Crassula

As Crassulas are succulents, they have adapted to survive on less water for extended periods of time. To encourage growth, water your plant in spring and summer when the soil is dry. Adequate watering is important, but take care not to overwater. To check whether your Crassula needs to be watered, insert your finger into the soil to a depth of 2 inches. If it feels dry, it is time to water. During winter, minimize watering as the plant goes dormant and does not require much water.

Crassula loves bright sunlight. They prefer at least six hours of direct sunlight a day, which will encourage them to flower. Varieties with blue-green and grayish leaves need less sunlight to prevent them from scorching in the sun. During winter, Crassula still need some light. It is however important to reduce the amount of light during this season. Too much light can cause the edges of the leaves to dry out.

Crassula prefers temperatures between 65-80 °F (18-26°C) during the day and between 40-50°F (5-10°C) at night. Hot temperatures can cause discoloration in the leaves. If your plant is outside, it is recommended to bring it in during winter, as temperatures below 40°F (5°C) can damage the plant.

Crassula thrive in dry conditions, with low relative humidity. The air humidity should not exceed 50%. If you think your environment is too humid, you can improve the air circulation by placing your plant in a spot which is away from radiators, air conditioning vents, and other drafts.

As mentioned, Crassulas need a well-draining potting mix, ideally a mix with organic material such as peat, pine bark, sand, perlite, or vermiculite. Regular soil can be too dense, so it is important to find a quality soil mix for your succulents that is not too wet.

Crassulas should be fertilized regularly during their growing season, usually every other week between April-August. Use a water-soluble fertilizer that is formulated specifically for cacti and succulents. During the fall and winter ensure you do not fertilize the plant, as this can cause harm to the plant as it moves into its resting period.

Some pests may affect your Crassula. Common ones include mealybugs, scales, aphids, and spider mites. Mealybugs will excrete a white, waxy substance on the leaves, and in severe cases, the leaves of the plant can dry out, turning yellow and translucent. If you notice these signs, a good solution is to dilute some rubbing alcohol in water and spray the solution on the leaves once a week for a few weeks. This method should clear any infestation. Scales can be removed by a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. For aphids and spider mites, introducing predatory bugs can be an effective form of treatment.

Crassula are usually repotted in the early spring. The pot should be slightly larger than the existing one in order to accommodate the roots. Be sure to use a pot with drainage holes to make sure the soil is not too wet. It’s also important to use proper soil. It should be a quality, fast-draining soil, such as cactus mix or succulent soil.

If your Crassula is getting too big for its pot or outgrowing its shape, you can prune the leggy parts. It is recommended to use a sharp, sterile pruning tool. If you need to reduce the size of your plant, cut back only part of it, leaving enough foliage to keep the Crassula in shape. These pruned parts can also be used for propagation.

Mulching the soil around your Crassula is not necessary, however it can help retain moisture in the soil. Mulching with moss is generally advised against as it can retain too much moisture, which can cause rotting of the plant.

Propagating your Crassulas is an easy way to grow new plants. Propagating can be done through cuttings or leaves. To propagate from cuttings, cut a stem that is at least 2 inches long, and remove the lower leaves. Allow the stem to dry out for a few days in a well-ventilated area. Place the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil and water thoroughly. Place your cuttings in a warm, sunny spot and let them grow! Propagating from leaves requires fewer steps. Cut a healthy leave, allow it to dry out for a few days, and press the leaf into the soil until the underside is in contact with the soil. Water it lightly and place it in a warm, sunny spot.

Crassula may require support while they are growing. These plants can become top-heavy due to their thick leaves, so you may need to provide extra support for strong stems to prevent them from toppling over.

Like all succulents, Crassula require a period of dormancy during winter to maintain their health and vigor. During this time, refrain from fertilizing your plant. Reduce watering to once a month, to prevent overwatering and root rot. The temperature should remain cooler during this period to help the plant conserve energy.

Crassulas are not poisonous to pets. But due to their small, fleshy leaves, consuming large amounts may cause stomach and gastrointestinal issues. It is therefore advised to keep pets away from Crassula if possible, as it is best to avoid any contact between pets and these plants.