How to Cultivate Stunning Succulents Indoors

Growing succulents indoors can be a bit challenging, but fear not! With these simple tips, you’ll be able to care for your indoor succulent collection with ease. Succulents may not be the easiest house plants, but they are definitely worth the effort. In this article, you will learn exactly how to grow beautiful and healthy succulents indoors.

Graptopetalum paraguayense, Portulacaria afra variegata

How to Cultivate Stunning Succulents Indoors

Start with the Right Succulents

Not all succulents are suitable for indoor growing. Choose succulents that prefer shade or low light rather than those that require full sun. This will make a big difference in the success of your indoor succulent garden. Green succulents, such as Haworthia and Gasteria varieties, are great options to start with.

Haworthia fasciata “Zebra Plant”

Provide Ample Light

Succulents need plenty of sunlight to thrive, but it can be challenging to provide enough light indoors. Ideally, they require about 6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight each day. Place your succulents near a window that receives light all day or choose the brightest area in your home or office.

See Also:  Tips for Creating Beautiful Succulent Container Gardens

Watering Tips

One of the biggest challenges for new succulent growers is watering. Succulents have unique watering needs. They require a surprising amount of water to thrive, but they don’t like to be watered as frequently as most indoor plants. The “soak and dry” method works best for succulents. It involves thoroughly watering the succulents and allowing the soil to dry out before watering again.

Portulacaria afra variegata, Echeveria harmsii

Remember that succulents have a dormant period when they don’t need as much water. This period usually occurs during the cooler months of the year. Wilting and shriveling lower leaves are a natural part of succulent growth, so there’s no need to worry unless the newest or uppermost leaves are affected.

Choose the Right Containers

Avoid using glass containers or any containers that don’t provide proper drainage for your succulents. Succulents dislike sitting in soggy soil, and glass containers may lack breathability. Opt for pots with drainage holes, as they allow for good airflow and help the soil dry out easily.

Gasteria variety, Sedum adolphii, and Crassula marnieriana

Handling Bugs

With proper care, succulents rarely attract pests. However, if you happen to bring home a succulent with bugs, it can become a bothersome issue. Gnats are common insects that can infest succulents if the soil remains too wet. To prevent them, make sure to use well-draining soil and allow the soil to dry between watering. Mealy bugs are another common pest. If you spot them, spray rubbing alcohol on the affected areas and soil to eliminate them.

See Also:  Preventing Bud Drop on Christmas Cactus: Tips and Tricks

Enjoy the Process!

Remember, growing succulents indoors can be enjoyable and therapeutic. Even if you are new to succulent gardening, they will generally look good for several weeks. So don’t stress too much. Sit back, relax, and have fun caring for your indoor succulent garden!

Graptopetalum paraguayense, Portulacaria afra variegata