Know all the tips and tricks to keep a Bear Paw succulent plump & healthy all year. Right here, we have sorted everything for you!
The Bear Paw Succulent (Cotyledon tomentosa) is an adorable succulent, well-known for its chubby and fuzzy leaves that resemble a bear’s paw! Besides, it needs proper care according to its unique needs to thrive. Learn all the tricks to keep it plump & healthy as you read along!
Tricks to Keeping a Bear Paw Succulent Plump & Healthy All Year
1. Lighting Conditions Matter
When you aim to maintain its lushness, you need bright light. Aim for at least 6 hours of soft indirect sunlight every day, that is available in the morning and evening hours. Avoid the harsh rays in the afternoon to prevent sunburn.
If you are growing it indoors indoors, make the east or west-facing window its favorite spot! Additionally, rotate it regularly to ensure the plant receives even light distribution to prevent leggy or stunted growth.
Caution: Bear Paw succulents are prone to leggy growth when they do not receive enough light so keep a lookout.
2. Hold Your Hands Off Watering!
Overwatering is the most common mistake with Bear Paw Succulents since they are sensitive to overly moist conditions. In fact, too much moisture in the soil leads to root rotting.
Moreover, since it is a drought-tolerant plant and stores water in its foliage, it prefers to stay on the drier side. So, allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
3. Sandy or Gritty Soil in a Suitable Pot
Sandy or a gritty medium is a must if you want to keep succulents alive! The best choice is to use a cactus potting mix and add perlite or coarse sand to enhance water drainage and prevent root rot.
Besides, opt for pots with proper drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Further, terracotta pots are beneficial as they absorb moisture, aiding in preventing overwatering issues.
4. Need for Frost Protection and Temperature Maintenance
Native to South Africa, Bear Paw Succulents prefer warm and dry conditions. They thrive best in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C) but can tolerate as low as 41°F (5°C) for short periods. So, protecting them from frost is necessary to prevent scarring.
The lethal temperature ranges from 21°F to 14°F (-6°C to -10°C). If you live in regions prone to frost, grow them in a greenhouse or conservatory, in pots. Moreover, it’s advisable to keep the plant indoors during those months.
5. Know When to Feed
The best time to fertilize your Bear Paw plant is during the growing season, which is typically in the spring and summer months. You can use a balanced, water-soluble succulent fertilizer diluted to half-strength once a month.
Avoid feeding during the dormant period. Since the plant’s growth slows down in this time excess nutrients can lead to issues.
6. Active Pruning Sessions
Regularly remove dead or shriveled leaves to maintain the plant’s appearance and health. Also, pruning should be done during the spring or early summer when it is actively growing.
Use a sharp, clean pair of pruning shears. Start off by removing all dead or damaged leaves, stems, or flowers.
Pro Tip: Make sure to cut the stem just above a leaf node or where it meets another stem. This will encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.
7. Regular Pest Management
Generally, they are very resilient, but sometimes Bear Paw Succulents can attract pests like mealybugs and aphids. So, regularly inspect your plant, especially under the leaves. If pests are detected, treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Tip: Ensure good air circulation indoors as it helps to avoid overwatering and can prevent infestations.
There you go! Everything you need is listed, and now it is your turn to put these tips into action and grow the plumpest and most luscious Bear Paw succulents in your home and garden. And do share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
