Succulent plants have an adorable appearance, being small and compact, making them perfect for placement on desks or window sills.

Their strong adaptability and easy care have attracted an increasing number of enthusiasts in recent years.

Succulents are plants in which at least one of their nutritional organs—roots, stems, or leaves—is fleshy, juicy, and capable of storing large amounts of water. They serve as a reservoir for accessible water, allowing the plant to survive temporarily when soil conditions worsen and roots cannot absorb necessary moisture from the soil. Approximately, there are over 10,000 species of succulent plants worldwide, belonging to more than 100 families, and they also contribute to air purification.

They are also known as “fleshy” or “succulent” plants in horticulture, although the term “succulent plants” is the most commonly used. Succulents are categorized into winter and summer types: winter types grow in winter, spring, and autumn, going dormant in summer, while summer types grow in summer and go dormant in winter. Common succulents belong to families such as Cactaceae, Crassulaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Asphodelaceae, Liliaceae, Rosaceae, Agavaceae, and Asteraceae.

Succulents are generally drought-tolerant, so it's crucial to manage watering. The key is to assess the dryness and wetness of the soil. “Seeing dry” refers to waiting until the soil surface turns pale after the first watering and allowing both the surface and interior soil moisture to deplete before watering again.

It's recommended to check the soil moisture by inserting a finger into the soil; if it's moist, avoid continuous watering as it may cause water accumulation at the bottom, leading to root rot. “Seeing wet” means watering thoroughly each time until water seeps out from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot, avoiding ”half watering“ (wetting the top but leaving the bottom dry).

Utilizing the “seeing dry, seeing wet” method for watering fulfills the water needs for this type of plant growth while ensuring the roots receive the necessary oxygen, promoting robust plant growth.

Generally, most succulents should be watered every 5-7 days during their growth periods in spring and autumn, while during dormancy in winter and summer, watering should occur every 15-20 days or even less frequently.

Succulents originate from desolate, nutrient-poor desert areas, leading many enthusiasts to advocate mimicking their native environment by avoiding or limiting fertilization. However, fertilizers are essential for plant growth. Scientific analysis of burned plant ash reveals significant amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace elements.

Consequently, the conclusion is that the three essential elements for plant growth are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Nitrogen primarily concentrates on the plant's foliage, promoting leaf growth and lush foliage.

Phosphorus focuses on reproductive organs—flowers and fruits—encouraging flower bud differentiation and fruit development. Potassium primarily targets root and stem tissues, enhancing their strength and the plant's resilience against external stressors.

Succulent plants, with their charming appearance and low-maintenance nature, are a delightful addition to any space. Their adaptability, unique characteristics, and the way they mirror nature's resilience make them a favorite among plant enthusiasts. With proper care and a touch of understanding of their needs, succulents thrive, bringing a touch of green joy to our homes and lives.