skip to content
Eden Succulents
Learn How to Make A Succulent Bonsai

Learn How to Make A Succulent Bonsai

by | May 8, 2020 | Decorating Ideas, How-To's & Tips

Succulents are fascinatingly diverse in form. You can see towering succulent trees in the wild, as well as stone-like varieties that don’t grow to over an inch. Many succulents such as echeveria, kalanchoe, aloe, and sedum have become staples in most American homes.

Nowadays, there’s a growing interest in making bonsai succulents. It’s a rather uncommon combination, but bonsai succulents can be an exciting addition to your plant collection. So, if you’re looking for something new to try with your succulents, try applying bonsai techniques to your plants.

What is Bonsai?

Learn How to Make A Succulent Bonsai
It is relatively easy to recognize a bonsai plant when you see one. They look like miniature trees and are visually appealing. Bonsai is an ancient Japanese style of gardening that dates to more than a thousand years ago. The technique stemmed from the Japanese people’s deep appreciation for nature and their desire to convey the beauty and power of the vast landscapes to restricted domestic spaces.

The Japanese term bonsai means “to plant in a tray,” and that’s what bonsai practitioners precisely do. They recreate the shape and appearance of mature plants on a smaller scale. The typical bonsai plants are cultivated and pruned to maintain their miniature size and are shaped until they look like tiny versions of mature plants. The height of bonsai trees typically ranges from 6 inches to 4 feet.

What Makes Succulents Ideal for Bonsai?

If the common bonsai plants do not appeal to you, the good news is that succulents make ideal subjects for bonsai. There are several reasons why succulents are great for bonsai. Succulents are native to the arid regions with tropical and semitropical climates. Harsh conditions like growing in rocky soil, enduring unforgiving winds, inconsistent water supply, erratic daily temperature, grazing animals, exposure to full sun, makes them naturally small or dwarf-like.

The morphological features of succulents also make them ideal for bonsai. Their fleshy leaves, swollen stems, and thick bases enable them to store excess water for use during drought. Succulents are very appealing to bonsai lovers because of their exciting colors, varying textures, and dramatic leaf shapes.

Moreover, succulents adjust well to trimming and shaping, so you don’t have to worry about hurting your plants. You can even use the cuttings to propagate your succulents.

Succulents are relatively easy to care for, allowing you to maintain your new bonsai hobby despite your busy schedule. Because of the slow-growing feature of succulents, you will have plenty of time to plan out its shape and overall look.

Unlike most plants used for bonsai, succulents don’t need to have their roots trimmed and will do better when you leave their roots alone. Succulents usually grow in shallow containers, so there is little need for root trimming.

How to Make A Succulent Bonsai

How to Make A Succulent Bonsai
There are about 10,000 species of succulents in total and over 60 different plant families. The variety of forms offers bonsai lovers a wide range of exciting options. When choosing the right plant for making succulent bonsai, look for a type that is healthy, well-established, and has small spaces between the stems and leaves. It should also have small leaves, is slow-growing, and has a long lifespan. The plant must be able to grow in a confined container.

Succulents with thicker foliage will allow more comfortable trimming without the risk of making your plants look thin and sparse. Other desirable features to look for are foliage texture, branch formation, unique habits, flowers, and fruits. Most importantly, choose a succulent that recovers well after a transplant and produces new growth after pruning.

Pruning

Make sure to adhere to established bonsai recommendations when pruning your succulents to encourage Y-shaped branching and small, proportionate spaces between the stems and leaves. Pruning may prevent your plants from flowering in the following season, or until it has produced new growth.

Pruning the roots of succulents is generally not recommended. Their roots become less healthy after pruning, so it’s better to leave them as is. If you need to trim the roots for aesthetic purposes, remove all soil, and wait for the wounds to be completely dry before you replant. Moist on your succulents will cause it to rot, and significant cuts will need several weeks to heal.

Potting

Plant your bonsai in pots with drainage holes because, like most succulents, bonsai plants need a container that allows for adequate drainage. Cover drainage holes with non-clogging mesh pads or pot screens to prevent soil corrosion during watering.

Avoid planting succulents with different species in the same container because they may have different growing requirements.

Potting
Trimming

When you trim your bonsai succulents into its new shape, imagine how you want your finished product to look like. Have an ideal image in mind, so you have a clear idea of which stems and leaves to trim off. Trim your succulents before their growing season. If your plant grows through the summer, start shaping it in the spring, and continue to do so as it grows more leaves.

Wiring

Your bonsai will continue producing leaves as it grows, so you will need to trim it to maintain your desired shape. However, your plant will struggle to stay upright once you’ve cut its lower leaves and branches. Help it stay upright by supporting it with aluminum wire. We recommend using these aluminum wires instead of copper because aluminum is more pliable for shaping, and the material is strong enough to support your succulents.

