Spring’s 6 Steps for Succulent Care
by Lynn KirkFeb 2, 2022
As temperatures start to warm up, some perennial succulents start to pop up. That’s when gardeners need to spring into action with Spring’s 6 steps for succulent care.
1. CLEAN CLUTTER and REMOVE ROT. Cold-hardy outdoor succulents are hampered—and sometimes hidden—by winter’s leftover leaves and debris. That’s why removing any rot-making matter and extra winter-warming mulch comes first in Spring. Both tend to keep the ground soggy, and no succulents like 'wet feet;' Prolonged waterlogging can cause succulent roots to rot. Wet conditions can also attract pests, like unwelcomed rodents or unwanted insects. So be proactive and keep succulents safely dry by thoroughly cleaning up outdoor garden beds before the temperature rises and the spring growth surges. Remember: A clean garden bed is the beginning of a healthy garden bed!
2. REPOT OR NOT? Another of spring’s 6 steps for succulent care is deciding whether to repot container succulents. Unlike most houseplants, potted succulents don’t necessarily need bigger pots, even when they appear to be a bit crowded. A rule of thumb is to repot every four years or so. However, don’t wait that long to check the soil. If repotting time is now, or the planter just needs a topping off of soil, opt for blends that contain perlite or sand to support proper drainage. REMEMBER: The best succulent containers not only look good; they drain well. It’s safe to say that this is one time when ‘pot holes’ are a good thing!
3. INSPECT FOR INSECTS. Succulents tend not attract as many insects as other household plants, but never assume your plants are immune. Insects look for plants over-winter them and house their spring colonies. Somehow, some way, insects even find their way into offices and homes, too. So start a spring habit that continues during growing season. Thoroughly check the tops and undersides of the succulents' leaves, as well as the joints where the stems and the main plants meet. Examine the roots, too. Early and consistent inspections are important since without intervention, a few insects can morph into a few hundred in no time at all. REMEMBER: An organic pesticide applied early might save not only your infected plants; it might save all your plants!
4. FEED WITH FERTILIZER. Sprinkle a mild phosphorus-based fertilizer around the plants' roots to support strong growth. This practice will encourage bigger-and-better blooms later on, too. But note that this is not a year-round task. Gardeners should reduce succulent fertilization in late summer (unless it's a summer-dormant succulent, so get to know your plants and their specific needs). REMEMBER: A few nutrients go a long way when it comes to succulents originating in regions with less-than-ideal soil. In this case, more fertilizer is not more preferable!
5. COMPLETE COLLECTIONS. What’s next for spring’s six steps to succulent care? Browse options for more! It’s easy to know which beauties you want (and need) once you see the themed collections and vibrant-colored photos at www.SucculentMarket.com. Ordering is as easy as the click of the mouse, and protected plants are delivered in good shape, as well as great health. Whether you want to focus on quirky cacti and kalanchoes, or alluring aloes and aeoniums, Succulent Market serves up more than 100 varieties to complement your collection. REMEMBER: Assorted cuttings can be purchased in bulk, too!
6. SHARE SUCCULENTS. Spring holidays are some of the best days to share potted plants. After all, they are hand-nurtured gifts that keep on growing! So plan ahead and prepare potted succulents or themed dish gardens for gifting on Easter and Mother’s Day. They'll double as meaningful mementoes, as well as subtle invitations to share your hobby. REMEMBER: Hardy, hard-to-kill succulents are perfect gifts for the novice gardener, as long as you teach them about the plants' minimal water needs!
Spring’s 6 tips for succulent care are brought to you by Succulent Market: California's three-generation family of growers who own and operate acres of greenhouses for domestic plant production. Watch for our future succulent-themed blogs on summer care, propagation, pruning, and more!