Burro’s tail, snake plant, panda plant — any of them sound familiar? If you’re thinking succulent plants, then you would be right. These are the names of some common and cute succulent plants that are irresistible and often seen on office desks, bookshelves and centre tables. But they are also very delicate. So if you are a novice plant parent who has lost their beloved succulent plant too soon, then we feel your pain. Owing to various myths floating around, most succulents die an early death, when they deserve to live.

Let us bust 6 common myths about succulent plants that you must have heard or believed at some point in your gardening journey. Read on.

Myth #1: Succulents are indoor plants

Reality: NO they are absolutely not! Some succulents need sunlight

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Even if indoors, they need some sunlight

It is time to burst your bubble and let those succulents thrive in the outdoors. Just like other plants, succulent plant also need sunlight and fresh air. In fact, some succulent plants need 12 hours of sunlight! Can you believe that? No wonder these cute things meet their tragic end on those tabletops. You can still keep them on your desk, though, as long as you are keeping them in sunlight during the day.

Myth #2: You should water your succulents at least once a week

Reality: Succulents can survive without being watered for 15 to 20 days in cold weather conditions

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Succulents can go days without water

Yes, succulent plants resent wet feet. They require water only when the soil is totally dry. Otherwise they can go months without water. Haven’t you heard of cacti growing in deserts? Refresh your school lessons and remember that succulent plant stores water in the form of sap in their leaves. So even if you forget to water your succulents, chances are that they will survive.

Myth #3: Succulents should only be planted in soil

Reality: No, they need well-draining soil like cactus soil

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Try using cactus soil

Some people assume that succulent plants are best sown and grown in sand, but that’s not true. Agreed that succulents need a well-draining soil but sand can be too draining and your succulent plant will receive very little water. So what is the alternative? We suggest using succulent or cactus soil. You can also place pebbles or gravel at the bottom of your planter for added drainage.

Myth #4: Succulents are robust and can withstand any weather conditions

Reality: Most succulents prefer less humid, sunny weather

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Succulents are hardy but not immortal

Although succulent plant is hardy, that does not mean that they can thrive in extreme weather conditions for long periods. Some succulents like Sedum and Sempervivum are robust when compared to the others. Basically, whatever you do, do in moderation. Whether you give your succulent plant water or sunlight, make sure it is moderated.

Myth #5: Succulents can be cooked and eaten like other greens

Reality: They are plants but they are poisonous, so please don’t eat them!

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They look tempting but do not consume them

You might be tempted by those sappy leaves, but mind you, most succulents are poisonous and it can be seriously harmful if you consume them. It is not recommended to cook them and eat them. Very rare succulent plants, like Salicornia, can be cooked and consumed. Before exposing any of your plants to children or animals in your home, be aware of their toxicity.

Myth #6: Succulents can survive and grow for years in a terrarium

Reality: They need fresh air and good ventilation

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Never place succulents in small terrariums

Succulents do not thrive in closed or tight spaces. They will not survive for long in closed terrariums. This is because moisture cannot escape in such conditions, allowing mould to grow and causing root rot in your succulents.

How do you care for succulents indoors?

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Only water the soil, not the leaves
  • When indoors, our succulents tend to be deprived of light. So place them near a window where they can receive light all day.
  • Do not spray the leaves with water. Only soak the roots with water. But do not water them everyday. That is the easiest way to kill them.
  • Avoid glass containers or anything that does not drain water.
  • Avoid the infestation of bugs like gnats and mealy bugs by getting a well-draining soil mix and allowing your soil to dry between watering.

Where is the best place to keep succulent plants?

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A shady spot at home with medium sunlight is ideal

Keep your succulents in well-ventilated areas at home. Windowsills where you do not receive very harsh sunlight are also a great spot for indoor succulent plants. Red, grey or blue succulents can survive and reflect harsh sun rays.

We hope you can save your succulents from dying now. Please save this post and keep it for future reference and do not fall for myths! Now that we have spoken about plants, also check out 8 Effective Home Remedies for Lizards.

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