5 ways to keep your succulents alive
What's the story
The thick, fleshy succulents are popular indoor plants. They are the easiest indoor plants to cultivate which can also withstand tough circumstances. These come in a variety of shapes and colors and are apartment-friendly as they won't take up much room. Despite their hardiness, their survival hinges on proper care. Explore these essential tips to ensure these charming plants flourish in your home.
Choice
Choose the right plant
Succulent comes in many types. Not all are suitable for indoors. If you wish to grow one indoors, select a plant that can survive in the shadow and doesn't need direct sunshine. Additionally, pay attention to the local climate as it can have a significant effect on the well-being of your succulent. Do your homework before bringing a succulent home.
Pot
Plant them in pots with holes
Always ensure that the pot has a drainage hole. Proper drainage is crucial because stagnant water quickly causes root rot in succulents. Since terra-cotta pots are porous, excess water is easily absorbed and allowed to evaporate. Another excellent, breathable material is ceramic. Avoid planting them in plastic pots. The water in them does not evaporate quickly, hence you might end up overwatering it.
Soil
Perfecting soil conditions is key to thriving succulents
Soil that retains water is inhospitable to succulents. Therefore, it is crucial to make sure your succulent is planted in soil that drains quickly but holds moisture. Maintaining a well-ventilated and well-drained pot for your succulent will help to ensure that the soil dries out quickly. It allows more air to get through and encourages evaporation if you have an indoor succulent.
Pests
Inspect your plant for pests
Pest dangers affect succulents more often indoors than they do outdoors. Check your plants frequently to make sure they are free of mealy bugs or gnats, which are signs of overfertilization or overwatering. You can effectively eliminate mealy bugs and their numerous eggs by spraying rubbing alcohol on the leaves or soil. These bugs consume the plant's fluids and can destroy them.
Lighting
Find the sweet spot between sun and shade
Succulents require equal amounts of shade and sunlight. Their leaves become burned in full sun, yet they become rangy and weak in low light. If they are outside, position them so they receive morning light and afternoon shade. To provide your indoor succulents with the bright light they require, place them next to a south-facing window.