Succulents and cacti are beautiful and unique plants that are becoming increasingly popular as home decor. One of the most popular succulents is the Never Never Plant, also known as Baby Tears or Helxine Soleirolii. These plants are known for their delicate foliage and their ability to stand up at night. Many people are curious about how to care for these plants, such as whether they can be overwatered, if they need to be cut back for winter, and if they can be kept in pots. Additionally, many people wonder how to tell if a succulent needs repotting, if tap water can be used to water succulents, if they need rocks at the bottom, and how long they can go without water. In this article, we will explore all of these questions and more to help you care for your Never Never Plant.
Why is it called a never never plant?
The never never plant is a type of succulent that gets its name from its slow-growing, resilient nature. It is a low-maintenance plant that can survive long periods of neglect and still look healthy. It’s called a “never never” plant because it never seems to die, no matter how much neglect it receives. Its thick, fleshy leaves and stems store water, allowing it to survive for long periods without water or sunlight. It’s also known for its ability to quickly recover from damage, making it a popular choice for those who don’t have a lot of time to devote to caring for their plants.
Why do plants stand up at night?
Plants stand up at night as a response to a phenomenon known as “gravitropism.” This is a process by which plants respond to gravity, causing them to grow in a particular direction. During the day, the sun’s light causes the plants to grow up towards the light, and at night, the absence of light causes them to stand up straight. This is due to the fact that the plants are responding to gravity and trying to find the most efficient way to get the most light. By standing up at night, the plant is able to collect more light from the stars and moon, allowing it to photosynthesize more efficiently.
Can you overwater baby tears?
Yes, it is possible to overwater baby tears. Baby tears are a type of plant that prefers moist soil, but too much water can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. When watering baby tears, it is important to check the soil before adding any water. If the soil is already moist, then it is best to wait until it has dried out before giving it any more water. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the pot has adequate drainage so that the excess water can be removed.
Should sedum be cut back for winter?
Yes, sedum should be cut back for winter. This is because cutting back the plant will help it to survive the cold winter months and come back stronger in the spring. If the sedum is not cut back, it can become damaged or even die due to the cold temperatures. Additionally, cutting back the sedum can help to promote new growth in the spring. To cut back sedum, simply trim the stems back to about two inches above the ground. This will help the plant to conserve energy and resources during the cold winter months.
Can sedums stay outside in winter?
Yes, sedums can stay outside in winter. Sedums are hardy perennials that can tolerate cold temperatures and even snow. They are also drought-tolerant and don’t require a lot of water, so they can survive in cold climates with little to no maintenance. In fact, they may even thrive in the winter if they are planted in a sunny location that gets some protection from the wind. In addition, they can be mulched with a layer of straw or pine needles to help insulate them from the cold.
Can you keep sedums in pots?
Yes, you can keep sedums in pots. Sedums are a type of succulent that are known for their hardiness and ability to withstand harsh conditions. They are ideal for pots because they require minimal watering, can thrive in full sun or partial shade, and are not prone to pests or diseases. They also look great in pots, as their unique foliage and bright flowers can really add some color and texture to your garden.
How do I know if my succulent needs repotting?
If you notice that the roots of your succulent are coming out of the drainage holes of the pot, it’s a sign that it’s time to repot. Additionally, if the soil seems to be drying out too quickly, or the plant is growing too large for the pot, it’s likely time to repot. When you repot, choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. This will give the roots more space to grow, and help the succulent to thrive.
Can you water succulents with tap water?
Yes, you can water succulents with tap water. However, it is important to remember that tap water can contain minerals and other substances that can build up in the soil of succulents over time and cause them harm. To prevent this, it is best to use filtered tap water or to let the tap water sit for a few days before using it to allow the minerals to settle. In addition, it is important to water succulents only when the soil is dry, as overwatering can cause root rot.
Do succulents need rocks at the bottom?
Yes, succulents need rocks at the bottom of their pots. Rocks help with drainage and aeration, allowing excess water to escape the pot and preventing root rot. Rocks also provide a buffer between the soil and the pot, allowing air to circulate and preventing the pot from becoming too hot. Additionally, the rocks can help keep the soil in place and prevent it from washing away.
How long can succulents go without water?
Succulents are remarkably resilient and can go for quite some time without water. Depending on the species, succulents can survive anywhere from a few days to several weeks without water. For example, cacti can usually go two to three weeks without water while succulents with thinner leaves may need to be watered every few days. In general, succulents should be watered when the soil is completely dry to the touch. They are also sensitive to overwatering, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and wait until the soil is completely dry before watering.
The never never plant is so named because of its slow growth rate. Plants stand up at night because of their natural circadian rhythm, which helps them adjust their position to maximize light exposure. Baby tears should not be overwatered, as they are prone to root rot. Sedum should be cut back for winter in colder climates, but can stay outside in winter in warmer climates. Sedums can be kept in pots and should be repotted when their roots become cramped. Succulents can be watered with tap water, but should be allowed to sit for 24 hours prior to use to allow the chlorine to evaporate. Succulents do not need rocks at the bottom of their pots, and can generally go without water for up to two weeks.