Fast Growing Succulents: How to Grow and Care for These Beauties

Oleh Erica Erdman IV May 28, 2023 Post a Comment

Succulents are a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardening, thanks to their unique shapes, colors, and low-maintenance needs. However, some people may not realize that there are many fast-growing succulent varieties that can add a burst of life to your garden or home in no time.

In this article, we'll explore the different types of fast-growing succulents, how to care for them, and some tips for growing them successfully.

Types of Fast-Growing Succulents

1. Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)

This succulent is native to Mexico and has plump, jellybean-shaped leaves that change color from green to red when exposed to direct sunlight. It's an easy plant to propagate and grows quickly, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

2. Graptopetalum paraguayense (Ghost Plant)

The ghost plant is a stunning succulent with thick, silvery-blue leaves that form rosettes. It's one of the easiest plants to grow and propagate, making it a popular choice for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.

3. Echeveria elegans (Mexican Snowball)

This succulent has light blue-green leaves that form a rosette shape. It produces offsets quickly, making it an ideal plant for propagation. With proper care, it can grow up to six inches tall and wide.

4. Kalanchoe daigremontiana (Mother of Thousands)

This succulent is named after its ability to produce thousands of tiny plantlets along the edges of its leaves. It's an easy plant to grow and propagate, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

5. Aeonium arboreum (Tree Aeonium)

This succulent has large rosettes of green leaves that turn reddish-purple in full sun. It's a fast-growing plant that can reach up to three feet tall and wide with proper care.

6. Crassula ovata (Jade Plant)

The jade plant is a classic succulent with round, thick leaves that resemble coins. It's easy to grow and propagate, making it a popular choice for beginners. With proper care, it can grow up to six feet tall.

7. Portulacaria afra (Elephant Bush)

This succulent has small, round leaves that resemble the ears of an elephant. It's a fast-growing plant that can reach up to six feet tall with proper care.

8. Sempervivum (Hens and Chicks)

This succulent produces rosettes of fleshy leaves that spread rapidly to form clumps. It's a hardy plant that can tolerate extreme temperatures and drought conditions.

9. Haworthia fasciata (Zebra Plant)

This succulent has dark green leaves with white stripes that resemble zebra stripes. It's a slow-growing plant that can reach up to six inches tall with proper care.

10. Aloe vera (Aloe Plant)

The aloe plant is a common succulent that has long, pointed leaves filled with gel-like sap. It's a fast-growing plant that can reach up to three feet tall with proper care.

How to Care for Fast-Growing Succulents

Soil

Fast-growing succulents need well-draining soil that allows water to flow through quickly. You can use a commercial cactus mix or make your own by mixing equal parts sand, perlite, and peat moss.

Light

Most succulents prefer bright, indirect sunlight, but some fast-growing varieties like the jelly bean plant and jade plant can tolerate direct sunlight. If your succulent isn't getting enough light, it may become leggy and stretched out.

Water

Succulents are adapted to dry, arid conditions and don't need frequent watering. Water your fast-growing succulent only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause root rot and kill your plant.

Temperature

Most succulents prefer warm temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C). Some varieties like the jade plant and aloe vera can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C).

Humidity

Succulents prefer low-humidity environments and don't do well in humid climates. If you live in a humid area, make sure to provide good air circulation around your plants.

Tips for Growing Fast-Growing Succulents Successfully

Use a well-draining soil mix.
Provide bright, indirect sunlight.
Water only when the soil is completely dry.
Protect your plant from extreme temperatures and frost.
Propagate your succulent by taking stem or leaf cuttings.
Fertilize sparingly with a balanced fertilizer.
Keep your plant clean by wiping off any dust or debris.
Repot your succulent every 2-3 years to ensure healthy growth.
Watch for signs of pests like mealybugs or spider mites.
Don't overwater your succulent.

Fast-growing succulents are an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a burst of life to their garden or home quickly. With proper care, these plants can grow rapidly and produce stunning foliage that's sure to impress. Remember to provide well-draining soil, bright, indirect sunlight, and water only when the soil is dry. With these simple tips, you'll be growing beautiful fast-growing succulents in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should I water my fast-growing succulent?

Water your succulent only when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot and kill your plant.

2. Can I grow fast-growing succulents indoors?

Yes, many fast-growing succulent varieties can thrive indoors as long as they have bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil.

3. What kind of soil do fast-growing succulents need?

Fast-growing succulents need well-draining soil that allows water to flow through quickly. You can use a commercial cactus mix or make your own by mixing equal parts sand, perlite, and peat moss.

4. Do fast-growing succulents need fertilizer?

Succulents don't need a lot of fertilizer, but you can fertilize sparingly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.

5. How do I propagate my fast-growing succulent?

You can propagate most fast-growing succulents by taking stem or leaf cuttings and allowing them to root in well-draining soil.

6. What kind of pests do fast-growing succulents attract?

Fast-growing succulents can attract pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Watch for signs of infestation and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

7. Can I grow fast-growing succulents in containers?

Yes, fast-growing succulents can be grown in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.

8. How much light do fast-growing succulents need?

Most fast-growing succulents prefer bright, indirect sunlight, but some varieties like the jelly bean plant and jade plant can tolerate direct sunlight.