As we get deeper into the spring season, watering and fertilizing becomes important to help foster healthy growth. It is, however, important to keep an eye on the weather. Do not water when the soil is wet or when the daytime highs fall below 55F. Always be wary of the possibility of frost, and protect plants if needed. Because they are pushing out new growth, the new tender leaves being produced at the central growth point is more vulnerable to frost damage.
Spring is also the best time of year to begin propagating your echeverias. Echeverias that produce offsets or "pups" can easily be divided. Cuttings can be taken from branching varieties, and leaves can be taken from solitary growing echeverias to produce new plantlets (this method takes a significantly longer period of time, so be patient!). Larger echeverias, like the monstrous Echeveria gigantea, or any Echeveria gibbiflora hybrid, can be beheaded. Re-plant the large rosette and be sure not to throw away the bare stalk! This "stump" will produce new plantlets. Be sure to use sharp, clean pruners for this job, and perform during warmer, dry weather to avoid fungal or bacterial rot."
1 comment
I’ve been growing and caring for Cactus and succulent for 50+ years. I’m interested