How to Care for Succulent Bonsai

Caring for succulent bonsai requires an understanding of their natural habitat, which varies from species to species. In general, succulents thrive in warm and well-lit environments. We recommend taking them indoors when the temperature drops below 50°F.

Succulents should have compact growth. Elongation of their stems and internodes are signs that they are not getting enough sunlight.

Overwatering plants are one of the most common reasons why succulents die. When watering succulents, drench it until water comes out of the drainage holes, then wait until the soil completely dries up before you water again. Cut back on watering during your succulent’s dormancy period. Do not water your succulent bonsai after repotting as it will cause root rotting.

Plant your succulent bonsai in fast-draining soil. Ideally, the soil should be a mix of aggregate, organic materials, and cinder for proper drainage and aeration. Fertilize it more often with smaller doses to promote slow and even growth. Do not fertilize your succulents when they are dormant.

Succulent Varieties that Make for Ideal Bonsai

Succulent Varieties that Make for Ideal Bonsai
Sedum, Crassula Ovata, and Euphorbia Milii are among the best varieties that are perfect for beginner succulent bonsai growers. Still, there are several other species that may require expertise in bonsai handling.

Making succulent bonsai can be a rewarding hobby, and the products can increase the aesthetic value of your garden. Make sure to refer to this guide when you start making your succulent bonsai to avoid harming your succulents in the process. If you have any questions about making succulent bonsai, please let us know in the comment box below.

Eden Succulents strives to bring you comprehensive information about succulents. Please check the links we provided for the products that will help you enjoy growing and caring for your succulents.

Uncle Daves Pot Screens

Uncle Daves Pot Screens

  • Keep Your Soil In & The Bad Bugs Out!
  • One Size Fits All Pots & Planters!
Check It Out
Anodized Aluminum Bonsai Training Wire

Anodized Aluminum Bonsai Training Wire

EASY TO BEND: Anodized aluminum training wire is easier to bend than copper yet still very strong, making it better for beginner bonsai trainers and convenient for experienced bonsai artists.
Check It Out
A Guide to Dark-Colored Flowering Succulent Plants

A Guide to Dark-Colored Flowering Succulent Plants

by | May 4, 2020 | Growing Succulents, How-To's & Tips

The most common succulents in American households have green, fleshy leaves. Having these beautiful green plants around us have proven positive effects on our physical and mental health. But some green succulents fascinatingly change colors, especially when exposed to full sun.
Dark-colored succulents can effortlessly add contrast and character to any garden because of their hue, especially when they bloom. In this article, we’ll tell you how and why some succulents get their dark colors, and we’ll also share some tips on how to care for these unique succulent varieties.

Why Do Succulents Change Colors?

Succulents turn dark in color as a response to the extreme conditions in their environment. Below are the common conditions that cause some plants to become dark-colored:

  • Excessive exposure to full sun
  • Extreme temperature
  • Underwatering
  • Underfed or under fertilized
  • Poor soil

The conditions mentioned above cause stress to your succulents. The change in color is a reaction to the extremes in the environment.

Many types of succulents are native to arid regions, while some come from mountains, rainforests, and sea coasts. Their natural habitats explain why they grow even more beautiful when exposed to a stressful environment.

While succulents naturally grow in desert conditions, most plants will not stand a chance. The natural habitat of succulents is too rigid for other plants to survive. Because of this, succulents are very resilient and can thrive even in the most extreme environment. So, when your succulents experience stress during cultivation, it’s almost like they’re back to their natural habitat.

These conditions do not harm the plants because they were made to live under these conditions. Succulents possess qualities that will make them survive and flourish in these environments.

Succulents change colors because of their natural pigments called anthocyanins and carotenoids. These pigments are also found in fruits that are high in antioxidants like blueberries, plums, and raisins and vegetables like eggplant and purple cabbage. These pigments that provide us antioxidants through fruits are also found in plants and are responsible for giving protection from the environment. It’s a built-in mechanism in plants that protect it from extreme heat and drought.

Why Do Succulents Change Colors?

What Causes Stress to Succulents?

It’s essential to note that not all stress is good for your succulents. When your plants change color while maintaining their original leaf shape and feature, then there’s no need for you to worry. However, when your succulents look disfigured, distorted, or generally unwell, it might be under bad stress.

Identifying the type of succulent you have will help you determine the kind of stress affecting your plants. Some succulents naturally get reddish colors on the tip of their leaves when they are overexposed to the sun. The plant copes with the extreme heat by producing carotenoids, a red pigment that helps protect the plant from sunburn. We call this environmental condition good stress because the plant is not damaged but becomes more beautiful and colorful instead.

But if you see reddish tints on your succulent leaves and stems, it can also be a sign of pest infestation. Spider mites usually leave red marks on the plant that they infest. The leaves of an infested succulent will also appear distorted. This condition is considered bad stress because it harms the plant, and there is a need for you to intervene to save the plant.

