So you’ve adopted your very own succulent plant. Congratulations! These little desert cuties are a lovely addition to any home and succulent care is notoriously easy. Succulents are great plants for beginners and green thumb gurus alike.

Now that you’ve brought your succulent home, you might be curious about the special care it needs to thrive. If you are a newer plant mom or dad, you might not have the first clue about succulent care – how much to water it, how much sunlight it needs, and what kind of container it should grow in. Don’t worry — our plant experts at Lakeside Florist in Rockwall are here to help!

With their plump leaves and resilient nature, succulents have captured the hearts of plant enthusiasts worldwide. These desert-dwelling beauties are visually appealing and remarkably easy to care for. In this guide, we’ll delve into the essential aspects of succulent care, ensuring your leafy companions thrive for years to come.

1. Sunlight: The Lifeblood of Succulents

Succulents crave sunlight, a reminder of their arid origins. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal for most species. However, newly planted succulents may be sensitive to intense sunlight, so gradually introduce them to brighter conditions. Consider a spot near a sunny window or a sheltered outdoor area.

• Succulents need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Place them near a sunny window or in an outdoor area with ample sunlight.
• Be cautious of intense, direct sunlight, especially for newly planted succulents.

2. Watering: A Delicate Balance

Succulents are masters of water conservation. Overwatering is a common pitfall for beginners, leading to root rot and other maladies. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. When you do water, soak the soil thoroughly until excess water drains from the pot’s bottom. During the dormant season (fall and winter), reduce watering frequency.

• Succulents are drought-tolerant and prefer to be underwatered rather than overwatered.
• Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
• Water deeply when you do water, ensuring the water drains out of the pot’s bottom.

3. The Perfect Pot 

A well-draining pot is crucial for succulent health. Terracotta pots are excellent choices due to their porous nature, which allows excess moisture to evaporate. Ensure your pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. For succulents with shallow root systems, a wide, shallow pot may be suitable.

• A well-draining pot is crucial for succulents.
• Opt for terracotta pots or pots with drainage holes.
• Use a cactus or succulent potting mix to provide proper drainage.

4. Soil: The Foundation for Success

A well-draining potting mix is essential for succulent care. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal, as it contains a higher proportion of perlite or sand to improve drainage. Avoid using a heavy potting mix that retains too much moisture.

• A well-draining pot is crucial for succulent care.
• Opt for terracotta pots or pots with drainage holes.
• Use a cactus or succulent potting mix to provide proper drainage.

5. Fertilizing: A Gentle Boost

Succulents have modest fertilizer needs. During the growing season (spring and summer), a diluted, balanced fertilizer can provide a gentle boost. Apply it once or twice a month, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.

• A balanced fertilizer can be beneficial during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Apply a diluted fertilizer once or twice a month.
• Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season (fall and winter).

With a little attention, succulents can thrive in your home or garden, adding a touch of natural beauty and low-maintenance charm. By providing adequate sunlight, water, soil, and occasional fertilization, you’ll ensure your leafy companions flourish for years to come. Embrace the simplicity of succulent care and discover the joy of nurturing these resilient plants.

Looking for more green companions? Lakeside Florist offers a variety of green plants and dish gardens to complement your succulent collection. Our experts can help you choose the perfect plants to suit your space and lifestyle.