How to deal with Succulents in Summer
Summertime can be extremely hard for anyone growing and caring for succulents outdoors. I live in Las Vegas, NV and it is nearly impossible to have them out all summer without casualties.
Below I will mention common issues you encounter in Summer (Please note, these are not exclusive to summertime)
Sun Burn or Sun Damage on Succulents
Just like humans, succulents can get sunburned by being exposed to the sun for too long or when the UV Index is too high. If you are not sure what the UV index in your area is, just type “UV Index and your zipcode” on Google and it will tell you. Usually, anything 1-4 is moderate and you can have your succulents out without any issues. During summer, that number can be very high. Currently, we have 7.4 in Las Vegas.
When that happens, you could move the succulents indoors under grow lights (that’s my favorite option) or you could use Sunblock Shade Cloth Net Mesh to help you create more shade.
Unless the succulent is completely fried, they are likely to recover, and the new growth should come out without any issues.
Root Rot or Death Glow
I often hear others saying my succulent has the Death Glow. They are referring to the stage where the succulent gets this bright see-through orange color, almost like it’s glowing. That’s normally a sign, that your plant has root rot. Another sign that can give you a clue is seeing the leaves drop easily to the touch, even by just moving the pot. Once it gets to this stage, you would not be able to save the plant. However, it is possible to save some of the leaves to propagate.
If the stem looks black but the leaves look firm, you might be able to save it by beheading the top. You will need to cut the stem as close as possible to the rosette. If you don’t see any dark or mushy texture, then the plant should be able to recover. Once you behead it, allow the stem to callus before placing it in the soil. Do not water until you see new roots.
Overwatering
Overwatering a succulent usually causes root rot, but that’s not always the case. Some succulents with very thick and chunky leaves will show cracks like the picture below. If you ever see those, stop watering them as often. I like to wait until the leaves show signs of wrinkles before watering again. I rather my succulent be underwatered than overwatered.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery Mildew is a fungal disease that spreads very quickly. This, in my opinion, is one of the hardest to deal with. Fungi cannot handle high heat or extremely cold weather. Meaning that temperatures between 70F to 80F are ideal for growth. Also, the spores form in high humidity and spread when the humidity levels drop.
How can you avoid Powdery Mildew? Proper Ventilation is key. Make sure your succulents have good airflow. For example, since I grow my succulents indoors, I have a Gym Fan in the room. I have it on for 12 hours. I know we all love having arrangements of succulents, but giving them enough space in between also helps with the airflow. There are preventive sprays that can also help you avoid it. Plenty of light. Fungus loves dark spaces.
How to treat Powdery Mildew? Personally, I haven’t had to deal with it. I remember one plant having it and I immediately threw it out. I didn’t want to risk losing over 200 succulents. I know that’s not the ideal solution but it was too risky.
From recommendations and books that I have read, there are different ways to treat it. You can use Neem Oil, Copper Fungicide, and Sulfur Fungicides (Spray)
Conclusion
No matter how long you have been collecting plants or how experienced you are, at some point or another you will lose a plant. Nothing to be ashamed of, it happens to the best of us. Learn from the experience, grow, and enjoy them while they last. Always remember, gardening, and collecting plants, should bring you joy, not stress. I always tell my husband that my succulents keep me sane in this crazy world.
If you have any questions please reach out to me via the “Contact Us” link on the website or message us on Instagram.
Big thanks to anyone who shared their pictures with me in order to make this blog possible. If you click on the pictures, it will take you to the pictures owner's Instagram page.