Some succulent varieties turn a stunning shade of dark purple or black when under good stress. However, if your plants become black, starting from its roots to its leaves, and the leaves begin to fall off, you should act immediately to save your plant from harmful stress. The roots of your plant are likely rotting, and if you don’t move fast enough, the stem and the leaves will also turn black, and you will lose your treasured succulent.

What Succulents Change Colors?

Not all succulents change colors because of stress. Some varieties stay naturally green no matter where you place them. The changing color of plants depends on their natural pigmentation. The “Elephant Bush” is a popular succulent that retains its green color all year long, no matter the climate and growing condition. The shade of green will vary a little depending on light exposure, but it’s green just the same.

It’s not very difficult to know the kind of succulent you have to determine whether their change in color is due to good stress or bad stress.

Here is a list of the most common dark-colored succulents that you can add to your growing collection. All of these are flowering succulents, and they can surely add pizazz to your garden.

Aeonium Black Rose

Aeonium Black Rose

Among all succulent varieties, the Aeonium Arboreum ‘Zwartkop’ (Aeonium Black Rose) is probably one of the most stunning. It has large rosettes with deep purple to almost black leaves. The plant can grow to nearly three feet tall, and the rosettes can reach up to eight inches in diameter. It’s tall and branches out in clumps. When planted outdoors, the Aeonium Arboreum will spread and grow into a bush.

The Aeonium Arboreum is native to North Africa. It grows in the winter and goes dormant in summer. Plant this succulent in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. You can try this succulent soil from Sprig & Stone, which allows air circulation around roots.

Aeonium Arboreum requires proper watering techniques to grow. They will thrive in full or partial sun, and the leaves will have a deeper color as the plant receives more light. They are not cold hardy plants, so make sure to bring them indoors during winter.

Aeonium Arboreum is monocarpic, but it takes several years before it blooms and produces beautiful yellow flowers. These succulents can be propagated through stem cuttings. Use a clean, sharp knife or pair of scissors to remove the stem from the main plant and allow it to dry for a few days before you plant it.

Echeveria Black Prince

This black succulent boasts of symmetrical rosette pattern that Echeverias are famous for. They are petite and grows to only about three inches in diameter. It has broad, triangular leaves that grow from green to deep-brown black as the plant ages and receive more sun.

In late autumn to early winter, a green stalk emerges at the center of its rosette, where red flowers will appear. The color of the flower gives an exciting contrast to the color of the leaves. Black Prince requires partial sun, soak-dry watering technique, and well-draining soil. They cannot survive in a cold climate.

Echeveria Black Prince

Black Prince grows in clusters. It produces offshoots that can be removed and planted in pots or outdoors as a groundcover. It can also be propagated by taking a healthy leaf from your plant and laying it on a well-draining soil once dry. Because of its size, Black Prince can make for a perfect addition to your fairy garden.

Get your first Echeveria Black Prince here.

Echeveria Black Knight

The Black Knight has fleshy leaves that are arranged in a rosette form. Vibrant green leaves grow at the center of the plant and become deep-purplish black as they grow.

In late summer to early fall, thin lime green stems emerge from the center of its rosette. Bright red flowers grow from these stems, which provides a stark contrast against the dark color of the leaves.

The Black Knight is native to Canada and Mexico, so they cannot survive the cold climates. It’s best to take them indoors during winter. They also require partial sun and infrequent watering. Avoid making it sit too long on moist water as it can cause the roots to rot.

Be careful not to put it in a too-small container to avoid suppressing the roots. Large pots will also allow water to sit in, so choose a container that will fit the size of your succulent perfectly. Choose a suitable-sized container like this to make sure your Black Prince grows well.

Black Prince can be propagated from the leaf or stem cuttings, and its seeds.

Chinese Jade

Sinocrassula yunnanensis, also known as Chinese Jade, is a small succulent with leaves arranged in a rosette pattern. The leaves are covered in short, fine hairs and are flat on one side and rounded on the other.

Chinese Jade grows best in partial sun and well-draining soil. Make sure that the soil has completely dried out before you water it again to avoid root rot.

Chinese Jade is a unique monocarpic succulent. The rosettes produce long stems where tiny white flowers emerge. When the flowers bloom, the rosettes die, and the offshoots then take the place of the mother plant. They can also be propagated through leaf cuttings.

You can get this unique dark-colored flowering succulent here.

Chinese Jade
These dark-colored succulents are sure to stand out in any garden. They add a special touch of drama in any setting. So, if you’re looking to add an appealing hue to your garden, try growing these dark-colored flowering succulents.

We at Eden Succulents strive to give you only the best information about succulents. To make sure that you care for your dark-colored succulents properly and get the best out of them, please check the products we recommended above. They will make growing and caring for your succulents a blissful experience.

