Because of their low care requirements and distinctive look, succulents have become very popular as indoor or outdoor plants. The necessity for sunlight for succulents to grow, however, is one of the most often asked topics about them. Succulents are renowned for their capacity to withstand a variety of environmental factors, but sunlight is essential to their development and general wellbeing. In this blog article, we will examine the role that sunlight plays in the survival of succulents and provide some advice on how to make sure they get the correct amount of sunlight.
Do Succulents Need Sun?
Succulents need sun light to survive. While they typically need 6 hours of sun every day, each species has different requirements. Issues including elongation, fading hues, and weakening structures might result from a lack of sunlight.
It is important to remember that succulents may sometimes suffer from too direct sunlight. Sunburn may result from prolonged exposure to strong sunlight and appears as brown patches or white dots on the leaves. Sunburn may cause tissue damage and, in extreme situations, plant death. It is advisable to provide succulents filtered or indirect sun light, particularly during the warmest times of the day, to avoid sunburn. Succulents might benefit from being placed in shady outdoor settings or next to windows with sheer curtains to shield them from too much sun.
You can still grow succulents even if your region receives little sunlight. Some varieties of succulents can flourish indoors because they are adapted to low light levels. These species include the zebra plant, Sansevieria (also known as the snake plant), and Zamioculcas zamiifolia (also known as the ZZ plant). These plants have modified their leaf size or developed thicker leaves to increase their capacity to absorb light in order to survive in low-light conditions. To sustain their health and development, these plants nevertheless need a little amount of sunlight.
| Succulent Species | Sunlight Requirements |
|---|---|
| Echeveria | 6 hours of direct sun |
| Sedum | 6 hours of direct sun |
| Aloe Vera | 6 hours of direct sun |
| Crassula Ovata | 4-6 hours of indirect sun |
| Haworthia | 4-6 hours of indirect sun |
| Sansevieria (Snake Plant) | Low to medium indirect or filtered light |
| Gasteria | Low to medium indirect or filtered light |
| Zamioculcas zamiifolia | Low to medium indirect or filtered light |
| Agave | Full sun to partial shade |
| Kalanchoe | Full sun to partial shade |
| Sempervivum | Full sun to partial shade |
| Portulacaria afra | Full sun to partial shade |
| Senecio serpens | Full sun to partial shade |
| Dudleya | Full sun to partial shade |
| Adromischus | Full sun to partial shade |
Can Succulents Live Inside Without Sunlight?
Succulents may survive indoors with little sunlight, but without enough illumination, they will not grow. To guarantee their healthy development, it is essential to provide them access to sufficient natural or artificial light sources.
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Indoor succulents that don’t get enough light sometimes show indications of stress as straining, yellowing, or leaf discoloration. They could also completely cease growing, weaken, and develop a susceptibility to disease and pests. As a result, it’s critical to comprehend your succulent species’ lighting needs and provide them the light they need to survive inside.
Artificial lighting may be used to augment natural illumination if you reside somewhere with little access to it. Indoor succulents benefit greatly from the use of LED grow lights since they provide the whole spectrum of light required for photosynthesis, as well as being durable and energy-efficient. Fluorescent lights may also be used, however they might not be as beneficial for succulents as LED lights.
Indoor succulents need enough sunlight, well-draining soil, regular watering, and the right temperatures to grow. Given that excessive watering may result in root rot and other fungal diseases, succulents prefer soil that drains fast. So before watering again, it’s crucial to let the soil completely dry out low. Similar to the temperature range seen in most houses, indoor succulents likewise prefer temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
| Succulent Species that can survive indoor low light | Succulent Species that can survive harsh sun |
|---|---|
| Sansevieria (Snake Plant) | Aloe Vera |
| Haworthia | Sedum |
| Zamioculcas zamiifolia | Echeveria |
| Gasteria | Agave |
| Aloe Vera | Kalanchoe |
| Peperomia obtusifolia | Sempervivum |
| Aspidistra elatior | Portulacaria afra |
| Epiphyllum oxypetalum | Senecio serpens |
| Crassula ovata | Dudleya |
| Rhipsalis baccifera | Adromischus |
The Best Ways to Make Succulents Last Longer Without Light
- Put them next to a window with good light that gets some filtered sunlight.
