A guide to caring for succulents: the secrets of longevity

The main types of succulents: A variety of species and their characteristics

Succulents are unique plants that are able to store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, which allows them to survive in conditions of limited water supply.

1. Echeveria: These plants are known for their rosettes of leaves that resemble small flowers. They come in a variety of colors and textures.

2. Aloe: With its distinctive shape and healing properties, aloe is one of the most famous types of succulents.

3. Sedum: Also known as "stone dew", sedum offers a variety of shapes and colors and is often used to create beautiful decorative carpets.

4. Cacti: These plants need little introduction, thanks to their hardiness and thorns.

5. Graptopetalum: It has flat, heart-shaped leaves and goes well with other succulents in compositions.

6. Kalanchoe: These plants boast bright flowers and soft, fluffy leaves.

Different types of succulents may have different requirements for light, water and temperature, so it is important to keep this in mind when choosing plants for your collection.

Choosing the right place: How to ensure optimal lighting and temperature

1. Lighting: Succulents, in general, love sunlight. However, the amount of light they need may vary depending on the species. Generally, a location that receives 6+ hours of direct sunlight is ideal.

2. Temperature: Most succulents are comfortable with temperatures between 15 and 26 degrees Celsius. Temperature fluctuations between day and night can promote better flowering.

3. Location: Determine the best place for the plants in the house or yard, taking into account their light and temperature requirements. Places near windows, on the balcony or in the garden can be a great choice.

4. Adaptation: When relocating the plant to a new location with different light conditions, give them time to adapt by starting with short intervals in the new light and gradually increasing their duration.

5. Lighting and temperature play a key role in the growth and development of succulents, so choose the right location and monitor changes in your plants to make adjustments as needed.

Water and succulents: Secrets of proper watering

Succulents are famous for their ability to withstand dryness, but proper watering is key to maintaining their health and beauty.

1. Watering frequency: Succulents need less frequent watering than most other plants. Water when the top layer of soil is completely dry.

2. Watering method: Use the "flood and dry" method by filling the tray with water and allowing the soil to absorb enough moisture.

3. Water: Prefer distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral buildup in the soil.

Soil preparation: What you need to know about soil and potters

Preparing the right soil and choosing the right pot is crucial to ensuring the health of your succulents.

1. Soil type: Choose or create a soil mix that drains well to prevent water from standing at the roots.

2. Pots: Choose pots with holes for drainage and use trays to prevent water from running on the surface.

3. Placement: Arrange the pots so that the plants have enough space for growth and ventilation.

Control pests and diseases: How to protect your plants

1. Identifying problems: Regularly check your plants for signs of pests (e.g. spider mites) or diseases (spots, rot).

2. Natural methods: Consider using natural control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects or using natural insecticides (e.g., soapy water).

3. Prevention: Prevent problems by providing the right care and conditions for your plants, such as optimal watering and ventilation, to prevent diseases from developing.

4. Isolation: If a plant is infected, isolate it from others to avoid spreading the problem.

Propagation of succulents: Easy ways to get new plants

Succulents are known for their ability to reproduce easily, giving you the opportunity to expand your collection and share them with others.

1. Leaf propagation: One of the most popular techniques involving separating a healthy leaf and germinating it into a new plant.

2. Propagation by means of sections: Involves cutting off a part of the plant and germinating it as a new specimen.

3. Sowing seeds: Succulents can be grown from seeds, allowing for a wider range of species to be explored.

4. Care during reproduction: Providing optimal conditions such as humidity and warmth is crucial for the success of the process.

Autumn and winter: Ensuring winter dormancy for your plants

Succulents go through a period of winter dormancy when their growth slows down and they need changes in their care regimen:

1. Reduced watering: The winter period requires less water; make sure the soil is completely dry before each watering.

2. Lighting: Even when dormant, plants need light; provide them with bright, direct light.

3. Temperature: Most succulents prefer cool temperatures at night and warmer temperatures during the day.

4. Check for pests: Winter is a time when some pests, such as root lice, can become a problem, so keep your plants under close supervision.

5. Moving indoors: Some succulents need to be provided with indoor wintering to protect them from the cold.

Successfully caring for succulents throughout the year requires understanding and accommodating their seasonal needs and life cycles. Providing the right conditions and appropriate care during each stage of your succulents' life will ensure their health and longevity.