Josh's Frogs Succulent Soil

Josh's Frogs Succulent Soil

  • Use for HEALTHY succulents and cactus
  • Allows water to drain quickly to PREVENT ROOT ROT
  • Allows AIR CIRCULATION around roots
Check It Out
Modern Cement Cactus Flower Aloe Snake Plant Planter Container

Modern Cement Cactus Flower Aloe Snake Plant Planter Container

White 5 inch garden pots are perfect for your succulents and cactus, snake plant, aloe, herbs and other flower plants. Plants are NOT included
Check It Out
Echeveria Black Prince Succulent

Echeveria Black Prince Succulent

Check It Out
Live Fat Succulent Plant Mini Succulents (Sinocrassula yunnanensis)

Live Fat Succulent Plant Mini Succulents (Sinocrassula yunnanensis)

{PACKAGE INCLUDE}: Two bare root plants included; No flowerpot included.
Check It Out
Caring for Houseleeks, A Common Succulent with Flowers

Caring for Houseleeks, A Common Succulent with Flowers

by | May 1, 2020 | Caring For Succulents, How-To's & Tips

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance succulent that is easy to propagate, Sempervivum tectorum, commonly known as houseleeks, is the best option for you. You can plant them in container gardens along with other succulents and the outdoors as ground cover. They grow in little soil and can survive the cold months. They’re very tolerant of the common problems that kill your other succulent varieties.

Eternal Plants

Houseleeks are members of the group of Sempervivum of the family Crassulaceae. Sempervivum comes from the Latin words Semper and vivus meaning “forever living”. The common name houseleek is believed to have originated from the traditional practice of growing these plants on the roof of houses to deflect lightning and protect the home dwellers from the storm and other evil things.

This idea was inspired by the Roman god Jupiter, who regarded the plant as sacred. Now, people sometimes grow houseleeks on their roofs for added warmth and to prevent their thatched roofs from quickly burning. You can find many of this variety being sold all over the USA and Canada.

These succulents are sometimes referred to as hen and chicks, which may be due to the way these succulents produce their offsets. The rosettes (hen) will produce offshoots (chicks), and when left alone, they will gradually spread into extensive mats.

Houseleeks are generally outdoor succulents that thrive in cold months, but they are incredibly resilient, so they can also survive indoors in warmer temperatures. They resemble unfurled roses and come in a variety of form, texture, and colour. Their leaves have light pink to red-purple hues. They are low-growing, but some mature plants may bloom in the summer.

Blooms

The flowers of houseleeks usually bloom in the long and bright warm days of summer. The star-like, tiny flowers grow in clusters and come in red, pink, white, and yellow, with erect stamens. The flowers are said to resemble the beard of the Roman god, Jupiter.

When houseleeks are ready to produce flowers, the rosettes will begin to elongate vertically, making them look different from their typical low-growing stature. The flower stalks can grow from a few inches to a foot tall.

A flowering houseleek can be a bittersweet scenario for some growers, as it signals the end of the plant’s life cycle. Houseleeks are monocarpic succulents, which means they die after flowering and producing seeds. The seeds that the flowers produce will grow into new rosettes and fill in the place of its parent plant. Houseleeks usually live for three years before flowering, so you have a long time to enjoy your plant before it dies.

Blooms

The flowers of houseleeks don’t need extra care. In fact, it will be best to leave them alone until they fully bloom, wither, and die. Once the flowers have dried out, clip it off the stem using this pruning shears instead of pulling them out so you can avoid accidentally yanking the offshoots out. You can also let nature take its course and allow the dying stem to break off and compost in the soil.

Nothing can be done to prevent houseleeks from producing flowers, not even cutting off its budding stem. So, enjoy your flowering succulents while they last, and welcome the smaller rosettes that will soon replace the parent plants.

Health Benefits

The use of houseleeks as herbal medicine dates back to ancient times. Houseleek has anti-inflammatory properties, and modern medicine confirms that it contains flavonoids, carbohydrates, and essential acids that are beneficial to human health.

Houseleeks are also known to treat skin problems. Using houseleek on the skin is similar to using aloe vera, and is considered as a safe, natural remedy because it almost doesn’t have any side effects. Juice the leaves of the plant and apply it on the affected skin. Houseleeks can treat burns, insect bites, frostbite, redness, swelling, scratches, wounds, and other skin inflammations.

Since the time of our ancestors, houseleeks have been used to treat ear infection and repair hearing loss and damages. Huge buildup of earwax can cause an ear infection. While the function of earwax is to protect the ear canal from diseases and assist in lubricating the ears, excessive accumulation can press against the eardrum and lead to hearing loss. The juice from houseleek can dissolve cerumen and relieve ear pain. Squeeze out some juice from the leaves of the plant and put a few drops in your ear.

