How to care for succulents indoors?

Succulents have quickly become the darling of modern families with their cute appearance, tenacious vitality and low maintenance requirements. They are not only green decorations, but also bring a touch of tranquility and nature. Many people like to grow this kind of plants. So how to grow succulents indoors? Let’s take a look below.

1. Light: Let your succulents get sunlight every day

What succulents love most is sunlight. They are like small solar panels and need sufficient light to grow healthily. At home, a south-facing windowsill is an ideal home for them.

Lighting tips:

Daylight hours: At least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If your home does not have adequate lighting conditions, consider supplementing it with full-spectrum grow lights.

Rotate the potted plants: Rotate the pot every few days to allow each leaf to receive sunlight evenly and prevent the plant from growing crooked.

2. Watering: Better dry than wet, master the rhythm

When watering succulents, it’s important to “water less but better”. Their leaves are like small reservoirs that can store large amounts of water, so overwatering can cause their roots to rot.

Watering tips:

Check the soil: Insert your finger 2-3 cm into the soil and water only when it feels dry.

Watering amount: Water thoroughly at one time until the water flows out from the bottom of the pot, then wait for the soil to dry completely.

Seasonal adjustment: Winter is the dormant period for succulents. At this time, the frequency of watering should be reduced, or even not watered.

3. Soil: Breathability and drainage are key

Succulents do not have high requirements for soil, but they need loose, breathable and well-drained soil. You can purchase specialized soil for succulents, or make your own.

Soil recipe:

Standard ratio: 1 part peat soil + 1 part garden soil + 1 part river sand.

Homemade recipe: 2 parts coconut peat + 1 part perlite + 1 part vermiculite.

4. Fertilization: Apply fertilizer in appropriate amount to promote growth

Succulents do not require much fertilizer , but appropriate amount of fertilizer can promote their growth and reproduction. It is recommended to use a specialized succulent fertilizer or a diluted general-purpose liquid fertilizer.

Fertilization tips:

Fertilization frequency: once a month during the growing season (spring and summer), stop fertilizing during the dormant period (autumn and winter).

Fertilizer concentration: Fertilizer should be diluted to half of the recommended concentration to avoid root burn.

5. Pest and disease management: prevent problems before they occur

Although succulents are relatively resistant to diseases and pests, some common problems still require attention.

Common problems and solutions:

Scale insects: Wipe the infected area with an alcohol swab, or use a special insecticide .

Leaf spot: Reduce watering, improve aeration, and use a suitable fungicide .

Root rot: Check if the roots are too wet. If you find a problem, replace the soil and reduce the frequency of watering.

Although succulents are easy to care for, they still require our careful treatment. With the basics of lighting, watering, soil, fertilization, and pest management, you can keep them thriving indoors.