Plant Care
- Light: Crassula sarmentosa thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some direct sunlight. It performs best with at least 4-6 hours of light daily. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf burn, while too little light can lead to leggy growth.
- Watering: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. This succulent is drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot, so ensure proper drainage and avoid waterlogging.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix, such as a cactus or succulent mix. Adding perlite or coarse sand can further improve drainage, essential for preventing root rot.
- Temperature: Crassula sarmentosa prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 40°F (4°C) but should be protected from frost and extreme heat.
- Humidity: This plant prefers low to moderate humidity. It adapts well to typical indoor environments and does not require high humidity to thrive.
- Fertilization: Fertilize sparingly with a balanced, diluted fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth and may reduce the plant’s natural form.
- Container: Choose a container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Hanging baskets or shallow pots work well for this trailing plant, allowing its stems to cascade naturally.
- Pruning: Prune to remove dead or damaged leaves and to control the plant’s shape. Regular pruning encourages denser growth and helps maintain its attractive form. Pinching back the stems can promote bushier growth.
- Propagation: Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus for a day or two before planting in well-draining soil. Keep the soil slightly moist until roots develop.
- Pests: Generally pest-resistant but can occasionally be susceptible to aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent damage.
- Support: This plant does not require support. Its natural trailing habit makes it ideal for use in hanging baskets, as ground cover, or cascading over the edges of containers.