The juice of houseleek is proven to contain polysaccharides and other antibacterial ingredients that protect the immune system. Freshly-squeezed juice from houseleeks is effective in curing disorder in the nervous system, unrealistic fears, and falling sickness. The juice is also useful in removing warts, lightening sun spots, relieving insect bites, and treating open wounds.

Mixing honey and houseleek juice makes it an effective cure for soreness, mouth ulcer, and bronchitis. Mixing the juice with honey and warm water will also help in bringing down a fever.

Health Benefits
Apart from the benefits you get from drinking houseleek juice, drinking houseleek tea is also useful in providing relief from ulcer and menstrual cramps. Follow these simple steps in making a houseleek tea:
  • Add 12 grams of fresh leaves into four litres of water
  • Cook for 15 minutes
  • Strain and leave to cool down
Drink one cup of tea every morning before breakfast, then drink one tablespoon of tea every hour, but the dosage still depends on a person’s age and health condition. Do not take houseleek when pregnant or breastfeeding.

How to Care for a Houseleek

Houseleeks are easy to care for, so they are the perfect succulents to grow for beginners.

Watering

Houseleeks are perfect to plant in rocky soils. They are drought-tolerant, so they don’t require much water. Once they’re established, wait for the soil to dry out before you water your plants. If the temperature is hot where you live, you may need to water your houseleeks more frequently. Increase watering in summer, and refrain from watering in the colder months.

Temperature

For houseleeks to survive, they need an environment with a temperature ranging from 65 and 75 degrees F, but they are cold hardy so they can withstand temperatures as low as -30F. However, they go dormant during winter months and resume growing in spring. If you need to take them inside your home or office, make sure they get adequate light by placing them near a bright window.

Fertilizing

Houseleeks can grow well in poor soil, so there’s little need for fertilizer. However, if your plant is in a container, they might require some fertilizing. Fertilize your houseleeks during the growing season using a diluted liquid fertilizer, like this succulent plant food.

Common Problems

Miracle-Gro Liquid Succulent Plant Food

As mentioned earlier, houseleeks are very resilient succulents. They are generally resistant to plant diseases. The most common problem to growing houseleeks arises from poor handling.

Overwatering is probably one of the top problems you’ll encounter with your houseleeks. Too much water can cause the leaves to droop. Houseleeks are also prone to root rot and fungus, especially during the colder months. It’s therefore essential for your plants to have proper drainage and be planted in fast-draining soil. We recommend this organic succulent soil from Hoffman. It provides the drainage that your houseleeks need to thrive. Make sure to water your houseleeks when the soil is completely dried up.

Do not expose your houseleek to full sun to avoid sunburn. Move them to the shade to protect them from the afternoon sun, especially during the summer.

Houseleeks are not very prone to insect diseases, but they can attract larger critters in the spring — no need to worry though, as the damaged foliage will grow back on their own.

Houseleeks don’t need much of your effort and attention. They thrive on neglect. They’re easy to care for, even when it’s your first time to grow succulents.

If you’re planning to grow your houseleeks, make sure to check the links of the products we have recommended. They will come in handy when you start growing your plants. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, don’t worry! With the information we gave above, we’re sure you’ll do a great job taking care of your houseleeks.

TABOR TOOLS Pruning Shears

TABOR TOOLS Pruning Shears

LONG REACH. The TABOR TOOLS K-7 pruning snips are very light and razor-sharp floral shears with a long blade, especially designed for picking flowers, and herbs, and deadheading. The pointed, thin blades ensure that you can reach even the tightest spaces, like stems inside bundles. The K-7 is not suitable for cutting hard (woody) stems.
Check It Out
Miracle-Gro Liquid Succulent Plant Food

Miracle-Gro Liquid Succulent Plant Food

  • Instantly feeds succulent plants, including cacti
  • For all cacti, jade, aloe and other popular succulents
  • Feeds instantly
  • Able to apply directly to the soil or can mix with water
Check It Out
Hoffman 10404 Organic Cactus and Succulent Soil Mix

Hoffman 10404 Organic Cactus and Succulent Soil Mix

  • Organic cactus and succulent soil mix
  • Professionally formulated for use with both jungle and desert cacti
  • Provides the drainage cacti need to flourish; ready to use; pH balanced
Check It Out
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Propagating Succulents

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Propagating Succulents

by | Apr 27, 2020 | Growing Succulents, Tips For Growing Succulents

Growing and caring for succulents has been a popular trend nowadays. A lot of plant cultivators have started growing succulents with the idea of possibly propagating them. If you are searching for a place to help you how to propagate succulents, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will be discussing the common mistakes to avoid when propagating succulents. Continue to read below if you want to find out more information.

If you love to propagating succulent plants, you must know that not all the time you can be successful with propagating your succulents plants, sometimes mistakes occur, so don’t be disheartened and disappointed. Keep on planting and propagating your succulents. Check out the information below so you will avoid the mistakes and be successful in propagating your succulents.