- To complement natural light, use grow lights or LED lights, making sure the light source is near enough to the plants.
- To guarantee balanced lighting distribution and minimize tilting, rotate the plants often.
- Select succulents for low light environments that can withstand little sunlight better than others.
How Much Sunlight Do Succulents Need?
Although each species has different needs, most succulents require 6 hours of sunlight per day. While some succulents, like Crassula and Echeveria, benefit from strong, direct sunlight, Haworthia and Sansevieria favor filtered or indirect light.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that succulents may be sensitive to strong sunlight, and continuous exposure to it might result in sunburn, which can look like white or brown spots or patches on the leaves. Succulents benefit from filtered or indirect sun light, particularly during the warmest times of the day, to avoid sunburn. Succulents might benefit from being placed in shady outdoor settings or next to windows with sheer curtains to shield them from too much sun.
Succulents go into a dormant condition throughout the winter, so they need less sun. To avoid overexposure to sunlight at this period, you may need to make changes to the lighting and positioning of your succulent. To avoid root rot and other fungal infections at this time, you should also water your plants less.
What Happens if Succulents Don’t Get Sun?
Insufficient sunlight can cause several problems for succulents:
1. Inconspicuous leaves and lengthy stalks
Succulents will stretch out to seek more light if there isn’t enough sun, which will lead to longer stems and few leaves.
2. Rosettes becoming flatter
In an effort to expose more surface area to the light, rosette-shaped succulents may flatten when not receiving enough sunlight.
3. Color Fading
Lack of sunlight causes a lot of succulents to lose their vivid hues and become pale or green.
4. the lowest leaves bending
The bottom leaves of a succulent may arch downward in response to insufficient sunlight.
How Do I Know If Succulent Get Enough Sunlight?
A healthy succulent that receives enough sunlight will grow compactly, keep its color and form, and grow evenly without leaning. Consider relocating your succulent to a brighter place or providing it with more artificial light if it displays symptoms of inadequate sunlight, such as elongation, fading colors, or arching leaves.
| Succulent Species | Light Requirements | Watering Needs | Soil Type | Mature Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Echeveria | Full sun to partial shade | Low to moderate | Well-draining, porous | 6-12 inches |
| Sedum | Full sun to partial shade | Low to moderate | Well-draining, sandy | 6-12 inches |
| Aloe Vera | Full sun to partial shade | Low to moderate | Well-draining, gritty | Up to 3 feet |
| Crassula Ovata | Indirect to direct sun | Low to moderate | Well-draining, sandy | Up to 3 feet |
| Haworthia | Indirect to direct sun | Low to moderate | Well-draining, sandy | 3-8 inches |
| Sansevieria (Snake Plant) | Low to medium indirect or filtered light | Low to moderate | Well-draining, sandy | 2-4 feet |
| Gasteria | Low to medium indirect or filtered light | Low to moderate | Well-draining, sandy | Up to 12 inches |
| Zamioculcas zamiifolia | Low to medium indirect or filtered light | Low to moderate | Well-draining, sandy | Up to 3 feet |
| Agave | Full sun to partial shade | Low to moderate | Well-draining, sandy | Up to 6 feet |
| Kalanchoe | Full sun to partial shade | Low to moderate | Well-draining, sandy | Up to 18 inches |
| Sempervivum | Full sun to partial shade | Low to moderate | Well-draining, gritty | Up to 6 inches |
| Portulacaria afra | Full sun to partial shade | Low to moderate | Well-draining, sandy | Up to 6 feet |
| Senecio serpens | Full sun to partial shade | Low to moderate | Well-draining, sandy | 6-12 inches |
| Dudleya | Full sun to partial shade | Low to moderate | Well-draining, sandy | Up to 2 feet |
| Adromischus | Full sun to partial shade | Low to moderate | Well-draining, sandy | 4-8 inches |
Do Succulents Need Sun in Winter?
