outside will eventually be able to live for quite a long time under even the driest of conditions. This is particularly true for those succulents that have been in the ground for more than a few seasons. 

Growing succulents in the ground will require that the soil is well-drained. If you find it difficult to get the moisture out of the soil, you might want to consider moving them to a bed that has been raised. You can also mound up the soil in the locations around your yard where you are going to plant the succulents. 

If you decide to use mounds, it is recommended that they be one to two feet each. You will also want to use a compost mix that has been aged well. Mix it with perlite in order to give the succulents every possible opportunity to thrive in even the harshest of conditions.

Keep the soil healthy, give them a good soaking from time to time, and you will find that your succulents stay vibrant from one season to the next. 

Special Watering Tips for Your Succulents

Now that you have a general overview about how to water succulents depending on where they are located, it is time to get a bit more specific. As you can imagine, the amount of water that you provide your succulents is important, as is the frequency with which you do it. 

There are some additional tips that you will want to follow in order to give your succulents the best possible environment in which to grow and make you happy in the end. 

Pots Need a Drainage Hole

Since it is so important that you not overwater your succulents, it is recommended that you grow your plants in a pot that has a drainage hole. While you can eventually do away with practice once you get the hang of the watering process, this is a way to better mitigate the flow of water that is provided to the succulents. 

To be fair, you can certainly grow succulents in a pot that does not have any such drainage hole. However, it is a bit tricky to do so because there is a risk that water may accumulate at the bottom of the pot. When this happens, the soil will stay wet for far longer than healthy for most succulents. 

Using a pot without a drainage hold also requires more attention to your pot. You will need to monitor the amount of moisture in the soil much more closely. This may also alter your watering schedule. 

Remember that part of the beauty of succulents is that they do not require much time. Stick with a pot with a drainage hole, and you will be much better off in the end. If your pot does not currently have such a hole, you can easily add one by using a diamond tip drill bit. 

Soil Type is Important

When it comes to succulents, not all soil types are created equal. You have to keep in mind that any type of succulent can actually rot rather quickly if they are just sitting in water. This is why it is important that you use soil that is known for its ability to drain quickly. This means that soil will not retain water, thus allowing the roots the room they need to breathe. 

If you use fast-draining soil combined with a pot with a drainage hole, you will not need to worry about making a mistake when watering. This is because the materials you are using will do much of the work for you. 

If you have decided to plant succulents, get some porous potting soil and use fluffy materials for fast drainage.

You can easily find the right type of soil for your succulents when you go shopping at a local garden supply store near you. It is not expensive, and it will do wonders for the vibrancy of your succulents in the end. 

If you are the type of person that likes to do things yourself, you can make your own fast-draining soil mix by combining the following:

  • Porous potting soil
  • Various types of fluffy materials – Perlite or pumice tend to do rather nicely. 

Inspect the Soil Before Watering

It would be easy to say that all succulents require the same amount of water, but that simply is not accurate. Some will require a bit more water than others, so you need to pay a bit of attention to what is going on. The beauty of succulents is that they tend to tell you when they require more water. 

If you notice that the leaves are wrinkling and dropping quite rapidly, that indicates that you need to add some more water. However, you do not want to water your succulents too often. It is a delicate balancing act that you will perfect with practice. 

Always inspect the soil (dryness or wetness) prior to watering your succulents.

The principle here is to check the top of the soil. If you notice that it is bone dry, then that is an indication that you need to water some more. Give the succulent a good soaking, but then leave it alone. It needs time to completely dry out before you even think about watering it again. 

With succulents, less is better. In other words, it is better to underwater the plant than it is to overwater it. When you first start outgrowing succulents, it is best to water about once every other week or so. Take a look at how they react to the water, and then adjust the schedule as needed. 

What Type of Water Does a Succulent Need?

This might sound like a strange question, but the type of water that you use to water your succulents is an important consideration as well. Believe it or not, the best type of water for succulents comes from the sky. That’s right – rainwater is best. If it is not raining, then distilled water is a close second best. 

You might be wondering why this is even an issue. It is because tap water tends to contain many types of minerals that can be harmful to your succulents. These include magnesium and calcium. 

As minerals can be harmful for succulents, use rain water or distilled water to keep them hydrated.

Over time, these will build up around the soil. You may also notice mineral deposits on the leaves. They leave a dastardly white dot that detracts from the appearance you have worked hard to create. 