Here is the list of the common mistakes that occur when propagating succulents:

Mistake #1

Overwatering – When propagating succulents, you must watch avoid overwatering your succulents. Succulents can become squishy and may turn yellow if you overwater them. You will not be able to make your succulents propagate faster if you keep watering them; it can only cause rot or worse, kill the plant. You must wait for the succulents to form roots before you start watering them.

Too much watering can often do more harm than good to your succulents for propagation. If you will do soil propagation, you can mist the soil lightly daily only when the roots have already appeared. If you are planning to do air propagation, you can allow the parent leaf to develop its leaves before you water them. Too much water can cause rotting of the parent leaf and the baby succulent can die off as well.

You can use a gardening syringe so you can control the amount of water when watering the baby succulents.

Mistake #2

Incorrect amount of light – When propagating succulents, one of the most common mistakes that can occur is when there is too much bright light or not enough light. If you want your plant to properly propagate, you must place it in a moderate amount of light.

If you place your succulent in an area with bright light, this can cause the roots to become thin, turn dark red, which means the roots are burning. If the roots are pink, it means the succulent is growing properly. The new roots of the newly propagated succulent are very prone to burning if there is too much light. You must do your best to keep them safe and allow the roots to grow long so they can be buried in the soil and protected from too much sunlight, so be patient and wait until the succulent roots grow into the soil and place them in an area with moderate light.

When the propagated succulent has rooted and is growing well, you have to check the amount of light so the succulents can grow properly and avoid stretching or etiolating. When the succulent is stretching, you might think that it is growing fast, but in reality, it is not properly growing. Healthy succulents grow out and do not become stretchy. When the succulents are stretching that means they need more light.

Intense sunlight can burn your plant, succulent leaf propagation does not need too much sunlight. Just place the leaf for propagation in an airy and bright place. Baby succulents will not survive in too much heat or extreme direct sunlight. Always remember, if the baby succulents do not grow close to the leaf that means your succulent needs more light to grow.

When growing succulents indoors, you may use grow lights like this.

Grow lights are perfect for growing succulents indoors, they offer bright light but do not burn succulents. Just remember to not place your plants too close to the grow lights.

Grow lights are perfect for growing succulents indoors

Mistake #3

Choosing the parent leaf – When propagating the succulent, you must choose a parent leaf that you will use. You must water the succulent that you have chosen to propagate a few days before you remove the parent leaf. It is very important that you do this step correctly as the leaf that you will pull off the succulent plant is where the baby succulent will grow from. Each leaf that you pull off must be filled with water and nutrients.

You can choose small leaves, but it may take longer; the succulent that grows can be much smaller than when you choose to propagate from a bigger leaf. The leaf that will be chosen is filled with water and nutrients that the baby succulent will use to grow accordingly.

The leaves that will be chosen for propagation must be plump, thick, fleshy, and healthy. This means there are lots of nutrients and water inside it, which helps your baby succulent grow properly and healthily. This will increase the growth rate success of your succulents during propagation.

Avoid these types of leaves when propagating your succulents:

  • Small or young leaves – Small leaves can be used for propagation but it can take a while to grow succulent babies. Small leaves do not have enough water and nutrients that can be used to support new succulent plants.
  • Broken leaves – Baby succulents will not grow unless the parent leaf that you will use to propagate new ones is properly or cleanly removed from the mother plant.
  • Withered or dried leaves
  • Overwatered leaves
Avoid these types of leaves when propagating your succulents

You must choose the ideal leaves to propagate new succulents. Those are the leaves that are found in the bottom part of the plants, these are the plump and mature leaves.

When propagating succulents, you must have in mind that you will not always get a one hundred percent success rate. Each leaf that you use can perform differently from each other when propagating them. Some may grow roots as soon as possible and create a baby succulent, others may not develop any root, and others may root but not develop a baby succulent. If you are lucky, some succulents can grow more than one baby succulent.

If mistakes occur, fret not, just keep on going, you can propagate your succulents with no worries. Keep reading and learning everything you need to know. If you need more information on how to grow and propagate your succulents make sure to read our extensive store of information on our website.

Frequently Asked Questions about Propagating Succulents:

Question #1: When is the best time to remove the parent leaf?

The parent leaf that you will use for propagating a succulent plant must not be removed until it becomes dry; it is the one that supplies nutrients and water that the baby succulent needs to grow properly.

If you are in a hurry to remove the baby succulents from the parent leaf, there is a chance that they will not be able to survive on their own. You must wait till the parent leaf is all-dried up and until it falls off from the baby succulents.

Question #2: Can I use rooting a hormone to propagate succulent leaf?

