If this question is running through your mind, ‘How Big Do Succulents Get?’ then this article is for you to find the exact answer along with interesting tips!
Succulents come in all shapes and sizes, but do succulents get big? With the right care—like plenty of light, the right amount of water, and a good environment—your plants could grow bigger than you might think. Let’s learn the tricks to make them bigger!
Factors That Affect Succulent Growth
1. Light
Light helps succulents stay fit and grow strong! They need sunlight to make food (photosynthesis), and without enough light, they might start reaching for the sky, becoming long and leggy. You should aim to give them bright, indirect light for the best results, just avoid so much sunlight as it could cause a sunburn, too!
Do try to use this easy trick that rotates your succulents every few weeks so all sides get equal light. This keeps them growing evenly and looking their best!
2. Water
As we already know, succulents need water, but in moderation. The best approach is to water them only when the soil is completely dry. Here is a simple tip—Stick your finger in the soil, If you feel it dry, it’s time to water!
3. Soil and Nutrients
Going for the right soil is obviously like building a strong foundation for your house. Succulents love well-draining soil, which keeps their roots dry and happy. Regular garden soil holds too much moisture and can lead to root rot.
Use soil mixes made especially for succulents and cacti, which usually include a mix of sand, perlite, and some organic matter. And if you want to give your plants a little boost, use a diluted fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
You can add a layer of pebbles on top of the soil that not only looks pretty but also helps with drainage. It’s a tip that always works!
4. Pot Size—Does Size Matter?
Yes, it matters! When it comes to succulents, pot size can make a big difference. A small pot can keep your plant small, kind of like wearing shoes that are a size too small. But a bigger pot gives the roots more room to spread out, which can lead to a bigger plant. Repotting your succulent into a slightly larger pot every year or so can encourage steady growth!
5. Environment
Where your succulents live plays a big role in how they grow. Outdoor succulents often grow larger because they get more light and fresh air. Indoor succulents may grow slower, but they can still thrive with the right care. Just keep them in a spot where temperatures stay between 60-80°F, and avoid places with extreme heat or cold.
If you can, let your plants enjoy some time outdoors in the warmer months. They’ll love the fresh air and extra light! Although some succulents can handle chilly weather, most prefer it warm.
Types of Succulents and How Big They Can Grow
1. Tall Succulents
These are the skyscrapers of the succulent world. Tall succulents like the Snake Plant and Kalanchoe can grow several feet high. With enough light and room to stretch, these guys are like a cherry on the cake for your home. Some species of Snake Plants have been known to grow over 6 feet tall!
2. Spreader Succulents
Spreaders like Sedum and Aloe grow horizontally which is why they are perfect for covering large areas. While they might not grow very tall, they can spread out over a few feet that can have that potential to make any garden lush and look like a beautiful green carpet. Aloe vera isn’t just great for sunburns but also a champion when it comes to spreading out!
3. Trailing Succulents
These are the ones you want in hanging baskets. Succulents like the String of Pearls and Ceropegia Woodii have long, trailing stems that can cascade several feet down. They’re perfect for your porch or balcony.
Did you know the String of Pearls can grow vines up to 3-4 feet long? It’s like a waterfall of green beads.
4. Compact Succulents
If you like the smaller sizes only, then succulents like Haworthia and Lithops are for you.These little guys are perfect for small pots, windowsills, or even terrariums. They grow slowly and maintain a neat, compact shape.
Final Words
How big your succulents can get depends on the care you give them. But remember that there are some succulents that are naturally small, so we can’t expect them to grow big as we already talk about them. So, have you grown a giant succulent or thought about growing one in the future? We’d love to hear your experiences and tricks in the comments below.
