Comprehensive Guide to Growing Succulents for Beginners

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Succulents are well-loved for their easy-to-care nature, but without the right techniques, their lifespan can be cut short. In this article, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to growing succulents professionally, helping you become a seasoned succulent grower and enjoy a lush, vibrant corner in your home.

What are Succulents?

Succulents belong to various genera and come from diverse regions around the globe. What unites these plants is their ability to survive long periods of drought with minimal water and care. Their wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors makes them popular for decorating workspaces, offices, and homes.

Types of Succulents

It’s estimated that there are about 60 families of succulents with nearly 400 species, with approximately 90% of them found in hot, equatorial regions like Mexico, South America, Australia, and Africa. Some varieties, however, thrive in colder climates, such as in Japan, Russia, and Korea, and can even be grown in Vietnam’s temperate areas like Da Lat.

In Vietnam, succulent growing has been a popular hobby for years, and the diversity of available species is vast. Common varieties for beginners include:

• Brown succulents
• Lotus succulents
• Jade succulents
• Haworthia
  These types are easy to care for and a great starting point for those new to succulent gardening.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Succulents

Preparing Succulents When First Purchased

The initial care of a newly purchased succulent is crucial for its long-term health. Follow these steps to ensure success:

1. Lighting: In the first 1-2 weeks, place the plant in a well-lit area but avoid direct, harsh sunlight. This helps acclimate the plant.
2. Watering: The roots are still recovering, so limit watering. If necessary, only water lightly around the edges of the pot to prevent root rot.
3. Soil Preparation: Use pre-mixed succulent soil or create your own by mixing soil with crushed stones in a 50-50 ratio to ensure good drainage.

Planting Succulents in Pots

If you wish to combine several succulents in one pot for a more aesthetic display, ensure the pot has drainage holes to avoid water accumulation. Here’s how to plant:

1. Fill about two-thirds of the pot with your prepared soil.
2. Place the succulent in the pot and hold it steady.
3. Add more soil to fill the pot and secure the plant.
4. Lightly spray the soil to provide moisture.

Growing Mini Succulents

For mini succulents, follow the same planting steps but choose a pot that’s proportionate to the plant’s size. Avoid overwatering as smaller plants are more sensitive to moisture levels.

Growing Succulents in Water

Though succulents naturally require little water, it is possible to grow them hydroponically. Here’s how:

1. Trim the roots and clean the base of the plant, then place it in a cool area to encourage root growth.
2. Choose a transparent container to monitor root development.
3. Fill the container with clean water, and use foam or plastic to hold the plant above the water surface, ensuring only the roots touch the water.

DIY Succulent Planters

While store-bought planters are widely available, making your own adds a personal touch. Old household items like cups, bowls, and broken mugs can be repurposed into planters. Remember to drill drainage holes in the bottom to ensure proper water flow.

Propagating Succulents from Leaves

Succulents are easy to propagate from leaves. Follow these steps:

1. Select a healthy mother plant free of pests.
2. Gently remove a mature leaf from the plant, ensuring the leaf is intact at the base.
3. Place the leaf in a cool, well-ventilated area to allow the cut to dry and prevent rot.
4. After a few days, plant the leaf in well-draining soil.
5. Mist the soil lightly, but avoid drenching the leaf itself. Within two weeks, new roots and shoots should appear.

Common Mistakes When Growing Succulents

Inadequate Lighting

Succulents thrive in sunny environments, needing 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Insufficient light can lead to slow growth and dull colors.

Overwatering

Succulents store water in their leaves, meaning too much water can cause root rot. Always let the soil dry completely between waterings.

Improper Soil Use

Succulents need well-draining soil. Fertile, moisture-rich soils trap water and can suffocate the roots.

Lack of Drainage

Always choose pots with drainage holes. Stagnant water can damage the roots and deprive the plant of oxygen.

Watering Immediately After Repotting

Wait 1-2 days after repotting before watering to allow the roots to settle.

Watering the Leaves

Watering directly onto succulent leaves can lead to mold. Focus water on the soil, not the leaves.

Watering Before the Soil is Dry

Watering while the soil is still moist can drown the plant. Ensure the soil is dry before each watering.

Underwatering

While succulents don’t need much water, too little can cause wilting and premature leaf drop. Strike a balance by watering only when necessary.

Choosing a Pot That’s Too Large

Oversized pots can cause difficulties in water control. Always match the pot size to the plant.

Overexposure to Sunlight

Though succulents love sunlight, excessive exposure, particularly in the afternoon, can cause sunburn. Place succulents in indirect light during the hottest part of the day.

Expecting to Grow Succulents from Seeds

Most succulents are propagated from leaves or cuttings, not seeds. Leaf propagation is more reliable and ensures the plant maintains its desired characteristics.

Best Soil Mix for Succulents

A well-draining soil mix is key to healthy succulent growth. A good blend consists of rice husk ash, compost, and sand or gravel for optimal drainage.

Conclusion

Growing succulents isn’t difficult if you master the basics: soil, water, and light. By following this guide, you’ll have a thriving collection of succulents in no time. Happy planting