Succulents, commonly known as plants with enlarged nutrient organs, are a diverse group within horticulture.

With tens of thousands of varieties, the world of succulents is continually expanding alongside the growth of the horticultural industry.

South Africa and Mexico boast the highest number of native succulents globally. Large-scale succulent cultivation is also prominent in countries like South Korea and Japan.

Succulents have gained popularity worldwide as potted plants due to their rich variety, unique forms, and vibrant colors. They have become increasingly common as household plants in recent years. Caring for succulents may seem debatable; some claim they thrive in harsh environments, while others argue they are delicate.

So, how exactly should succulents be cared for to ensure optimal growth? Firstly, succulents, being a distinctive plant class, share common growth habits. Originating mostly from South Africa and Mexico, these plants exhibit preferences for dry, well-ventilated environments over damp and hot conditions.

Their ability to absorb water quickly is aided by fleshy stems, roots, and leaves, and they adapt to the arid climates of plateaus and mountains. Therefore, maintaining a dry and ventilated environment is crucial, especially during watering, with a preference for dry conditions in spring and fall and intermittent dry-wet cycles in winter and summer.

Secondly, succulents thrive in abundant light and are unsuitable for shaded environments. Sufficient light ensures efficient photosynthesis, enhancing metabolic processes and promoting robust growth. The thickness of succulent stems and leaves intensifies with ample light. Thus, adequate light is essential for their growth, coloration, and overall health.

Thirdly, succulents experience high or low-temperature dormancy periods based on their native seasons. Unsuitable temperatures lead to dormancy, evident in leaf depletion or poor condition. While some succulents are summer dormant (winter types), and others are winter dormant (summer types), maintaining an optimal temperature range of 20 to 25 degrees Celsius is ideal for their growth, with precautions for temperatures below 10 degrees and high summer temperatures.

Fourthly, succulents exhibit tenacious vitality and strong reproductive capabilities. Some species can withstand extended periods without watering, and many have the ability to reproduce through various methods such as seeding, leaf plugs, cuttings, and dividing plants. The survival rate is remarkably high under suitable conditions.

Although succulents share hardy traits in their native habitats, their diversity necessitates different maintenance actions based on species and families. Each variety has distinct growth environments and maintenance requirements. The world of succulents is vast and varied, encompassing numerous families and horticultural hybrids. The rich diversity within the succulent realm requires tailored care to ensure the thriving health of these unique plants.