If you have a lot of succulents around the house, you might want to consider collecting rainwater during the appropriate season. That way, you will always have some on hand when you are ready to water. This is yet another way to really take care of your succulents and help them become as vibrant as they can be. 

Where Should You Water?

The next question becomes where you should put the water in the first place. With succulents, you want to water directly at the roots. Make sure that you do not spray or put water directly on the leaves. That is not beneficial at all. 

Avoid using spray bottles when watering your succulents.

When it comes to watering your succulents, here are some key things to keep in mind. 

  • Leave spray bottles out of it – Since succulents don’t need much water, many people make the mistake of simply using a spray bottle and misting the leaves. This provides nothing of substance to an adult succulent. It requires water directly in the roots, so use a watering bottle or can. 
  • Leave the leaves alone – You want to avoid watering the leaves. Water tends to stay on the leaves for far too long, causing them to rot over time. Stick to focusing on the roots and giving the soil a good soaking. 
  • Avoid watering when it is humid, raining, or very hot – These are all times when watering your succulents can do more harm than good. Wait for ideal conditions, check the soil, and then water if it is time. 
  • Morning is best – The best time of the day to water succulents is early in the day. Avoid watering at lunchtime or in the early afternoon. 
  • Rainwater is best, followed by distilled water – If at all possible, use rainwater when you set out to water your succulents. If not is available, distilled or filtered water is beneficial as well. Avoid using tap water in order to prevent mineral deposits from developing on your plants. 

What Type of Pot is Best for Your Succulents?

When it comes to watering your succulents, it is important to have the right type of pot for the occasion. This is how you can be assured that water is dispersing to where it needs to be and that you do not overwater. 

Here are some of the various types of pots that you have to choose from. 

Concrete Pots

Concrete pots are actually perfect for cactus and various other types of succulents. This is because water evaporates quickly in concrete, thanks to its porous nature. However, you will want to make sure that there are some drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. 

Due to the porous nature of concrete pots, they are among the best types of containers for succulents.

Concrete pots last for a long time. They are also excellent in terms of insulating plants against any sudden changes in temperature. Since concrete is also able to absorb heat, roots are protected better against frosty periods. 

Do keep in mind that concrete pots are a bit on the heavy side. They can also break quite easily, so make sure you are careful when handling them. 

Terracotta and Ceramic Pots

One of the main benefits of these types of pots is that they look great. Put a succulent in one, and it can quickly become the centerpiece of any room in your home or office. Like concrete, terracotta and ceramic are also quite porous. This makes them perfect for any area that is not well ventilated. 

Similar to concrete, one of the downsides to terracotta and ceramic is that the pots are quite heavy. They are also prone to breaking if not handled properly. 

Plastic Pots

This is probably the most common type of pot to keep your succulents in. They are so easy to move, and they make it a snap to water the plants in. You will want to make sure you get the type of plastic pots with drainage holes already drilled in the bottom.

You will love the fact that plastic pots are not fragile. You will also have many different colors and shapes to choose from. This makes it easier to create just the look you are hoping for with your succulents. 

One downside to plastic pots is that they are not as breathable as you would find with a concrete or terracotta pot. However, fast-draining soil combined with those drainage holes we have been talking about will take care of this problem. 

Wood Pots

You can get really creative with these. Wood pots are very attractive and can really bring your succulent alive when kept either inside or outside. Woods pots do not heat up like some other materials, meaning you do not have to worry if your succulent ends up in direct sunlight for part of the day. 

One issue with wood pots is that they will tend to deteriorate quite rapidly when in certain environments. Because of this, most people will only use wood pots when keeping their succulents indoors. 

Metal Pots

You might not think of metal pots when it comes to housing your succulents, but they are really trending right now. Consider copper and brass pots. They can really provide a nice accent to many places in your home or office. 

The disadvantage of metal pots is that they can rust. Obviously, this is not good for the health of your succulents. To keep this from happening, you will want to line the bottom of the pot with plastic. This will help prevent water damage. 

Metal pots are also best for indoor use only. Putting them outside will heat up your succulents rather quickly since metal is a heat magnet. 

Just the Right Amount of Water Please

This is what your succulents are screaming out at you. One final golden rule for watering succulents is that you want to avoid over or underwatering them. 

While succulents are rather simple to take care of and they can last for months with water, they can also die a quick death if their roots are flooded. The following advice will help you avoid doing that. 

The Problem with Overwatering

Succulents tend to store water within their leaves and stems. This is different than other plants that depend on a complex root system to survive. This is an evolutionary design, as succulents can now survive in arid environments where they may not get much water for months at a time. 

