The surface of our planet is characterized by the variety of its landscapes: from tropical jungles to inhospitable deserts. It is logical to think that in each of them there are different conditions for the development of living beings.
In places with mild temperatures and abundant rainfall, plants with good height and large leaves will proliferate. But what about those that grow in areas where thermometers melt? Well, like any other living being, they will adapt to the environment! They will modify their size to optimize resources and store water in the roots, leaves, and stems.One of the
best-known species of these true survivors are succulents, a category that includes a multitude of families and genera, spread across the globe. As they are increasingly present in our homes and gardens, today we will talk about the care of succulents. Read carefully our guide to useful tips for your care!
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Succulents: Description, Cultivation and Care
It is difficult to specify an exact origin and definition for succulent plants. They did not appear in a single place nor do they have elements in common beyond those mentioned above. The different families have no genetic relationship to each other and no common ancestor. They simply emerged in different parts of the world and their evolutionary processes led them to develop similar capabilities separately.
It is precisely to this surprising trait that succulents owe their enormous variety. We can find them in all kinds of shapes and colors. This, together with their ability to adapt, makes them a perfect choice as a decorative element of our home. You could decorate your entire house with succulents alone without repeating any of their endless varieties!
The most famous families of succulents are the Aizoaceae, Cactaceae, Crassulaceae, and Euphorbiaceae, with over 1000 species each.
Although there are many differences between them, the care they all require is quite similar. Let's talk about them.
Succulents, accustomed to living in the most inhospitable and hostile corners of the planet, have developed extraordinary resilience. This makes maintenance tasks much easier.
- Light & Location
The first thing they need is large daily amounts of sunshine. Not directly (although certain species can withstand direct sun exposure), but in well-lit places where they have natural clarity.
Indoors, it is highly recommended to place them near windows or in galleries. If, on the other hand, you prefer to enjoy them as outdoor plants, look for areas where they are protected from the direct impact of the sun.
Direct solar incidence, especially in times of high temperatures, can deplete their water reserves and even burn them. The absence of natural light also hinders its proper development.
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- Soil
These plants require so little care that they don't even need good soil. On the contrary, they appreciate a soil without great mineral or nutrient inputs. A universal basic substrate, with pebbles that improve drainage, or a specific one for cacti, will be more than enough.
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- Temperature
Due to their origin and characteristics, succulents not only withstand, but also need high temperatures. But surprisingly, they also withstand reduced temperatures. Depending on the species, they may do so to a greater or lesser extent. The ambient temperatures inside the homes will be perfect for them.
How to Grow Succulents
- Watering
Thanks to their water reserves, they can withstand long droughts and temporary "abandonment". But no matter how hardy they are, at the end of the day, they are living beings, and if we don't provide them with food, they will die. Therefore, we have to water them moderately, without excesses that cause waterlogging that can drown them. Watering should be spaced out and the amount of water reduced. As a general guideline, the frequency of watering can be once a week in summer, and biweekly in winter.
They don't need special humidity conditions.
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- Fertilizers and fertilizers
Since they do not require a large amount of nutrients, diluting a small amount of fertilizer in the irrigation water will suffice. It is recommended to do this on a monthly basis during the spring and summer months. In autumn and winter, these plants usually enter a period of rest. If we continue fertilizing, the fertilizer could accumulate in the soil and cause damage to the plant.
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- Transplant
No special needs. When the pot is too small to contain the roots, it will need to be moved to a larger one. Spring is the best time for this.
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- Pests There
are no specific pests or parasites that affect this type of plant. However, we could eventually detect the presence of mealybugs, which are very common in many species.
This tiny insect manifests itself in the form of small spots on the underside of leaves. It can cause serious damage if not treated in time. The spots will be brown or whitish, depending on whether the attack is due to brown or cottony mealybugs. To eradicate the infection, dip a piece of tissue in methyl alcohol and run it over the leaves. On larger plants, you can remove them with a sponge and neutral soap. If the infection persists, apply a specific chemical directly.
- Pruning
It is not very common to prune succulents. What is advisable is to eliminate the leaves that are withering to prevent them from becoming a focus of parasites.
The enormous variety and great resistance of succulents, in addition to their rare beauty and the potential they have to be used as decorative plants, make this species essential elements of our home. Combine them however you want and enjoy them in all their splendour both in the living room and in the most special corner of your garden!