If you find that your succulent plant has become too tall and leggy, don’t worry, there are several steps you can take to address this issue and encourage a more compact and healthy growth. One of the simplest solutions is to relocate the plant to a southern exposure. This will provide it with more direct sunlight, which is essential for succulents to thrive.
When succulents don’t receive enough light, they tend to stretch out in search of more sun. By moving the plant to a southern exposure, you are ensuring that it receives the maximum amount of sunlight possible. This can help prevent further leggy growth and promote a more compact and sturdy plant.
However, simply moving the plant to a sunnier spot may not be enough to correct the leggy growth that has already occurred. In this case, you can consider topping the succulent. Topping involves cutting off the top portion of the plant that is too tall and allowing new shoots to form from the cut area. This encourages the plant to grow in a more compact and bushy manner.
To top a succulent, you will need a clean and sharp pair of pruning shears or scissors. Before you begin, make sure to disinfect your tools by wiping them with rubbing alcohol to prevent the spread of any potential diseases. Once your tools are clean, follow these steps:
1. Examine the succulent and identify the portion that needs to be removed. Look for the leggy and stretched out growth.
2. Locate a spot on the stem where you want to make the cut. Aim to cut just above a leaf node or joint. This is where new growth will emerge from.
3. Make a clean and precise cut just above the selected leaf node. Take care not to crush or damage the stem.
4. Once you have made the cut, you can choose to remove any leaves from the lower portion of the stem if they look unhealthy or unsightly. However, it’s important to leave a few healthy leaves near the base to support the plant during its recovery.
5. Allow the cut portion to dry and callus over for a few days. This helps prevent rotting when you replant it.
6. After the cut has calloused, you can replant the top portion in well-draining soil. Make sure not to bury it too deeply; just enough to provide stability.
7. Keep the newly planted top portion in a bright but indirect light location for a few weeks to allow it to establish roots. Avoid direct sunlight during this time, as it may cause sunburn on the exposed cut area.
8. Water the plant sparingly during the rooting process, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s crucial to maintain a balance.
Over time, you should start to see new shoots emerging from the cut area, creating a fuller and more compact succulent. It’s important to note that the process of topping and regrowth may take some time, so patience is key. Regularly monitor the plant’s progress and adjust its care accordingly.
In addition to topping, it’s essential to provide proper care to prevent future leggy growth. Ensure your succulent is receiving adequate sunlight, as mentioned earlier, and adjust its watering schedule to meet its specific needs. Succulents generally prefer infrequent but deep waterings, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering and root rot.
If your succulent has become too tall and leggy, consider moving it to a southern exposure for increased sunlight. If the leggy growth has already occurred, you can top the plant by cutting off the excessive height and allowing new shoots to develop. Remember to provide proper care, including sufficient sunlight and appropriate watering, to maintain a compact and healthy succulent.
