Taking care of a finger succulent, also known as Sedum or Crassula species like "ET's Fingers" or "Ogre Ears," involves providing well-draining soil, letting the soil dry out completely between waterings, and ensuring it receives plenty of sunlight.
Here's a breakdown of key care aspects:
Soil
- Well-Draining Mix: Use a succulent or cactus potting mix. These mixes are designed to allow water to drain freely, preventing root rot. You can amend regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage.
Watering
- Allow Soil to Dry Completely: The most crucial aspect is to let the soil dry out thoroughly between waterings. Overwatering is the quickest way to kill a finger succulent.
- Water Thoroughly When Dry: When the soil is dry, water the plant thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot.
- Reduce Watering in Winter: During the dormant winter months, reduce watering frequency even further.
Sunlight
- Full Sun is Best: Finger succulents thrive in bright, direct sunlight. A south-facing window is often ideal.
- Insufficient Light: If your succulent isn't getting enough light, it may become etiolated (stretched out and leggy) as it reaches for the sun. If this happens, gradually introduce it to more light.
Temperature
- Ideal Temperatures: Most finger succulents prefer temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C).
- Avoid Frost: Protect them from frost, as they are not cold-hardy.
Potting and Repotting
- Pot with Drainage: Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
- Repotting: Repot your finger succulent every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Spring or early summer is the best time to repot.
Fertilizing
- Light Feeding: Fertilize sparingly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted succulent fertilizer.
- Avoid Over-Fertilizing: Too much fertilizer can harm your succulent.
Propagation
- Leaf Propagation: Finger succulents can easily be propagated from leaves. Simply detach a healthy leaf and allow it to callous over for a few days. Then, place it on top of well-draining soil and wait for roots to form.
- Stem Cuttings: Stem cuttings can also be used for propagation. Allow the cut end to callous over before planting in soil.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your finger succulent thrives and remains a healthy and attractive addition to your plant collection.
