Description
– Growing Donkey’s Tail Succulents:
1. Challenging to grow indoors despite its sedum family heritage.
2. Fragile and prone to leaf drop.
3. Also known as Burro’s Tail.
– Ideal Growing Conditions:
1. Light Requirements:
– Prefers partial sun or bright shade.
– Thrives in 4 hours of bright light daily.
– Avoid scorching sun; morning sunlight is best.
– Indoor placement in areas with ample sunlight (balcony, sunny window, or patio).
– Bright indoor light in spring for blooming.
– Ensure proper drainage in the pot.
2. Temperature:
– Suitable for outdoor growth in tropical climates year-round.
– Indoors in freezing winter climates.
– Winter temperature: 50-60°F; room temperature in summers.
3. Watering:
– Requires regular watering to maintain plump leaves.
– Water thoroughly, allowing topsoil to dry before the next watering.
– Check soil moisture by sticking a finger 1 inch deep.
– Avoid overwatering to prevent rot.
– Mature plants need more frequent watering; approximately every 14 days.
– Proper Watering:
1. Ensure thorough watering to flush out accumulated salts.
2. Increase watering frequency during the growing season, about every nine days.
3. Clay pots may dry out quicker, so monitor water needs in hot weather.
– Fertilizer and Soil:
1. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done sparingly during the growing season (twice), avoiding winter.
2. Good drainage is essential; use soil that drains quickly.
3. Suggested soil mix: Equal parts of perlite or pumice and potting soil. Add worm castings and compost in spring.
– Pest Control:
1. Rarely prone to pests; aphids can be a concern.
2. Hose off aphids monthly; use a mixture of 4/5 water and 1/5 rubbing alcohol or Neem oil if necessary.
– Propagation:
– Donkey’s tail rarely flowers indoors.
– Propagate through leaf or stem cuttings rather than seeds.
– Propagation Methods:
1. Leaf Cuttings:
– Choose healthy, well-hydrated leaves.
– Let leaves callus for 2-3 days.
– Place on succulent soil, mist when dry.
– New growth in about a week.
2. Stem Cuttings:
– Snip a plump stem (3+ inches).
– Let it callus out of direct sunlight.
– Remove bottom leaves.
– Plant in succulent soil, mist when dry.
– Takes a couple of weeks to root.
– Re-potting Donkey’s Tail:
– Re-pot in a 6-8 inch pot, occasionally refreshing the soil.
– Avoid re-potting mature plants, as they are fragile.
–
Leave feedback about this