Echeveria care guide
Echeveria
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 Echeveria
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 14 days
- In spring, water thoroughly about two or three days after the soil dries; from the rainy season through midsummer growth stalls, so give only a light evening drink once or twice a month.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- Fall is the growing season: water well once the soil dries, about weekly, and plenty of sun keeps the rosette tight and brings out the color.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every month
- Once temperatures drop below about 5°C, cut back to a light watering about once a month on a mild morning.
Light and placement for Echeveria
A spring-fall grower that generally does best outdoors under the eaves in sun and moving air, or at the brightest window indoors; shade about 30 to 50 percent in midsummer to prevent scorch, and too little light opens and stretches the rosette.
Overwintering Echeveria
Overwintering guide: 3°C (37°F) or above
It takes near 0°C if kept off frost, but as a guide move it to a bright window or a dry spot under the eaves when nights fall below about 3°C, and keep it on the dry side so the cold does less harm.
Fertilizing and repotting Echeveria
Fertilizer
Diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month in the spring and fall growing seasons, none in midsummer or winter; too much stretches the plant and dulls its color.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Echeveria
- Overwatered in the rainy season or midsummer, it steams at the base and melts away.
- Too little light opens the rosette and stretches the stem.
- Left out in a frost, the leaves go translucent and are damaged.
Tips for growing Echeveria
- Water pooling in the rosette can rot it, so aim at the soil around the base.
- Removing dried lower leaves helps prevent rot and pests.
- If the stem stretches, cut the top, dry it a few days, and replant it to renew the plant.
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.