No, Succulent leaves contain nutrients that are used to sustain the new succulent that will grow from it. A baby succulent will grow and the parent leaf will wither normally. You will not need to use any rooting hormone to propagate a new succulent. The parent leaf will provide all the water and nutrients needed for the baby succulent that will grow.

Question #3: What is the perfect light setting for a new succulent to propagate or grow properly?

What is the perfect light setting for a new succulent to propagate or grow properly?
When propagating a succulent outdoors, you can choose a bright yet shady area that gets indirect sunlight. If propagating indoors, you can place the parent leaf in a window facing south.

Question #4: What are occurrences that can affect or prevent root growths for succulents used for leaf propagation?

If you live in areas that have dry and arid climates, it can disrupt the root growth. If a month has already passed since you propagated your parent leaf and there is no root development, the possible reason is because of the climate in your area.

If you propagate your succulent leaf, you must use a tray and place succulent soil and perlite or pumice stones when propagating the plant. Pumice or perlite will keep the leaves from the wet soil and prevent it from rotting.

Question #5: Why do succulent leaves rot?

Overwatering or frequent watering of the new succulent plant can keep the soil moist and cause the leaves to rot. Always remember that the succulent plant will only need water once the roots have formed. If the leaves are rotting, you can add pumice stones into the soil. It can keep the leaf from moist soil and allow the roots to grow. You must also remember to avoid misting the leaves because the leaves are prone to rot from too much water.

Question #6: How can I stop leaves from moving around?

If you are propagating outdoors and your area may experience moderate to strong winds, you can pin the leaves of the growing succulent. It can prevent them from falling off and it allows the succulent to grow healthy. You can use a thin wire and form it into a horseshoe shape and pin down the leaves until the roots have formed and developed.

How can I stop leaves from moving around?
Question #7: Why do my succulent roots become dry or withered while propagating them?

The leaves of succulents can lead to dead roots, it can happen so be very careful when dealing with succulents for propagation. Their roots are delicate and can be easily killed if not handled properly.

Question #8: What should I do when the roots of the succulents are not covered with soil?

You can add a small amount of soil over the roots to cover them. This is important because it can prevent the roots of the new succulent from drying out. When watering the succulent, you must prevent the leaves from getting wet or it can cause them to rot. You can water the soil in the front of the leaves; this will promote root growth and prevent the plant from rotting.

Question #9: Can all succulents be propagated using leaves?

Some succulents can be used for leaf propagation. Sedum and Echeveria succulents do well because they have fleshy and plump leaves.

Some succulents can be used for leaf propagation
Growing succulents and filling your garden with these cute and lovely plants is every gardener’s dream. Propagating succulents successfully is important so you can add more plants to your collection. Just make sure to avoid the mistakes mentioned above.

Are you planning to grow and care for succulents? Do you know how to properly propagate your succulents? Here at Eden Succulents, we will share all the information we know about succulents. Make sure to check out all the common mistakes to avoid when propagating succulents that have been discussed above, so you will know how to properly propagate your succulents.

If you need more information and guide that you will need to properly grow and care for your succulents, you can visit the rest of our website for more information. If you have any information that you’d like to share about the care of succulents, feel free to leave a comment for us, we’d love to hear from you!

Large Plastic Garden Syringe for Scientific Labs

Large Plastic Garden Syringe for Scientific Labs

3pcs 150ml Syringes: Each syringe is individually sealed, clean, safe and sterile. Great for refilling and measuring essential oil, inks, lubricants, sealants, glues, adhesives, solvents, light oil etc
Check It Out
Greenco Rectangle Bamboo Butler Serving Tray With Handles

Greenco Rectangle Bamboo Butler Serving Tray With Handles

Made of durable natural bamboo known to be environmentally friendly, stronger and more beautiful than regular wood.
Check It Out
Organic Succulent and Cactus Soil Mix

Organic Succulent and Cactus Soil Mix

Professionally formulated, imported from Denmark, to provide optimum growth for bonsai succulent and cacti plant
Check It Out
Bendable Metal Wire for DIY Sculpture and Crafts

Greenco Rectangle Bamboo Butler Serving Tray With Handles

Package includes: 4 rolls of aluminium wire in 4 different wire thickness; Each roll length: 16.4 feet; 65.6 Feet metal wire in total
Check It Out
Top Tips in Growing and Caring for Sedum Succulents

Top Tips in Growing and Caring for Sedum Succulents

by | Apr 24, 2020 | Uncategorized

Sedums are one of the most popular varieties of succulents. Succulents are well known for their fleshy leaves which makes them drought resistant. Sedum plants are not only great during the hot season, but they can also survive during the winter.

Sedum plants, also known as “Stonecrop”, can survive in full sunlight, infrequent watering, and most of all in well-drained soil. There is a wide variety of sedums and some of them can grow more than two feet tall. They can look great on a flower bed, but they can also be used as a border. The best Sedum variety for your old cottage garden is the Sedum spectabile “Autumn Joy”. For ground covers, you can use Sedum reflexum “Angelina”. Sedum plants in reds, grays, and greens are also great for ground covers.

