Succulents

Succulent 

Minimalism Care Guide

Succulents are the kings and queens of easy living. They thrive on neglect and good lighting. Your job is simple: Provide maximum sun and minimum water. Follow these minimalist rules for maximum health.

 The Sun Standard (Lighting)

Succulents are desert natives. They don't just tolerate bright light—they demand it.

• The Rule: Aim for at least 6 hours of bright light daily. A south-facing window is ideal. Without enough sun, your succulent will stretch and look sickly (a condition called etiolation).

• The Transition: If you move your plant to a brighter spot, do it slowly over a week to prevent the leaves from getting sunburned.

• The Sign: Healthy succulents are compact, colorful, and stand up straight.

 The Calculated Drought (Watering)

This is the number one area where succulent owners fail. Overwatering is fatal; underwatering is rarely an issue.

• The Technique (The "Drench & Drought"): Wait until the soil is entirely bone-dry and the plant shows the first signs of thirst (leaves look slightly less plump or begin to wrinkle).

• The Soak: When you water, soak the plant thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage hole.

• The Schedule: Depending on your environment, this could be once every 2-4 weeks in summer and once a month or less in winter. When in doubt, wait one more week!

 The Great Escape (Soil & Pot)

Succulent roots must breathe, meaning water needs to exit the pot as quickly as it enters.

• The Foundation: Use a specialized Cactus and Succulent Soil Mix. For best results, mix in extra grit like perlite, pumice, or gravel to ensure superior drainage.

• The Vessel: Terracotta pots are your best friend. Their porous nature wicks excess moisture away from the soil, preventing root rot. Always ensure the pot has a drainage hole.

 The Annual Toast (Feeding)

Succulents are not heavy feeders; they are low-maintenance survivors.

• The Rule: Fertilize only once or twice a year during the active growing season (Spring and early Summer).

• The Mix: Use a fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents and cacti, diluted to half-strength to avoid root burn. Skip feeding entirely during Fall and Winter dormancy.

 The Occasional Refresh (Maintenance)

• Dead Leaves: Succulents naturally absorb and shed their lowest leaves. Gently remove these dead, crispy leaves from the base of the plant. This helps prevent pests from taking up residence.

• Pests: The most common pest is the white, cottony mealybug. If you spot one, immediately wipe it away with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.