Aeoniums are fleshy, succulent plants native to Madeira, the Canary Islands and North Africa. Members of the Crassulaceae family, they have rosettes of glossy, waxy leaves and range in height from a few centimetres to up to a metre. In late winter or spring they may produce clusters of tiny flowers but they are mostly grown for their distinctive, unusual shapes and foliage that comes in shades of green or purple-black or variegated in shades of white, yellow and red.
Aeoniums make excellent, low maintenance house plants that need very little care. They thrive on neglect – allowing the soil to dry out in between watering will make the colours more vibrant and the plant stronger. They look great grown with other succulents or cacti that thrive in similar growing conditions. They can also be grown outdoors in summer, in a pot with summer bedding plants or in a sunny, well-drained border.
The main growing season for aeoniums is spring and autumn, when the temperature and light levels are perfect for their growth. Aeoniums often go dormant in hot periods of the summer – you may notice the rosettes becoming tighter, and the outer leaves drying and dropping off. This perfectly normal. They need less water at this time as they can live off the water and nutrients stored in the leaves and stems.
Aeoniums are monocarpic, which means they die after flowering. However, on branching varieties, only the rosette that produced the flower will die, leaving the rest of the plant to live on. It is a good idea to take cuttings of your aeoniums so that you always have new plants.
Aeonium plants are a gorgeous and unique type of succulent that can make a wonderful addition to any garden. With their striking rosette shapes and lush foliage it’s easy to see why these plants have become so popular. But like with any plant, proper care is essential for your aeonium to thrive. One of the most critical aspects of care is knowing how much watering your aeonium needs. In this comprehensive guide we’ll walk through everything you need to know about watering these beautiful plants.
Understanding Aeoniums
Aeoniums are native to the Canary Islands off the coast of Africa. There are around 35 different species, with some varieties growing just a few inches tall while others can reach up to 6 feet in height. Most aeoniums form compact rosettes of waxy, spoon-shaped leaves that come in various colors like green, red, purple, yellow, and black. During the winter or spring months, tiny star-shaped flowers may bloom from the center of the rosette.
These succulents store water in their fleshy foliage, so they don’t require deep roots to absorb moisture from the soil. While their shallow roots make them prone to getting pot-bound or toppling over, it also means they need less frequent watering than other garden plants But finding the right watering schedule is still essential for the health of your aeonium
How Often To Water Aeoniums
Unlike cacti and some arid succulents, aeoniums do prefer occasional deep soakings rather than tiny sips of water. During their active growing period in the spring and summer, allow the soil to fully dry out before giving them a thorough watering. Then let the soil dry out again before repeating. The exact schedule will vary based on factors like sunlight, temperature, climate, pot size, and plant maturity. But as a general rule, aeoniums need:
- Small pots (4 inches) – Water every 7-10 days
- Medium pots (6-8 inches) – Water every 10-14 days
- Large pots (10+ inches) – Water every 14-21 days
In the winter, aeoniums enter a dormant period where their growth slows down. During this time, cut back on watering but don’t let them completely dry out. Wait until the top inch or two of soil is dry before giving them a light drink.
Potted aeoniums may need more frequent watering than those planted in the ground, as containers dry out quicker. Observe your plant and soil and adjust your schedule as needed. If you live in a very hot, dry climate you may need to water more often. Those in cool, humid environments can likely go longer between waterings.
Watering based on Growth Stage
The water needs of your aeonium will also change depending on what growth stage it’s in:
Seedling Stage: This is when the plant first starts to sprout. Keep the soil moist but not soaked during this crucial establishment period.
Juvenile Stage: As the plant grows roots and leaves, allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. But don’t let it get completely dry or the young plant could shrivel.
Adult Stage: Mature plants can handle longer dry periods. Allow the soil to dry out fully before watering again.
Dormant Stage: Greatly reduce watering to just a light drink every few weeks when soil is very dry.
How To Water Your Aeonium
When it’s time to quench your aeonium’s thirst, water thoroughly until water runs from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This encourages healthy roots to grow downward in search of moisture. Avoid just sprinkling water on the soil surface, as this leads to shallow roots.
The best time of day to water is in the morning, so the foliage has time to dry out in the sun. Wet leaves overnight can lead to fungal diseases. Allow excess water to drain fully from the saucer or garden bed. Never leave aeoniums sitting in waterlogged soil, as this causes deadly root rot.
Water your aeonium at the base of the plant, rather than from above. Getting water on the rosette leaves can lead to spots, scorching or decay. Use room temperature water rather than cold water straight from the tap.
