How do I keep my succulents looking as good as the day I bought them?
by
Cindy Rubin
+12
I LOVE LOVE LOVE succulents. But it never fails that they become unruly and a mere shadow of themselves. I truly have tried to trim them back, sculpt them like a topiary etc. They don't die and they seem healthy... just ugly. These are pictures of one just starting to change
HI THERE,
Don't over water.
Care tips at https://www.hometalk.com/diy/grow/succulents/how-to-care-for-succulent-plants-9026176
How to Care for Succulent Plants
You might have too much water or your soil is properly draining. I put gravel in the bottom of my pots and add it to the soil to make sure it drains well.
Hello, Mine do fine *totally* ignored in zone 7 —for years. Do not over water make sure there’s drainage holes.
That's easy!
Buy fake ones!
That's what I resorted to after several fails.
I first thought about overwatering, as others have mentioned.
But I am also wondering how old the soil in the pots is, and if it may be too compacted for the water and nutrients to effectively get absorbed by the roots? or if the pots are adequately large enough for the roots to flourish?
I make their potting soil from 2 parts soil, 1 part sand (contractor, not play), 1/2 peat and 1/2 vermIculite occasionally feed and water in zone 7
Hi Cindy, we have a huge collection of succulents and they are so rewarding. If you need more tips on growing, propagating or identifying them you may find this article informative - https://acraftymix.com/blog/tips-identifying-growing-succulents/
Remove the lower leaves until you're satisfied with how it looks. If you dislike the naked stem after removing the leaves, just behead it - wait for the wound to callous over for a few days and then plant in dry soil for a week without watering - You then have a plant the same way as when you bought it.