Complete and practical care of succulent plants: a visual and detailed guide

Succulent plants They not only stand out for their fascinating and colorful shapes, but also for their ability to store water in leaves, stems, or roots, making them excellent options for both indoor and outdoor use. Their easy maintenance and great resilience have made them a favorite among both experienced and novice gardeners.

Originating mainly from arid zones of Africa and America, although there are notable exceptions in Europe (such as Sempervivum), succulents exhibit a fantastic variety of species capable of surviving extreme conditions, from drought to, in some cases, severe frost. Learning to care for and multiply these plants is the first step to enjoying their beauty all year round, since knowing their needs allows them to stay healthy, vigorous and flourishing.

What is a succulent plant and what are its main characteristics?

The term succulent It brings together a great diversity of botanical species that have developed tissues capable of store water to survive in conditions of scarcity. These tissues can be found in:

• Leaves (as in echeveria y Kalanchoe).
• Stems (cactus, euphorbias).
• Roots or rhizomes.

Succulents are characterized by a wide variety of shapes: they can be shrubby, creeping, upright, compact rosettes, globose, or cylindrical. Their colors vary between bright greens, blues, reds and purples, sometimes changing depending on exposure to light or drought. This diversity, combined with its easy adaptation, explains its popularity in decorative and xerophytic gardening.

Detailed guide to caring for succulent plants

Where to put the succulents?

Location is key to successful succulent cultivation. Choosing the best spot will depend on the specific species, but most succulents require high light levels:

• Exterior: The ideal place for most succulents, especially cacti and thick-leaved species, is the Exterior, where they can enjoy several hours of sunshine a day. It is crucial to protect them from severe frost, with notable exceptions such as Sempervivum that withstand very low temperatures.
• Interior: In areas with harsh winters, they can be kept indoors as long as they have plenty of indirect light, preferably near a south- or east-facing window.

Avoid exposing them to drastic temperature changes or cold air currents and do not place them in shady or humid places such as poorly ventilated bathrooms or kitchens, as this can promote the appearance of fungi or growth problems.

Do they need direct sun or shade?

• Direct sun: The most resistant species, such as most cacti or Aeonium, benefit from 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Luminous shadow: Other species, such as haworthia, Sanseviera, gastronomy, Schlumberg was y Sempervivum, they prefer places with bright light but protected from direct sunlight, especially during the central hours of the day.

If you are unsure about the ideal exposure for your succulent, opt for the luminous shadow and observe it: if the leaves If they lose color or stretch in search of light (etiolation), they probably need more sun. Indoor plants should be rotated regularly to ensure their entire structure receives a balanced amount of light and prevent them from becoming deformed.

How to water succulents correctly?

One of the keys to the good development of succulents is the irrigation controlThese are the most important points:

1. Irrigation frequency: It depends on the season and the weather. In general, water once or twice a week in summer (if it is hot and the substrate dries quickly) and every 10-15 days in winter, or even less if the plant is dormant.
2. Irrigation technique: Water thoroughly until water runs through the drainage holes in the pot. Don't use spray bottles or wet the leaves, as this can promote rot. If the plant is in the ground, make sure the water penetrates well into the root zone.
3. Verification: Before watering, insert your finger or a stick into the potting soil: if the top layers (at least 2-3 cm) are dry, it's time to water. Overwatering is the main cause of death in succulents.

The best way to water is deep irrigation, making sure the soil is well moistened but not waterlogged. If the pot doesn't have drainage holes, use less water and be extra careful with the soil. moisture.

Symptoms of watering problems in succulents

• Lack of water:
  • Wrinkled or drooping leaves.
  • Slow or no growth.
  • Very dry substrate, unable to absorb water easily.
  • Appearance of pests due to weakening.
• Excess of water:
  • Soft, transparent or easily detachable leaves.
  • Soft stems, with an unpleasant odor.
  • Presence of mold, mildew or dark spots.
  • Brown, black or rotten roots.

To correct underwatering, soak the pot in water for half an hour and allow it to absorb the moisture. If there is excess water, remove the plant, dry the soil with absorbent paper, and repot it in dry, well-draining soil. Remove damaged roots and apply fungicide if necessary.

Ideal soil and substrate for succulents

A good substrate ensures the plant's development and health. The best soil for succulents should be:

• Lightweight y well drained, to avoid flooding.
• Rich in minerals but not excessively fertile (excess nutrients can affect its natural development).
• With a good percentage of inert materials such as gross sand, perlite, vermiculite I charcoal to increase porosity.

Recommended recipe for potted succulents:

• 2 parts of black soil or peat.
• 1 part solid humus.
• 3/4 parts coarse sand.
• 1/2 part perlite and 1/2 part vermiculite.
• 1/2 part charcoal.

You can also find specific mixes for cacti and succulents at the nursery, which usually include the aforementioned components. Find out more about succulents and succulents.

For soil crops, choose an area with good natural drainage or improve the structure by adding gravel or coarse sand. Avoid clay and compacted soils, as they retain too much moisture.

The role of the pot and drainage

The choice of container is essential. Use pots with drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away. Terracotta pots are ideal, especially for beginners, as they absorb some of the moisture from the substrate and reduce the risk of rot. You can consult How to water succulents in pots without drainage.

Avoid placing saucers under pots unattended, as standing water can damage the roots.

