Taking care of a tarantula succulent can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. These unique plants have a striking appearance with their long, hairy leaves resembling spider legs. To ensure the health and longevity of your tarantula succulent, there are a few important care tips to keep in mind.
1. Sunlight: Tarantula succulents thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. They need at least 6 hours of sunlight a day to maintain their vibrant colors and compact growth. Place them near a south or west-facing window where they can receive ample sunlight. If you don’t have access to sufficient natural light, you can use artificial grow lights to supplement their lighting needs.
2. Drainage: Proper drainage is crucial for the well-being of tarantula succulents. It’s important to select containers with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom. This helps prevent root rot, which can be fatal to succulents. If you have a container without drainage holes that you really love, consider using a layer of gravel or perlite at the bottom to improve drainage.
3. Soil: Tarantula succulents require well-draining soil to thrive. It’s best to use a cactus and succulent-specific soil mix, readily available at garden centers or you can make your own by combining regular potting soil with coarse sand, pumice, or perlite. This mixture allows excess water to drain quickly and prevents the roots from sitting in wet soil, which can lead to root rot.
4. Watering: Tarantula succulents are drought-tolerant plants and should be watered sparingly. Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes when caring for succulents. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, and then water thoroughly, ensuring that water reaches the roots. It’s better to underwater than overwater, as succulents store water in their leaves and stems.
5. Temperature and Humidity: Tarantula succulents prefer warm temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C). They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but should be protected from frost. As for humidity, these plants are adapted to arid conditions and do well in average household humidity levels. Avoid placing them in overly humid environments, such as bathrooms.
6. Fertilization: Tarantula succulents are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to fertilization. During the growing season, which is typically spring and summer, you can fertilize them once a month using a diluted, balanced, water-soluble fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid overfeeding.
7. Pruning and Propagation: Tarantula succulents may produce long, leggy stems over time. To maintain a compact and bushy appearance, you can prune these stems back. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to remove the excess growth. The pruned stems can be propagated by allowing the cut ends to callous over for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil.
Taking care of a tarantula succulent is not only about providing the right conditions but also observing and getting to know your plant. Each succulent has its own unique needs, so it’s important to monitor its growth and adjust care accordingly. With proper care, your tarantula succulent can be a striking addition to your indoor or outdoor succulent collection.