To prevent the leaves and roots of your succulent from rotting, give them just enough water to thrive.

While it is nice that you come along and take care of them, you do not need to feel sorry for them. Give them just enough water to be happy, but do not drown them. If you overwater a succulent, their roots and leaves will rot. They can become like a balloon that is overfilled with air. Do not do this to them. 

The Problem with Underwatering

Since succulents can go so long without water, many owners make the mistake of thinking that they can just leave them for months at a time. You do not want to neglect your succulents. The leaves will dry out. This not only creates an ugly looking plant, but it results in death as well. 

To avoid underwatering your succulents, put in on your internal schedule to test the soil every week or so. This is all you need to know whether or not you need to give them some water. If you do this, then the leaves will stay healthy and vibrant for quite some time to come. 

Wrap-Up

After reading this guide, you should now know all there is to know about watering succulents. There really is not much to it, but you do need to pay attention to them from time to time. If you do that, then you will end up with a great indoor or outdoor plant that really adds to the overall ambiance quite nicely. 

12 Best Types Of Succulents To Grow Indoors

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You can never go wrong with succulents as your indoor plants. Having a succulent in your room makes the house feel cozy and fresh. Plants have a natural way of purifying the air and making your home a healthy place to live in.

But before you run to grow any succulent you come across, you must know that not all of them are suitable for indoor planting. Others won’t do well in the enclosures of a house, and some will give you a difficult time to care for. But there are still many succulent varieties that are easy to care for and can grow well indoors. The likes of Aloe Vera, Christmas cactus, and crown of thorns are perfect examples of succulents that thrive indoors.

If you’re looking forward to starting an indoor cacti garden, you’re going to have to make the right selections. Here is a list of 12 types of succulents that can thrive indoors and make your house beautiful and fresh.

1.  Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a famous succulent that is typically easy to grow and can do pretty well indoors. This plant is known for its beauty as well as its functionality. Many people use Aloe Vera for its medicinal purposes. The plant has sap on its leaves that has been used for decades to cure skin conditions, including acne, burns, and scrapes. The plant is used to make many creams, skin lotions, and ointments because of its medicinal purpose.

Aloe Vera is an easy-to-grow succulent that thrives in tropical climate, but can also grow perfectly healthy indoors.

You can easily identify Aloe Vera with its thick, greening, and pointed leaves. Some varieties grow white spots on the leaves. Aloe Vera thrives in tropical climates but can also do well when given proper indoor care in any climate.

2.  Crassula

Crassula has grown for many years as a houseplant making it a wonderful addition to your succulents’ collection. The plant is an evergreen one with shiny leaves. This succulent is easy to plant and can tolerate different soil types as long as there’s good drainage. It requires a good amount of sunlight, but it can also tolerate some shade.

When grown indoors, crassula will grow up to six feet tall and develop branchy stems with some fleshy-looking leaves. For it to thrive well indoors, give your crassula a fresh pot every spring. When grown outdoors, crassula can bloom in white and pink blossoms.

3.  Christmas Cactus

Christmas cactus is a famous house plant that is used widely as a gift, hence the name. This succulent is in the cactus species, but it doesn’t produce spines like other cacti. It also differs slightly from other cacti in that it requires a little more moisture. You need to water it every time you notice that the topsoil is dry. But you don’t worry if you forget to water your Christmas cactus for a while because it easily bounces back from drying and thrives once again.

A Christmas Cactus is a spineless plant that produces gorgeous white, pink, red, or peach orange flowers during winter.

The cactus produces beautiful blooms during winter, provided you keep it near the window. Its flowers have beautiful yellow pollen. Give it good care throughout the year, and you’ll have some beautiful flowers to gift out during Christmas.

4.  Burro’s Tail

The Burro’s tail is a beautiful plant to add to your indoor collection native to Mexico. The plant produces amazing fat trailing stems, which make it ideal for growing in hanging baskets. You’ll also recognize it with its gray-blue or gray-green leaves that are usually 2 feet long.

For your Burro’s tail to thrive, make sure it receives bright sun. Keep the soil dry during winter dormancy and fertilize it in summer. Do not disturb the plant because a slight touch can make the leaves easily fall out.

5.  Crown of Thorns

The crown of thorns succulent is also known as Christ plant or Christ thorn and is native to Madagascar. The Latin Americans call it Corona de Cristo. The beautiful houseplant grows beautiful thick stems that are quickly invaded with thorns.

