Dudleya care guide
Dudleya
Also known as: Chalk lettuce
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Dudleya
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 21 days
- A winter grower: in spring, the end of its season, water once the soil dries, as a guide; taper from May and keep it nearly dry from the rainy season to midsummer, moistening lightly about once a month in the evening.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 10 days
- From late September, once it cools and growth restarts, resume watering and give a thorough drink whenever the soil dries, about every 10 days.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 21 days
- Still growing but drying slowly: water on a mild morning once the soil is dry, roughly every three weeks, keeping water off the leaves.
Light and placement for Dudleya
A winter grower: fall to spring, as much sun and air as possible under the eaves, and in the summer rest a bright, rain-free, breezy shade; generally it stretches indoors, and water or fingers strip the chalky bloom.
Overwintering Dudleya
Overwintering guide: 0°C (32°F) or above
Winter is its growing season: give full daytime sun and, as a guide, avoid only frost and freezing, sheltering it deeper under the eaves or in a cold frame on freezing nights, or at a bright window away from heaters.
Fertilizing and repotting Dudleya
Fertilizer
It needs very little: diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month in fall and spring, none during the summer rest.
When to repot
Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Dudleya
- Watered during the summer rest, it overheats and rots to mush.
- Lower leaves drying up for the summer rest are mistaken for dying and it gets more water.
- Water on the leaves strips the chalk and leaves marks.
Tips for growing Dudleya
- In summer, cut water almost entirely and wait for fall in airy, rain-free shade.
- Leave dried lower leaves until they come away on their own to avoid injuring the base.
- Pour water on the soil and keep hands off the powdery leaves.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