Succulents need sun light in the winter, however their needs may fluctuate owing to fewer days and reduced light intensity. During the winter, it’s critical to keep an eye on your succulents and modify the lighting as necessary.
How Winter Cold Affects Succulents
Depending on how hardy they are, succulents may be affected differently by cold temperatures:
Soft Succulents
Succulents that are soft should not be exposed to cold temperatures since they are not frost-tolerant. To avoid harm, move them inside or provide more insulation.
Hardy Succulents
Succulents that are hardy may withstand lower temperatures, but they still need adequate care, such as soil that drains effectively, to avoid rotting during the winter hibernation.
How much sun do succulents need outdoors?
Outdoor succulents normally need 6 hours of sun each day, although exact needs vary by species and regional environment. While some succulents prefer indirect light or partial shade, others do best in direct sunlight.
It’s crucial to remember that outdoor succulents, particularly in hot areas, may suffer damage from too much direct sunlight. Sunburn may result from prolonged exposure to strong sunlight and can appear as brown patches or white dots on the leaves. Succulents benefit from filtered or indirect sun light, particularly during the warmest times of the day, to avoid sunburn. Succulents may be shielded from excessive sun exposure by being placed in partly shaded places, below trees or shrubs, or by using shade cloth.
It’s important to take into account the local environment and weather conditions while growing succulents outside. While some species of succulents prefer dry, hot climates, others do best in cooler coastal areas. You may need to take extra precautions to safeguard your outdoor succulents if you live in a region with severe or unpredictable weather, such as high heat or cold, powerful winds, or heavy rain. These might involve using frost cloth, bringing pots indoors during severe weather, or picking species that are more resistant to the elements.
Outdoor succulents need sunlight as well as soil that drains properly and regular watering to flourish. Given that excessive watering may result in root rot and other fungal diseases, succulents prefer soil that drains fast. As a result, it’s crucial to let the soil totally dry out in between watering sessions. You may need to water more often when it’s hot and dry, but be cautious not to overwater. Watering in the morning or the evening might also aid in reducing water loss due to evaporation.
Growing Succulents Along the California Coast
Numerous succulents can be grown outdoors all year long in California due to its mild coastal climate. In this habitat, succulents like Dudleya, Aeonium, and Echeveria often flourish. Protect them from harsh heat or cold and provide them soil that drains properly.
Growing Succulents in the Sonoran Desert
Some succulents may struggle in the intense heat and sunlight of the Sonoran Desert. However, many indigenous species, including Agave, Ferocactus, and Opuntia, have evolved to thrive in these environments. To avoid sunburn, plant them in soil that drains well and provide some shade during the warmest hours of the day.
Succulents In Direct Sun
Some species of Echeveria and succulents like Sedum and Sempervivum can withstand direct sunlight. As sudden exposure to the sun can result in sunburn, make sure they are acclimated to it gradually.
Shaded or Indirect Sunlight Succulents
Sansevieria, Haworthia, and other succulents like filtered or indirect light. To shield them from direct sunlight, put them in partial shade or behind a larger plant.
How much sun do succulents need indoors?
Although each species has different requirements, indoor succulents typically need at least six hours of sun per day. To guarantee appropriate illumination, put them next to a window with natural light or add artificial lighting.
It’s important to remember, however, that since indoor illumination is often more potent and concentrated than natural sunlight, indoor succulents are typically more prone to sunburn than outdoor succulents. Long-term exposure to direct sunlight may cause leaves to become brown or white and finally drop off. As a result, it’s crucial to give your indoor succulents filtered or indirect sunlight, particularly during the warmest times of the day.
A good technique to provide your indoor succulents the appropriate light is to combine artificial light with natural light. Due to its energy-efficiency and durability, LED grow lights are a popular option for indoor gardening since they provide the spectrum of light needed for photosynthesis. They come in a variety of sizes and forms to meet the demands of your indoor garden.
