Winter is coming…

We get it. Desert plants + subzero temperatures do not mix. Fortunately, there are ways to keep the good times rolling with your succulents despite the cold temps ahead! Here are our top tips for surviving the winter with your plant pals in tact:

• If you live somewhere that drops between 30-40 degrees (or lower, of course) bring your succulents inside.  If you’ve planted your succulents outside and there is no way to uproot them, using a frost cloth or bed sheet to cover them is also an option.
• Repot. If you have succulents planted outside that you can repot, September-October is the time to do it! If you are short on space, huddling succulents together in an arrangement is perfect. Not to mention, they make great centerpieces just in time for the festive holiday gatherings!
• Under-water as oppose to over-watering. Some succulents go dormant in the winter and don’t need as much water. Make sure they have well-draining soil and keep an eye on the moisture!
• Only water when the soil is completely dry.
• Nix that dead foliage ASAP. Dead foliage can be a source for fungi and attract insects, the most common being ants and mealybugs (which look like little pieces of white cotton between the leaves).If you notice these intruders, you can use a 2:1 ratio of 91% rubbing alcohol and water. Mix these two in a spray bottle and spray the leaves.

  

  Mealybugs on a leaf.

• Keep in mind the 6 hour rule. If you can, position your succulents in a west-facing window so they get a minimum of 6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight a day.
• Grow lights might be your new best friend. If you notice your succulents stretching (lots of stem space between leaves, like this succulent), that means they aren’t getting enough sunlight. We recommend a 30-45W full spectrum grow bulb, like this one, and using it no more than 16 hours a day.

• If you notice a change in your succulents – leaves falling off, rosettes closing, paling in color – don’t fret! Your succulents will be poppin’ again come spring!

For a recap, peep our video below and don’t hesitate to email hello@succulent.studio with any winter weather questions!

Now that you know succulents can survive the winter, it’s time to treat yo’ self to some new succulent babes! Enjoy $5 off your first Succulent Studios box by hitting the button below.