If you want this plant to thrive and reward you with beautiful blooms, make sure it receives direct sunlight. It blooms in pink and red flowers all year round, provided there’s enough sun.

6.  Echeveria

If you want your house to have a perfect supply of green all year round, then the perfect succulent to plant is the Echeveria genus species. The beauty of these plants lies in their rosette shape and their leafy attributes. It’s an evergreen plant with a palette of hues with colorful flowers on the delicate stems.

Echeveria is one of the most popular succulents that requires sandy and well-drained soil to produce blooms.

For it to thrive and reward you with beautiful blooms, make sure your Echeveria received full sun and part shade. Give it sandy and well-drained soil. When watering the plant, make sure it goes directly to the soil and not on the leaves. This way, you’ll protect the waxy coating and protect the plant from rotting.

7.  Ponytail Palm

Ponytail palms got the name from their woody-looking trunk and leathery leaves that make them look like palm trees. The succulent grows very slowly and beautifully, making them perfect for indoor gardening. They can grow up to four feet indoors and go up to 20 feet when you move them outdoors.

The plant is also known as elephant foot, thanks to its bulbous base trunk. The primary purpose of the trunk is to enable the plant to store water. Ponytail palm thrives in bright light, low humidity, and warmer temperatures. It does pretty well indoors if you can provide it with these growth conditions.

8.  Hens-and-Chicks

Take a glance at these plants in a container, and you’ll appreciate the work of nature. The flat flowerlike rosettes with round edges will no doubt bring perfect work of beauty to your indoor garden. The plants reward your hard work with their arching, bell-shaped blooms. They give your garden interesting shapes and colors that make your house a vibrant collection of plants.

When you grow these succulents as houseplants, make sure they slightly dry between watering to avoid rot. Put them in the spot near the window where they can receive direct sunlight. The soil should be sandy potting mixed with good drainage.

9.  Lithops

If you never thought some plants look like stones, then meet lithops. The succulent plants take the appearance of stones or pebbles and are also known as living stones. If you don’t know them, you won’t even realize they’re plants. These succulents are easy to care for and thrive well indoors.

You have to ensure your plants receive plenty of sunlight. Give them poor but well-drained soil and a shallow potting. They’ll mostly grow underground and only expose their leaves to get moisture from above the ground. Water lithops sparingly during winter to ensure they don’t rot.

10. Portulaca

Portulaca plant, also known as moss rose, is a beautiful succulent plant that can thrive well with little or no care. If you give it full sun and enough room to roam around, the plant will grow well, even in dry soils. Portulaca is a half-hardy succulent that won’t tolerate cold temperatures. You only need to water them when the leaves drop.

If you give it well-drained soil and the right watering, Portulaca will surely reward your garden with bright, showy flowers with double or single rows of petals. The blooms range from yellow to hot pink. They also have narrow leaves that look like pine needles. Its trailing stems will look lovely in hanging pots.

11. Haworthia

Haworthia is a perfect houseplant that won’t take up a lot of your indoor space. It’s a tiny succulent that only grows a few inches tall and thrives with little care. The succulent grows in a beautiful rosette that looks like aloe. You’ll recognize it easily with its white bands on evergreen leaves. It has a striped appearance like that of a zebra plant.

Haworthia is tiny houseplant, ideal for those looking for low-maintenance succulents.

You can grow several of these plants in a shallow dish which you should put on the window sill to give you a wonderful display. Make sure it receives bright but indirect sunlight if you want it to grow beautifully.

12. Snake Plant

Snake plant is another beautiful succulent that will likely add an interesting accent to your room. To preserve its beauty, you have to wipe clean the leaves with a rag now and then. Make sure you give the snake plant direct sunlight for it to thrive well. This plant can still thrive well without water or light but will still maintain its beauty.

Snake plant grows in thick, stiff, and pointed leaves that go up to three feet long. You’ll also identify them with their patterned markings that give them the name snake plant. Although it can tolerate low light and little watering, it still needs some bright light and moisture when the soil dries up.

Summary

There are plenty of succulents to choose from and beautify your indoor garden. You have to realize which one does well in your climate area and which one you can care for without problems. Go through the plant’s specifics and understand how to grow and care for it before taking it home.

If you give your succulents the care they deserve, they reward your garden with color and immerse beauty. Choose yours from this list of 12 succulents, and you’ll love the look of your garden after a few months.