Students from out-of-town often leave behind their furry friends at home when attending post-secondary.
Pets are not only heavily restricted in most residences, it’s also incredibly difficult to care for another life as a busy student.
But those seeking a companion are in luck, because there’s a trendy plant that’s perfect for busy students.
Succulents are low-maintenance, cheap, and it looks epic. It can jazz up a boring room while adding some greenery indoors.
Origin
According to Robin Pero, the owner of Grow & Bloom Co., a succulent is a “…plant with parts that are thick and fleshy to retain water.”
Pero tells X FM News succulents got their name from a Latin word meaning “juice or sap.”
There are over 200 species of succulents, and most call the desert their native home.
Larger breeds such as baobab trees can grow up to 30 metres tall, and flatter ones such as aeoniums can stretch wider than a car tire.
Purposes
Certain species of succulents carry medicine properties, according to plant expert Grace Goble, who’s also the owner of Floral Theory Inc.
“The liquid that’s inside aloe vera plants is used to help with sunburns, however it’s funny because aloes themselves can get a sunburn if they have too much sun.”
Goble tells us succulents can also purify air, perfect for tiny dorm rooms.
Succulents are also scentless, which is ideal for those with scent sensitivities.
Care
These plants are relatively simple to maintain, but there are still rules to abide by to ensure the succulent is getting its proper care.
Water
Succulents require minimal watering, however, Pero advises succulent parents to make sure they’re not simply misting.
“The problem with [misting] is the roots won’t get any water, and eventually, they’ll break down and disappear overtime.”
Goble is putting out a warning to not over-water succulents, because when the roots drown in water, it can damage and potentially kill the plant.
On average, giving a succulent a tablespoon or two of water every 2-3 weeks is ideal.
Sunlight
“Succulents love bright lights!” says Gobel. “A few hours of direct sunlight is helpful, but as long as its bright and more diffused light, that’s great.”
But just like aloe vera, too much sun is not too fun for succulents.
Soil
Cactus soil is the best option to use for succulents, according to Pero.
She says cactus soil contains the proper nutrients most succulents require, and can keep the plant healthier for a longer period of time.
Signs of Illness
Gobel tells X FM News succulents can get sick occasionally due to improper care or genetic issues.
Symptoms of illness include:
- Succulents with natural green leaves developing brown or yellow ones
- Bugs crawling on plant
- Leaves falling off
- Soggy leaves
The best way to cure an ill succulent is to monitor its conditions, and adjust its care routine accordingly.
Perhaps water them less if they’re overwatered, or move them away from a bright window if they’re getting sunburnt.
If proper care is provided consistently, a succulent can live a long and happy life of up to 50 years!
