Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: Typical water needs for a succulent
Temperature: Zone 10a from 30° F to 35° F (-1.1 ° C to 1.7° C)
Winter Survival: Not cold hardy
Propagation: stem cuttings, seeds
Flower: at the end of summer
Flower Type:
Toxic: Generally non-toxic to humans and animals
Dormant: summer
Space Requirement: Indoors & Outdoors
Common Problems: pests
Where to buy Crassula mesembryanthemoides?
Basc Care for Crassula mesembryanthemoides
Watering
Can you water your succulent more than what its need? The answer is yes and no. In extreme conditions, you can water your plants more often when you notice the soil is completely dry.
One simple tip for you is that you can use some online apps to check the soil status before you go water your succulents. I would recommend the ThePlantsCheck app, it has some nice features there.
Fertilizing
Only feed this succulent during its active growing seasons which means winter. Use the right fertilizer applied in the right amounts. Applying half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so is recommended for optimal results.
Do not fertilize during summer as the plant is dormant.
Sun & Location Requirements for "Crassula mesembryanthemoides"
Crassula mesembryanthemoides does best when placed in an area that receives full sun to partial shade throughout the day. This variety of succulents can tolerate direct sunlight for short periods, but if the temperatures get too high or the light is too intense it may be beneficial to find a shadier spot.
In order to ensure that Crassula mesembryanthemoides survives the winter, insulation and drainage are essential. A layer of mulch or gravel around the plant can help keep the roots warm during cold temperatures. Furthermore, avoiding exposure to wind and sun can reduce the risk of frost damage and promote longevity for your succulent.
Crassula mesembryanthemoides also benefits from some indirect light throughout the day as well, so make sure you give it enough space to soak up light without becoming too exposed to heat.
Propagation
One of the easiest and most popular ways to propagate Crassula mesembryanthemoides is by stem cuttings. This method involves cutting a stem from an existing succulent and planting it in soil to grow a new plant.
Growing Crassula mesembryanthemoides from seeds is an easy and economical way to produce more plants. Identify a healthy seed by its plumpness, dark color and slightly sticky texture. Once the potting mix has been pre-mixed with well-draining soil, sow the seeds evenly and press lightly into the surface. To ensure germination, keep the container in bright but indirect light and mist the soil gently with a spray bottle.
Toxicity
Crassula mesembryanthemoides is generally non-toxic to humans and animals. However, it is important to be aware that certain parts of the plant may contain toxins which can cause mild skin irritation. It is advised that you keep the plants away from small children or pets, as they may unknowingly ingest them and suffer ill effects.
Pests and Diseases
Crassula mesembryanthemoides can be affected common pests and diseases like most of the other succulents such as snails, aphids, mealybugs, and Red spider mites.
If you do spot any of pest signs, you can treat your succulent using below methods.
- Snails: clean infected plants, soapy water.
- Aphids: quarantine, clean infected plants, soapy water.
- Mealybugs: quarantine, clean infected plants, soapy water.
- Red spider mites: Quarantine, clean your infected plants, treatment with a systemic insecticidal/soapy water.
Besides that, to prevent serious health issues from happening, keep your succulent in a well-ventilated area and check it regularly for any signs of pests or health problems.