There are many myths surrounding succulents—each individual with a green thumb has a unique take on these gorgeous pulpy plants and their sustenance. It is believed that succulents are hardy and low-maintenance. However, caring for them may not be as simple as you think.
As an ardent succulent grower, you should research to be able to sift facts from fiction because some myths sound ridiculous. Of all the plant species, succulents likely have the most number of myths associated with them.
To avoid the demise of your luscious babies in the future, we are here to help you debunk some common myths. While there may be some elements of truth in them, most of them have become so far-fetched that one cannot tell the difference anymore. If you love growing succulents and have allowed some of these myths to fool you, we are here to help you understand your plushy plants better.
Here’s the truth, succulents hate the dark. They require plenty of bright light to thrive. Even if your home receives abundant sunlight, it is still not as bright as the outdoors. In dark nooks of your room, the health of your gorgeous succulents will zap; they will likely become weak and their stalks will elongate, searching for light. This elongation of stems indicates that your succulent is desperate for sunlight.
Succulents are typically identified as tough plants, an excellent option for novice gardeners with black thumbs. This may be due to their trouble-free needs or structural appearance—which convinces people to believe these fleshy plants are easy to grow and can survive harsh conditions.
Unfortunately, only experienced succulent growers know this is completely false. You would be surprised to know that succulents perish very easily. Subjecting them to an improper environment or care will obliterate their health, eventually causing their demise.
Succulents can survive a long dry spell compared to other garden or indoor plants, but they require water to thrive. If you skip their watering routine for long periods, it will likely induce stress in them, stunting their growth and making them more vulnerable to various diseases and pests.
Note: Allow the soil to completely dry between consecutive watering sessions, but don’t skip watering altogether. If you notice stunted growth or shrivelled leaves, your succulent is parched.
Pruning is an indispensable grooming and care activity for plants—both outdoor and indoor varieties. It improves growth, and shape and eliminates damaged areas that might slow down growth. Despite numerous benefits, many succulent growers believe these luscious plants don’t need pruning. Succulents may not require frequent pruning but they still need it to grow. So, when you spot damaged areas, grab your shears, and trim them to boost overall plant health.
By nomenclature standards, ‘succulent’ is not a scientific classification—it is a generic label used to denote plants that can accumulate water in their leaves. This group constitutes numerous plant families and different genera.
Cacti refers to plants belonging to the Cactaceae family. They are known for their exceptional water-storing abilities – therefore, linked to succulents. But these two terms denote distinct things.
In simple words, not all succulents are cacti but all cacti are succulents. Plants belonging to the Cactaceae family are termed succulents because they store water, but many succulents do not belong to the cactus group.
Succulents can tolerate many adversities, but unsuitable soil is not one of them. They require well-draining and airy soil to thrive. You can find specialised succulent soil mixes at local nurseries. These soil formulas combine many gritty ingredients and nutrients that improve drainage and allow air to penetrate. Succulent cannot thrive in nutrient-poor soil, so be mindful of what potting mix you are using.
If your succulents are perishing, remember that they are temperamental plants and need extensive care to grow.