There are different varieties of Sedum plants that can look great on containers as well as in any gardens. Its fleshy leaves can range from tiny to large. Commonly, succulent leaves are green, but they can also come in gray, green, blue, purple or variegated! These plants can easily attract butterflies and bees. Succulents are considered perennials, so you can always see them year after year.

Tips on How to Grow and Care for Sedums

If you are growing your succulents in containers, then you can add sand to make the soil mixture very porous. If you are planting them in a garden with heavy soil, then you should change it. Or you could choose to plant them in containers or in raised beds.

Although these plants can survive without water for a long period of time, it is still best to use well-drained soil. Average watering would be great and keep them slightly dry in between.
When choosing containers, be sure to match it with the look of your plants. If you want to obtain a succulent garden look, then you can use stone or concrete containers and round bowls. This can make your succulent garden look fantastic.

You don’t have to apply heavy fertilizers on them. The fact is, over-fertilizing your succulents can cause them to grow floppy. Obviously, you don’t want your plants to have numerous stems, but lesser flowers and leaves.

Tips on How to Grow and Care for Sedums
Sedums could enjoy some afternoon shade however the taller ones require adequate sunlight, so they won’t flop over.

When it comes to the taller varieties, it is best to take off the top portion of its main stems during springtime. This can make the plant grow efficiently and prevents them from flopping over.

You could mix your Sedums with other succulent varieties such as Sempervivum tectorum (Hens and Chicks). They could create a great combination for your Sedums.

Different Sedum Varieties

There is a plethora of sedum varieties, so we are only going to feature some cold-hardy sedum plants that can survive in any gardens.

Sedum acre “Goldmoss”

This sedum variety blooms bright yellow flowers during the summer and spring. They can quickly attract butterflies. They can grow well in zones 3-9 and are drought tolerant. These plants can reach a height of three inches and a width of 18-24 inches. Whether you grow them in rock gardens, containers, or simply use them as ground covers, they can look amazing.

Sedum rupestre “Angelina

These sedum plants are commonly found in every garden since they are a favorite of most people. They look gorgeous in green and yellow combination. These plants are also tough since they can tolerate drought, heat, and even poor soil. They can also enjoy having an afternoon shade. Sedum Angelina can grow up to six inches with a width of 2-3 feet. These succulents are best grown in zones 3-11 and can perform well whether you grow them in gardens or containers.

Sedum spurium “Dragon’s Blood”

This is one of the best sedums to plant in containers. Although they can also look stunning as a ground cover. These plants can reach a height of 4-6 inches with a width of 24 inches. Their leaves are green, but when fall comes they will turn into bright red. Dragon’s Blood will bloom red flowers during the summer. These sedums can grow excellently in zones 3-9.

Sedum spurium

Sedum reflexum “Blue Spruce”

These sedums have fine, needle-like foliage making it a favorite of every succulent grower. These succulents grow well in zones 3-11 and can make a magnificent ground cover. Its remarkable blue color can create a wonderful contrast in your garden. In the early summer, it will bloom beautiful yellow flowers. They can reach a height of 5 inches tall and a width of 18 inches.

Sedum spectabile “Autumn Joy”

This amazing sedum variety was previously used by the legendary garden designer Gertrude Jekyll back in the late 1800s. This tough sedum must be grown in zones 4-11. Its flower heads are in pink during its early stages. However, in the fall, the color will change into rosy red. They can look stunning when placed in the garden throughout the winter. These plants can reach as high as 24 inches and as wide as 24 inches. They require full sunlight to prevent them from flopping over.

Sedum spectabile “Autumn Fire”

This is basically the improved version of Sedum spectabile “Autumn Joy”. They are much bigger and have bigger flower heads. Most of all, their flowers can last longer. In late summer, these plants will bloom rose-pink flowers.

Although this is a fairly new variety, it has caught a lot of attention. They are perfect for any fall garden with their long-lasting flowers. Its maximum height is 18 inches and it has a width of 24 inches. These succulents are more suitable for hardy zones 3-11.

Sedum spectabile “Hot Stuff”

Compared to Sedum spectabile “Autumn Joy”, Sedum spectabile “Hot Stuff” is much smaller. The fact is, they can only grow less than 12 inches. However, they have similar upright growth. These plants have tough stems that won’t flop. From summer through fall, they can bloom pink flowers. These sedums must be planted in zones 4-10. They are excellent for flower beds as well as for containers.

So, what are you waiting for? Grow your sedum succulents now so your garden can enjoy an upgrade. At Eden Succulents, we have several posts that can help you in growing your succulents. We provide useful information about succulents to help you enjoy growing your succulents. What succulent variety are you growing right now? Please share it with us in the comments below!