How much sun do succulents need?

Understanding Bright Shade for Succulents

In this video, the speaker explains what bright shade is and why it is important for succulents. They show examples of different levels of shade and how to create bright shade in a hot climate.

What is Bright Shade?

• Bright shade is an area that receives indirect sunlight but still has a good amount of light.

• The distance of plants from the edge of the light determines whether they are in bright shade or dark shade.

• Plants in bright shade are farther away from the edge of the light than those in dark shade.

Creating Bright Shade

• The speaker created a pergola with 50% blockage shade cloth to create more bright shade for their succulents.

• The 50% blockage allows enough sunlight for full sun succulents while protecting them from intense heat.

• Direct sun can still come through areas without shading, so it's important to monitor plants for burning.

Testing Plants in Bright Shade

• The speaker bought two arrangements from Home Depot to test how they will survive the summer heat under bright shade.

• Some plants were previously in full shade and are now stretching out due to being moved into brighter areas.

• The speaker hopes their experience with heat will help keep these plants happy.

Understanding Shade for Succulents

In this section, the speaker explains how to understand shade for succulents and how it affects their growth.

Different Types of Shade

• Bright shade is closer to the edge of the light source, while regular or dark shade is farther away.

• The distance of plants from the edge of the light source determines whether they are in bright or dark shade.

Setting Up Shade for Succulents

• Direct sun can be harmful to succulents, especially in hot climates like Arizona.

• A pergola with 50% blockage shade cloth can create a bright shade environment that allows succulents to get enough sunlight without burning them.

• It's important to watch out for areas where direct sun comes through and make sure it's not happening during the heat of the day as it can burn succulents.

Lighting Setup for Succulents

• Full sun is an ambiguous term and varies depending on location and climate. Succulents labeled as full sun may not tolerate full sun all day long in hot climates like Arizona.

• Pay attention to where light falls in your yard and how it changes throughout the year when growing succulents outside.

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Growing Succulents

In this section, the speaker discusses how to grow succulents and what factors to consider when choosing a location for them.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Location

• Check the light situation in the area where you want to grow succulents. Determine if there is full sun in the morning but then it starts getting shady by around noon or if it is full sun all day or full sun in the heat of the afternoon.

• Choose an area with good drainage as succulents do not like wet feet.

• Consider temperature fluctuations in your area as some succulents are more sensitive than others.

Tips for Growing Succulents

• Use well-draining soil specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.

• Water your succulent only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

• Fertilize your succulent sparingly, about once every two months during its growing season.

• Repot your succulent every two years or so, using fresh soil and a slightly larger pot.

Common Mistakes When Growing Succulents

• Overwatering can lead to root rot and ultimately kill your plant.

• Using regular potting soil instead of well-draining soil formulated for cacti and succulents can cause water retention leading to root rot.

• Placing your succulent in a location with insufficient light can cause it to stretch and become leggy.

Conclusion

Growing succulents requires careful consideration of factors such as light, drainage, temperature, soil type, watering frequency, and fertilization. Avoid common mistakes such as overwatering or using regular potting soil. With proper care and attention, your succulents can thrive for years to come.