Additional care: cleaning, rotation and environment

• Cleaning: Dust accumulated on leaves can hinder photosynthesis. Periodically clean the leaves and thorns with a wet cloth or a soft brush to reach the most difficult corners.
• Plant rotation: Rotate your pots occasionally so that all sides receive light. This will prevent them from growing unbalanced or crooked.
• Temperatures and humidity: prefer warm temperatures (15-25°C) and dry environments. Protect them from extreme cold by keeping them indoors or under cover if the temperature drops too low. Always avoid excessively humid areas.

Fertilizing succulents: When and how to fertilize

Although they are not particularly demanding plants in nutrients, adequate fertilization can enhance their growth and flowering. Apply liquid fertilizer specifically for cacti and succulents diluted in the irrigation water. in spring and summer, approximately once a month. During the fall and winter, when they usually rest, avoid fertilizing.

Foliar fertilizers can also be used, applied with a sprayer to the leaves (always during times without direct sunlight), following the manufacturer's instructions to avoid excess.

How to transplant succulents and cacti step by step

Transplanting is advisable when the plant outgrows the pot, has compacted roots, the substrate is depleted, or if there have been watering problems. It is ideal to do it in spring, although if the plant is in poor condition it can be done in summer with caution.

1. Prepare a suitable pot (with drainage) and the substrate mix recommended above.
2. Remove the plant Carefully, avoiding damaging roots or stems. Wear gloves with cacti or thorny plants. For large specimens, you can protect them with cork and cardboard secured with string, and ask for help handling them.
3. Remove some of the old substrate and check the root system. Cut off rotten or damaged roots with disinfected scissors.
4. Place in the new pot, centering the plant and filling it with new substrate without burying the neck too much or leaving roots exposed.
5. Don't water right away: Wait at least 3 days for cuts and wounds to heal and avoid infection.

Most common pests and diseases in succulents

Although they are very resistant By nature, succulents can be affected by various pests or diseases, especially if they are weakened by excess water, lack of light or nutrients:

• Mealybugs: They appear as small, white, cottony bumps on leaves and stems. Their bites cause weakness and slow growth.
• Aphids: Tiny green or black insects that suck sap and can cause deformities.
• Red spider: It produces spots and discolorations on leaves, often accompanied by fine cobwebs.
• Whiteflies, snails and slugs: They usually attack soft and young parts.

Fungal diseases: Mainly mold, phytophthora, rust or mildew, almost always associated with high humidity or poor ventilation.

Treatment: Use organic insecticides such as diatomaceous earth or neem oil to control pests. For fungus or rot, apply multipurpose fungicides and improve aeration and drainage.

Propagation and multiplication of succulents: Simple methods

Propagating succulents is a simple and satisfying process, perfect for expanding your collection or sharing with friends. There are several techniques:

• By seeds: Although it's slower, it allows for a large number of new plants. Plant in a very porous, moist substrate in a warm, bright environment. Keep the soil moist, but not overwatered.
• By stem cuttings: Cut a healthy section and let it heal for 1-2 days. Plant it in a dry, light potting soil; it will soon sprout roots.
• Per sheet: Some species (such as echeveria o Kalanchoe) allow you to obtain new specimens simply by placing a healthy leaf on the substrate until it takes root.
• By suckers or lateral shoots: Remove the rooted offshoots and plant them directly after letting the wound dry.
• By division: Dismantle the group of plants (for succulents growing in rosettes or mats) and separate portions with their own roots.

Using natural rooting agents can speed up the process. Always keep the substrate slightly moist (not wet) until rooting occurs, and avoid direct sunlight for the first few weeks.

Types and examples of succulents recommended for beginners

If you're looking to start with easy, decorative succulents, these species stand out for their hardiness and visual appeal:

Cactus

• Astrophytum asterias: A globular, spineless cactus with yellow flowers in spring. It tolerates light frosts.
• Echinocactus grusonii (Mother-in-law's seat): Globular when young, it grows taller later. Golden spines. Requires full sun.
• Mammillaria elongata: Compact and cylindrical, with decorative spines and spring flowers. It tolerates mild frosts.
• Pachycereus pringlei: Ideal for large spaces. It forms tall columnar stems and tolerates moderate cold.

Succulents

• Aeonium arboreum: Rosette leaves, green or reddish depending on the variety. Flowers yellow. Very hardy.
• Haworthiopsis fasciata: Fleshy, lanceolate leaves arranged in rosettes. Perfect for indoor or shady locations.
• Sedum palmeri: Hanging plant with green leaves and yellow flowers. Resistant to intense cold.
• Sempervivum tectorum: It forms compact clumps with green leaves and yellow flowers. It tolerates even severe frosts.

Advanced Tips and Tricks for Success with Your Succulents

• Avoid excess fertilizer: Less is more, too much can be harmful.
• Monitor ventilation: Well-ventilated spaces prevent fungi and diseases.
• Ensure good light: If the leaves lose color or become longer, they need more exposure.
• Never spray water on the leaves, unless you want to clean them, and always in moderation.
• Use suitable pots: Terracotta helps evaporate excess water, but any well-draining container will do.
• regular cleaning: Remove dead leaves and check the base to avoid fungal problems.
• Do not combine species with opposite requirements in the same pot., to ensure the best conditions for each one.

Having succulents means enjoying a diversity of shapes, colors and textures, with the minimum effort possible. Your adaptability and versatility This makes them an excellent option for those who want a low-maintenance garden or green space without sacrificing beauty and originality. By following this guide, your succulents will always be healthy, grow properly, and bloom to their full potential, filling your home or garden with life all year round.