Crassula arborescens

Crassula arborescens is a drought-tolerant species and can survive periods of dryness. It should be watered deeply, allowing the soil to get slightly dry in between watering cycles. During the summer, it can be watered up to twice-weekly and during winter the cycles can be reduced to once a week. If the soil is always very moist, the plant may suffer from root rot.

Crassula arborescens needs bright light to thrive. Too much direct sunlight can cause sunburns on the foliage and poor growth. Therefore, it should either be placed in a location that doesn’t get direct sunlight for the hottest part of the day or be placed in partial shade. It’s a good idea to move the pot to the light and then move it back to the shade in the afternoon or evening. In winter, it can take more direct sunlight, but it should still receive some shade in the hottest part of the day.

When kept outdoors, Crassula arborescens can survive temperatures as low as 25 degrees Fahrenheit (-4 degrees Celsius). When kept indoors, the temperatures should not drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius).

Crassula arborescens requires average household humidity, as long as the temperatures are mild. If temperatures are high, then higher humidity is necessary to prevent wilting and growth issues.

When it comes to soil, Crassula arborescens requires a well-draining one. The site should have plenty of organic matter and a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Additionally, it should also have nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Crassula arborescens should be fertilized during the growing season only. Use a balanced fertilizer to support growth and flowering. For best results, use a fertilizer designed specifically for succulents, that is applied every four to five weeks when watering.

Common pests that may infest Crassula arborescens are mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, and scale. If any of these pests are present on the plant, it is important to take immediate action to get rid of them, as they can cause wilting and yellowing foliage. To get rid of them, use a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soaps. To prevent these pests, make sure to inspect the plant weekly for any signs of damage or infestation.

It is best to repot Crassula arborescens every two to three years in order to provide the plant with nutrients and fresh soil. The best time to repot it is in the springtime when the weather is warmer and the plant is starting to sprout again. When repotting, make sure to use a well-draining soil and a pot that has good drainage holes.

Crassula arborescens can benefit from regular pruning and the removal of any brown or yellow foliage that is not growing anymore. Pruning should be done very carefully, as the leaves of this species are very delicate. Use clean scissors to cut off any damaged foliage and dead wood.

Mulching is not necessary but it does help retain moisture in the soil. If mulch is used, make sure to use a well-draining one such as gravel, chopped leaves, or small stones.

The best way to propagate Crassula arborescens is through stem cuttings. To do this, cut off a healthy stem below a node and remove the lower leaves. Place the stem in a container with moist soil. After the cutting has taken root, it can be transplanted in a larger container and grown into a mature plant.

Crassula arborescens can become top-heavy and need support once it grows larger. To provide support, use a stake or other type of support that won’t damage the roots of the plant.

Crassula arborescens has periods of rest and dormancy where the growth of the plant slows down or stops entirely. It is during these periods that the plant needs less water and fertilizer that would normally be used during the growing season. This rest period also helps prepare the plant for its next period of growth.

Crassula arborescens is not toxic to pets.