Indoor succulents need enough illumination as well as well-draining soil and regular watering to grow. Given that excessive watering may result in root rot and other fungal diseases, succulents prefer soil that drains fast. So before watering again, it’s crucial to let the soil completely dry out low. If the soil feels dry up to the first knuckle when you stick your finger into it to check the moisture level, it’s time to water the succulent.
What Exposure Do Indoor Succulents Need?
Because direct sunlight can lead to sunburn, indoor succulents should be placed close to a bright window with indirect sunlight. The best windows for getting enough light often face east or west.
Which Succulents Grow Well Indoors?
Haworthia, Sansevieria, and Zebra plant are examples of succulents that thrive inside. These species typically adapt better than others to lower light levels.
Increasing lighting for succulents
Consider utilizing grow lights or LED lights to complement natural light if your indoor succulents need extra illumination. Place the light source near to the plants, and rotate it often to maintain uniform illumination.
How to Care for Succulents in Winter
Because they are dormant during the winter, succulents may need less water. Reduce the frequency of watering, keep an eye on the plants, and make sure they get enough light by moving them about or adding artificial light sources.
Succulent care may be difficult in the winter because of the decreased sunlight and lower temperatures, which can lead plants to go dormant or even die. It’s crucial to modify your care regimen in order to promote healthy development and avoid harm.
The quantity of water your succulents need is among the most crucial factors to take into account throughout the winter. Succulents are more drought-resistant than other plants because they store water in their leaves and stems. However, because of their dormancy during the winter, they might need less water. Follow the plants attentively and decrease the frequency of watering as necessary, letting the soil dry out in between watering sessions. Avoid overwatering, which may result in root rot and other fungal infections.
During the winter, succulents need sufficient light in addition to appropriate watering. Even while they may need less sunlight than they would in other seasons, they nevertheless need enough light to support strong development. Place your plants near windows or add artificial lighting to help them absorb more light. Indoor succulents benefit greatly from LED grow lights since they provide the whole spectrum of light required for photosynthesis, as well as being durable and energy-efficient.
Last but not least, make sure your succulents are kept warm enough over the winter. The typical temperature range for dwellings is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which is comparable to the range that succulents like. Avoid putting them next to drafty windows or doors as this may stress and harm the plants.
Do succulents need a lot of sun?
Species-specific requirements for succulents vary, but they typically need 6 hours of sunlight every day. While some succulents require direct sunlight to grow, others prefer filtered or indirect light.
It’s crucial to keep in mind however that succulents may potentially get damaged by too direct sunlight. Sunburn may result from prolonged exposure to strong sunlight and appears as brown patches or white dots on the leaves. Sunburn may cause tissue damage and, in extreme situations, plant death. Succulents benefit from filtered or indirect sun light, particularly during the warmest times of the day, to avoid sunburn. Succulents might benefit from being placed in shady outdoor settings or next to windows with sheer curtains to shield them from too much sun.
Low-light succulents
Some low-light succulents that can tolerate less sunlight include:
- Haworthia attenuata
- Sansevieria trifasciata
- Gasteria batesiana
- Aspidistra elatior
- Zamioculcas zamiifolia
- Aglaonema
- Aloe vera
- Cissus antarctica
- Crassula ovata
- Dracaena deremensis
- Echeveria agavoides
- Epiphyllum oxypetalum
- Faucaria tigrina
- Gasteraloe beguinii
- Graptopetalum paraguayense
- Graptoveria debbie
- Gymnocalycium mihanovichii
- Hoya carnosa
- Kalanchoe luciae
- Lithops
- Mammillaria vetula
- Peperomia obtusifolia
- Pilea peperomioides
- Rhipsalis baccifera
- Sedum rubrotinctum
- Senecio rowleyanus
- Tradescantia zebrina
- Zebra haworthia
- String of pearls (Curio rowleyanus)
- Euphorbia milii
Final Thoughts – Yes, Succulents Need Sun
In conclusion, succulents need sun light to survive and keep their distinctive forms and vivid colors. It is crucial for their general health and wellbeing to provide them with enough sunlight or supplement with artificial light sources. Understanding and meeting the unique lighting demands of each species can help to keep your succulents healthy and attractive.
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