We want you to be succussful with your plants so that you have years to enjoy them.  We are often asked questions on how to maintain or troubleshoot their succulents.  We do our best to add those questions and have answered them here.  If you still have additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at brickwerks@gmail.com.  Happy planting!

 

 

What is a succulent?

Succulents are water-retaining plants adapted to arid climates or soil conditions that store water in their leaves, stems, and or roots.

 

How often should I Water my succulents?

The #1 killer for succulents is overwatering.  Water only when the soil is dry.  Don’t water if the soil is wet! If it takes 1 weeks for the soil to dry, then water in 1 week.  If it takes 3 days for the soil to dry, then you can water in 3 days.

Succulents should be watered generously in the summer as described above, but soil should be allowed to completely dry between watering.  During the winter, when the plants go dormant, cut watering back to once a month.  Overwatering and ensuing plant rot is the single most common cause of plant failure.  A succulent should never be allowed to sit in water.

 

What kind of temperatures do they need/like?

Succulents are much more cold-tolerant than what most people assume.  As in the desert, where there is often a marked contrast between night and day, succulents thrive in colder nights, down to even 40ºF.  Ideally, succulents prefer daytime temperatures between 70ºF and about 85ºF and nighttime temperatures between 50ºF and 55ºF. It’s always a smart idea to contact your local Cactus & Succulent Society/Club for specific information related to your specific area.

 

What kind of light do they need?

If in a home, succulents prefer bright light, such as on a south-facing window.  Watch the leaves for indications that the light level is correct.  Some species will scorch if suddenly exposed to direct sunlight.  The leaves will turn brown or white as the plant bleaches out and the soft tissues are destroyed.  Alternatively, an under lit succulent will begin to stretch, with an elongated stem and widely spaced leaves.  This condition is known as etoliation.  The solution is to provide better light and prune the plant back to its original shape.  Many kinds of succulents will thrive outdoors in the summer.

 

What kind of Potting Soils should I use?

Succulents should be potted in a fast-draining mixture that’s designed for cacti and succulents.  If you don’t have access to a specialized mix, considering modifying a normal potting mix with an inorganic agent like perlite to increase aeration and drainage.  These plants generally have shallow roots that form a dense mat just under the soil surface.

 

When do they flower?

All succulents and cactus flower and they do so at different times of the year. Some of the blooms are simple and basic, while other blooms reach high into the air attracting insects and hummingbirds.