Succulent Care Guide

When you receive your plants...

Once plants are removed from their substrate, their roots trimmed, and phytosanitary products applied, they go into energy-saving mode and pause their vital functions. Once you receive them, the correct steps are:

• Let them rest in the shade for at least a couple of days.
• Plant them in slightly moist mineral substrate.
• Place them in partial shade so they gradually get used to the sun.
• Wait about 10 days before watering.

Succulent plants store water and energy in their leaves. They don't grow large roots—smaller ones are responsible for absorbing water and nutrients. These new roots take only a few days to develop. Therefore, if we water too soon, they won't absorb the water, which may cause fungus to develop in the substrate and stem.

If the oldest leaves are wrinkled, it usually doesn't mean the plant is dehydrated—it means the plant is using its stored energy.

Please do not place your succulent in water when you receive it!

Where should you place your plants?

There are thousands of succulent species, classified into various families. Their needs vary from one to another, and the most important thing is to adapt the planting to our climate and growing conditions.

As general guidelines for the genera we work with, keep in mind:

• They are outdoor plants. Indoors, it's difficult to keep them in good condition.
• They need direct sunlight; they prefer morning or late afternoon sun.
• In summer and under full sun exposure, they must be protected during the hottest hours of the day with a shade mesh.
• They need ventilation, which promotes the plant's growth and overall health.

Recommended Substrates

There is no exact formula for making a good substrate for your succulents. Among the different families and species, their needs vary, and depending on the local climate, the ideal substrate will also differ.

These are plants with low nutritional requirements and can grow in almost any substrate, as long as other variables (light, water, and location) are controlled. It is recommended to prepare the substrate based on the availability of materials and the specific needs of your plants.

A basic, economical, and universal substrate would be:

50% Peat 50% Pumice/Volcanic gravel

Recommended materials:

• Blonde peat
• Pumice
• Volcanic gravel
• Akadama

Not recommended materials:

• Coconut fiber
• Perlite
• Vermiculite
• River sand
• Charcoal

Important: Do not place any type of decorative stone over the substrate, as it prevents proper airflow and can lead to root rot in your plants.

Watering your plants

Just like when preparing the substrate, there is no universal method for watering. Some plants need more water, some go dormant, others tolerate excess better... As a general rule, it is best to water only when the substrate is dry. If in doubt, it's better not to water; a dehydrated plant can recover, but an overwatered (rotted) plant will go straight to plant heaven.

General watering tips:

Summer: It's best to water at night so that leftover water doesn't cause burns on the leaves and the substrate doesn't dry out too quickly. If temperatures are consistently above 32°C (89.6°F), it's best not to water. The plants have water and energy reserves to survive for months.

Winter: It's best to water in the morning. If temperatures are consistently below 8°C (46.4°F), it's better not to water, as there is a risk of the temperature dropping further and freezing the plants.

During growth seasons (spring and autumn), it's better to water frequently and thoroughly.

Plant Maintenance

• It is advisable to renew the substrate every 2–3 years, depending on the size of the plant, and to clean up the roots.
• During the growing season, it is recommended to use a growth fertilizer specifically for cacti, diluted to half strength. A good ratio for your fertilizer is 3-1-5 NPK. It's best not to apply fertilizer on the leaves (it may cause burns/rot) and to use it on days with mild temperatures, avoiding very hot or cold days.
• It's helpful to apply mineral oil or neem oil a couple of times during mild seasons as a preventive measure. Always dilute it to half the recommended dosage.
• It is also advisable, during the growing seasons, to use preventive fungicides like copper/sulfur (do not apply during low temperatures).