Ice Plant 'Delosperma'

Unlike other succulents, Delosperma is a heavy drinker and will do best in soils that are allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Do not allow them to dry out completely, as this can affect their overall health. It’s best to water the soil until the water runs out the drainage holes. It’s not recommended to keep the plant constantly damp.

Delosperma plants prefer full sun or at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. They are heat loving and prefer an upright orientation where sunlight exposure is maximum. When kept indoors, place it in well-lit south or west facing window. Do not keep the plant in a dark corner for too long, as it may cause stunted growth with weaker blooms.

Delosperma can tolerate both cold and hot temperature ranges, as much as 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 Celsius) and 110°F (43°C) respectively. During the summer months, they are best kept in temperatures between 50°F (10°C) to 80°F (27°C). During the winter, a temperature range of 40-60°F (4-15°C degrees) should be maintained.

Delosperma prefer a moderate level of humidity and are considered somewhat moisture sensitive. With higher levels of humidity, fungal and pest infestations may become problematic. The soil should not be allowed to become soggy and overwatering should be avoided. Good air circulation will generally keep the plant healthy.

Delosperma prefer very well-draining soil and a shallow pot for better root health. A succulent soil mix is ideal, as it will be light and well-draining. Equally important is the use of a pot with adequate drainage. If the pot does not have enough drainage, a layer of gravel at the bottom can help water drain away from the roots.

During the growth and flowering season, fertilize every two weeks with cactus fertilizer. If the foliage appears light or yellow, fertilizer can also be used as a tonic twice a month to brighten the leaves. It’s best to use a product with a higher phosphate content as this will encourage more blooms. Fertilize the soil sparingly as too much fertilizer can cause a salt buildup which can burn the Delosperma's roots.

Common pests include aphids, mealybugs, scale, thrips, and spider mites, which can be identified by their webs. The most effective way to get rid of these pests is to treat them with an insecticide. In the case of an infestation, a systemic insecticide may be necessary. It is important to check the plant regularly for signs of pests and treat them as soon as they are noticed.

Repotting should take place in early spring, when the plant is dormant and before new growth starts. Transplant into a larger pot only when necessary, using well-draining regular potting mix for succulents. After repotting, avoid watering for the first week and be sure to provide a bright spot for the plant.

Delosperma plants do not require much pruning and can be encouraged to remain healthy and compact. During its flowering season, the spent blooms can be cut off as desired, both to prevent the setting of seed and to provide a tidy appearance to the plant. Occasionally removing any dead or diseased stems or leaves is beneficial.

Mulching is beneficial for this plant, as it helps to keep the soil moist and minimize the effects of the sun's heat. Choose an organic mulch such as well-rotted compost or peat moss to allow for proper drainage and reduce the spread of weeds.

Delosperma can be propagated through either division or cuttings. For division, separate and repot the individual plantlets in pots with well-draining soil. Cuttings can be taken from both roots and stems. Stems should be taken in the spring and need to be left to dry before they can be rooted. Place the cuttings in well-draining cactus mix and keep warm and moist until the roots begin to show.

Due to the heavy flowers of Delosperma, the plant is prone to bending over when in full bloom. If this occurs with your plant, use stakes or a trellis for extra support.

Delosperma does not need a rest period, however, if it is given too much water at the wrong time of year it may cause root rot and prevent the plant from flowering. Be sure to water these plants well in the spring and summer and reduce watering to a minimum in the winter.

Delosperma is not toxic to pets when ingested.