Signs Your Aeonium Needs Water
One advantage of succulents like the aeonium is it’s easy to tell when they need a drink. Look for these signs your plant is thirsty:
- Soil is completely dry when you stick your finger in the pot
- Leaves start looking wrinkled, limp, or deflated
- Foliage lacks its usual sheen and appears dull
- Rosette closes up and leaves curl inward
If you catch the need for water early, the aeonium will perk up again after hydration. But severe dehydration that causes leaves to drop will leave permanent damage on the plant.
Consequences of Overwatering
While aeoniums don’t mind a thorough drenching on occasion, too much moisture can be their downfall. If the soil stays soggy for too long, it chokes off air to the roots and causes them to rot. Signs your plant is getting too much water include:
- Soft, mushy leaves that turn translucent
- Leaves frequently falling off
- Dark spots on leaves
- Wilting even though soil is moist
- Foul odor from the pot
Unfortunately rot cannot be reversed, and an overwatered aeonium usually must be discarded. Always err on the side of underwatering, as this is safer for the plant than overwatering.
Environmental Factors That Impact Watering
When figuring out the best watering schedule, take into account the environment your aeonium is growing in. Here are some key factors to consider:
Sunlight: Aeoniums kept in full sun or under grow lights need more frequent hydration than those in partial shade or indoors. Plants in low light have slower growth and transpiration.
Temperature & Humidity: Hot, dry environments will require more watering. Cool or humid climates allow you to water less frequently.
Air Circulation: Stagnant air causes leaves to transpire and dry out faster. Having a small fan nearby can moderate this effect.
Pot Size & Type: Small pots need more watering than large ones. Porous pots like terracotta dry out quicker than plastic or glazed ceramic.
Soil Type: Sandy soils require more watering than soil containing lots of peat or clay which holds moisture better.
Plant Size & Age: Younger plants are often less drought tolerant and need more water until established. Mature plants can handle longer dry spells.
Season: During summer dormancy, aeoniums barely need any water. In the growing season, increase frequency.
Tips For Healthy Watering
- Check soil moisture before watering, don’t just water on a schedule
- When in doubt, wait an extra day or two before watering again
- Water in the morning so leaves dry out during the day
- Apply water directly to the soil, not the leaves
- Use room temperature water, not cold from the tap
- Always drain excess water from pot or garden after hydrating
- Consider using a moisture meter to take the guesswork out of deciding when to water
The Takeaway
Caring for succulents like the aeonium plant is often a balancing act when it comes to providing just the right amount of water. Follow these tips to determine the optimal watering frequency for your plant’s unique needs. With a little practice, you’ll get the hang of telling when your aeonium is thirsty. Stay vigilant against overwatering, and your plant will flourish for years to come.
How to plant an aeonium
Good drainage is key when planting an aeonium – they suffer in cold, wet compost, which will rot the stem and roots.
A terracotta pot is ideal as it’s porous and allows the soil to dry out between waterings. Ensure the pot has a drainage hole – it’s important that any excess water can drain away. Add a 2-3cm layer of gravel or grit or crocks at the bottom of the pot for drainage, too. Choose a pot that’s the same size as the rootball. A free-draining compost is important, so use a 60:40 mix of peat-free, multi-purpose compost (or a John Innes number 2) and perlite, horticultural grit or sand. You could top the compost with a 1cm layer of horticultural grit, which will help with drainage and avoid the stem rotting.
When planting a flat-topped aeonium such as Aeonium tabuliforme, tilt the pot at an angle so rainwater can drain off it easily outdoors.
If planting an aeonium in the ground, ensure your soil is free draining – sandy soil or a gravel garden is ideal.
In the wild, aeoniums live in hot, dry areas that get occasional heavy downpours. If you’re growing aeoniums indoors, try to replicate this by allowing the soil to dry out completely, then watering thoroughly, letting any excess water drain away. This is a better method than watering little and often. Aeoniums are actively growing in autumn and spring, so reduce watering in summer and winter.
If you’re keeping your aeoniums outside, whether in the garden or in a pot, they should get all the water they need from rainfall.
You can feed your aeonium with a half strength plant food once a month from winter to late spring.
Aeoniums cannot cope with frost but they can cope with low winter temperatures as long as their compost is not wet – try not to let them go lower than 5°C.
How to grow aeoniums
Grow aeoniums in pots in a sunny position outside, or in a bright spot indoors. Aeoniums store water in their leaves and stems and need very little watering. In spring and autumn, water the plant thoroughly, then allow the compost to dry out before watering again – this mimics downpours in their natural habitats. Water more sparingly in summer and winter. Bring plants indoors in autumn to protect them from frost.
More on growing cacti and succulents:
BEST TIPS: HOW TO CARE FOR AEONIUM SUCCULENT PLANTS
FAQ
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