Welcome!
Hi there, I'm Rachel. Welcome to your succulent care guide!
Whether you have bought plants from me in person at my new plant stall or through my eBay store, Parcel Plants, hopefully this guide will help you to get the most from your new plants and enjoy them for many years to come.
I'm passionate about succulents and want to ensure you have all the tips and tricks you need to help your plants thrive. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or just starting, this guide will provide you with expert advice on caring for your succulents.
General Care Tips:
Light: Succulents thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Ensure they get plenty of light, but avoid intense, direct sun for prolonged periods.
Water: Water sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Typically, watering once every 1-2 weeks is sufficient.
Soil: Use well-draining soil, preferably a cactus or succulent mix to prevent water from sitting at the roots.
Temperature: Succulents prefer warm environments. Keep them indoors during colder months or protect them from frost if kept outdoors.
Fertiliser: During the growing season, use a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser diluted to half strength every month or so.
Sedum Info
Sedums, also known as stonecrops, are versatile and hardy succulents known for their vibrant colours and easy care. They thrive in full sun, are drought-tolerant, and can be grown both indoors and outdoors, making them perfect for gardens and containers alike.
Light: Sedums love full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Water: These are drought-tolerant plants. Water thoroughly when the soil is dry.
Soil: They do best in well-draining, sandy, or gravelly soil.
Temperature: Sedums are hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, making them perfect for outdoor gardens.
Graptosedum Info
Graptosedums are stunning hybrids of Graptopetalum and Sedum, featuring rosettes of fleshy, colourful leaves that can range from green to pink and even blue hues. They thrive in full sun and well-draining soil, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor displays.
Light: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Water: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering.
Soil: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix.
Temperature: Thrives in warm temperatures but should be protected from frost.
Propagation: Easy to propagate from leaf or stem cuttings.
Crassula Info
Crassulas are a diverse group of succulents known for their thick, fleshy leaves and unique shapes. Often referred to as jade plants, they thrive in bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. Crassulas are perfect for indoor settings but can also be grown outdoors in warmer climates.
Light: Crassulas need bright, indirect sunlight.
Water: Water thoroughly when the soil is dry, less frequently in winter.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix.
Temperature: Prefers warmer temperatures. Protect from frost.
Fertiliser: Use a diluted, balanced fertiliser during the growing season.
Note: Crassula is less hardy compared to other succulents and should be kept indoors in colder climates.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Care:
Indoor: Ensure ample light, using grow lights if necessary. Maintain a consistent watering schedule and avoid draughts.
Outdoor: Ideal for warmer climates. Monitor weather changes and protect from extreme conditions.
Professional Tips for Big, Colourful Succulents:
Maximise Light Exposure: Place succulents in the brightest spot available, ideally receiving 6 hours of sunlight daily. Consider using grow lights during winter.
Controlled Stress: Slightly stressing succulents by exposing them to full sun or less frequent watering can enhance their colours.
Proper Spacing: Ensure adequate space between plants to allow airflow and reduce competition for light and nutrients.
Watering Technique: Water deeply and infrequently. Allow the water to reach the roots and avoid getting water on the leaves.
Nutrient Boost: Use a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertiliser to promote flowering and vibrant colours. Apply during the growing season.
Temperature Regulation: Maintain stable temperatures. Sudden changes can stress the plants and affect growth.
Common Pests and Diseases:
Mealybugs: Small, white, cotton-like insects that cluster in leaf joints.
Signs: White cottony residue, wilting, yellowing leaves.
Solution: Remove manually with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or treat with insecticidal soap.
Aphids: Tiny green, black, or brown insects that feed on sap.
Signs: Distorted leaves, sticky residue, ants.
Solution: Spray with a mixture of water and a few drops of washing-up liquid, or use neem oil.
Spider Mites: Tiny red or brown spiders that create webbing.
Signs: Fine webbing, speckled yellow leaves.
Solution: Increase humidity, rinse leaves with water, or use insecticidal soap.
Root Rot: Caused by overwatering and poor drainage.
Signs: Black, mushy roots, foul smell, yellowing leaves.
Solution: Remove affected roots, repot in fresh, dry soil, and reduce watering frequency.
Fungal Infections: Common in high humidity and poor airflow.
Signs: Black spots, mould growth.
Solution: Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and treat with a fungicide.
Seasonal Care Tips:
Spring/Summer: Increase watering frequency, fertilise during growth.
Autumn/Winter: Reduce watering, keep in a bright location, avoid fertilising.
Decorative Uses:
Arrangements: Combine different varieties for attractive displays.
Containers: Use well-draining pots and containers.
Landscaping: Ideal for rock gardens and drought-tolerant landscapes.
Where to Find Us
Amwell Bootsale: Visit our plant stall at Amwell Bootsale most Sundays to see our latest selection of succulents and get personalized advice.
Online Store: Can’t make it to the boot sale? Browse and purchase our plants online. Currently available on eBay.
Stay tuned for our upcoming website, Parcelplants.com where you'll find even more gardening essentials. Or continue to explore this website, mindmeddler.com (our sister company) to find out all about our herbal blends designed for sleep and lucid dreaming!
Contact Us
Have questions about succulent care or need personalized advice? Feel free to reach out!
We're here to help you create a thriving succulent garden.
Final Tips
Succulents are not only beautiful additions to any garden but also low-maintenance plants, perfect for busy lifestyles. With their stunning foliage and resilience, they bring year-round beauty to any space, indoors or outdoors. Explore our selection of succulents and start creating your own succulent oasis today!