Succulent Care

Succulent Care & Propagation.

The Basics.

For the core principles of potting, soil ratios, and why we don't water immediately after planting, please see the Cacti Care & Propagation guide. Most of those rules apply here too—especially the need for a gritty, free-draining mix.

Air-flow & Summer Care.

One of the biggest hurdles with succulents in New Zealand is humidity. Some varieties are particularly prone to powdery mildew during the muggy summer months.

• The Fix: This is a big reason why succulents should ideally live outside.

• The Benefit: Outdoor placement provides the natural air-flow they need to keep their leaves dry and fungal issues at bay. Plus, the extra light helps them maintain those vibrant colours and tight shapes.
  
  

When to water.

Unlike the "bone-dry" preference of many cacti, some fleshy succulents can be a bit more dramatic. They will often "tell" you when they are thirsty by showing slight wrinkles in their lower leaves. However, the rule remains: if in doubt, don't water! It is much easier to revive a thirsty succulent than a rotten one.

Propagation. 

Most succulents can be grown from a single leaf or a stem cutting.

• Leaf Cuttings: Gently wiggle a leaf off until it "snaps" cleanly. Lay it on top of damp (not wet) potting mix. In a few weeks, a tiny new plant and roots will sprout from the base of the leaf.

• Stem Cuttings: If a succulent has grown "leggy," chop the head off, let the stem dry for a couple of days, and pop it back into the soil. You’ll often find the old stump starts growing multiple new heads too!