fertilizing

Succulents don’t require fertilizing to grow indoors, but they will produce more offsets and bloom more often if they do receive extra nutrients. Use a water-soluble fertilizer that is low in nitrogen and balanced in phosphorus and potassium, such as 2-7-7 plant food. Water-soluble fertilizers tend to distribute nutrients more evenly than the sticks, spikes, or slow-release options, which can easily burn succulents.

This fertilizer recommends 10 to 20 drops in 1 quart (1l) of water. Start by using the lower recommended amount.

It is best to dilute the fertilizer, even if it isn’t highly concentrated. Too much concentrated fertilizer can “burn” succulents, causing patches to turn brown and possibly die. Fertilizing too frequently can cause them to grow too quickly and get stretched out. A good rule of thumb is to use half the amount of fertilizer recommended on the bottle.

Use this diluted fertilizer once in the spring and once in the fall. This should provide enough nutrients for the year. You can fertilize your succulents more often, but keep in mind that the more you fertilize, the faster your succulents will grow. If they aren’t getting enough light, this can cause them to become stretched out and “leggy” quickly.

If you’re growing succulents outdoors, they are likely getting more light and better airflow and can be fertilized more frequently. In their active growing season you can add the same diluted fertilizer monthly. This will encourage the plants to grow and will produce more vibrant colors. If you have just planted your succulents, give them at least a month before fertilizing to prevent any damage.

blooming

When your succulent is properly nourished and in the right environment, it may begin to bloom. Some succulents will flower annually, while others only bloom once in their lifetime. As your succulent is getting ready to bloom, you’ll see a new stalk growing out of the middle of the plant. The flowers will grow on the end of the stalk and will stay alive for a few days to a few weeks, depending on the plant. Once the flowers have died, you can cut off the stalk. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can harvest the seeds from the stalk and propagate them (see “Chicks” and “Seeds,” under “Propagating Succulents.”). A few succulents, such as the Christmas or Thanksgiving Cactus, will bloom on the end of their regular growth. You can remove the flowers once they have died. There will not be a stalk that needs to be cut or removed.