Sleepy Succulents: List of Succulents Dormant in Summer

Succulents are beloved for their resilience and unique appearance, but they have different growing cycles, with some going dormant during the summer. Understanding these cycles is crucial for proper care. This guide explores summer dormant succulents, provides a list of them, and offers tips on how to care for these plants during their dormancy.

What is Dormancy in Succulents?

Dormancy in succulents is a survival mechanism where the plant slows down its growth and metabolic activities in response to unfavorable environmental conditions. This can be triggered by extreme temperatures, drought, or other stress factors. During dormancy, succulents conserve energy and resources until conditions improve.

Summer Dormant Succulents

Summer dormant succulents are those that go into a resting phase during the hottest months of the year. This adaptation allows them to survive extreme heat by reducing their need for water and nutrients. These succulents typically resume active growth in the cooler months of fall and winter.

List of 6 Summer Dormant Succulents

1. Aeonium

Aeoniums are distinctive succulents known for their striking rosette shapes that resemble large, fleshy flowers. During the summer, Aeoniums enter a dormant phase to survive the intense heat. They reduce their metabolic activities, conserving water and energy. Aeoniums thrive in mild winter climates and typically resume active growth in cooler, more temperate conditions. In their dormant state, they may appear wilted or lose some of their lower leaves, which is a natural adaptation to reduce water loss.

2. Aloe

Aloe species are well-loved for their medicinal properties and unique forms. While many Aloes remain active year-round, several species go dormant during the summer. This dormancy is a survival strategy to cope with the heat and scarcity of water. During this period, Aloes minimize their growth and water requirements, conserving energy until the cooler temperatures of fall and winter return. Signs of dormancy in Aloes include reduced growth and a more compact appearance. Notable summer dormant Aloe species include Aloe nobilis and Aloe aristata.

3. Haworthia

Haworthias are small, rosette-forming succulents that are popular for their attractive, patterned leaves. These plants enter dormancy during the summer months to protect themselves from extreme heat. In dormancy, Haworthias slow down their growth significantly. They are adapted to cooler conditions and grow actively during the winter months. Care during dormancy includes reducing watering and providing shade to prevent sunburn on their delicate leaves.

4. Gasteria

Gasterias, closely related to Haworthias, also enter dormancy during the summer. These succulents are known for their thick, tongue-shaped leaves that often have interesting textures and patterns. Gasterias prefer cooler growing conditions and show active growth in the winter. During the summer dormancy, it's essential to reduce watering and keep them in a shaded area to prevent overheating and stress.

5. Sempervivum

Commonly referred to as "hens and chicks," Sempervivums are hardy succulents that form tight, rosette clusters. They are well adapted to survive extreme weather conditions, including hot summers. Sempervivums enter a dormant phase in summer, reducing their metabolic activities to conserve water and energy. They thrive in cooler climates and grow actively during the spring and fall. During dormancy, their leaves may appear more compact and less vibrant.

6. Crassula

Crassula species, such as the popular Jade Plant (Crassula ovata), often slow down during the summer. These succulents have thick, fleshy leaves that store water, allowing them to survive periods of drought. In the summer dormancy phase, Crassulas reduce their growth and water intake. They become more active during the cooler months, resuming normal growth patterns. It's important to adjust watering schedules and provide adequate shade to support them during their dormant period.

How to Care for Summer Dormant Succulents

Caring for summer dormant succulents requires a different approach compared to their active growing phase. Here are some essential tips:

Watering

• Reduce Watering: During dormancy, succulents need significantly less water. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Water sparingly and only when the soil is completely dry.

• Avoid Mist Spraying: Unlike some plants, succulents do not benefit from misting. It can lead to fungal issues as their natural habitats are typically dry.

Light and Temperature

• Provide Shade: Protect summer dormant succulents from direct, intense sunlight. Partial shade or filtered light is ideal to prevent sunburn.

• Maintain Stable Temperatures: Ensure that the temperature around your succulents remains stable. Extreme temperature fluctuations can stress the plants further.

Soil and Fertilization

• Well-Draining Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix to prevent water from pooling around the roots. This helps mimic their natural environment and prevents root rot.

• Hold Off on Fertilizers: Avoid fertilizing during dormancy. Fertilizers encourage growth, which can stress the plant when it should be resting.

General Maintenance

• Monitor for Pests: Regularly check your succulents for pests such as aphids and mealybugs. Dormant plants can still be vulnerable to infestations.

• Minimal Disturbance: Avoid repotting or significantly disturbing the plants during their dormant phase as they are in a sensitive state.

Recognizing Dormancy in Succulents

Understanding the signs of dormancy can help you provide better care:

• Slowed Growth: Noticeably reduced or halted growth is a primary indicator of dormancy.

• Leaf Changes: Some succulents might shed leaves or show signs of stress such as leaf wrinkling.

• Reduced Water Uptake: Dormant succulents will take up less water, making it crucial to adjust your watering routine accordingly.

Recognizing and adapting to the dormancy cycles of your succulents can significantly improve their health and longevity. By providing the right care during their summer dormancy, you ensure they conserve energy and are ready to thrive when they resume active growth. Whether you’re a seasoned succulent enthusiast or a beginner, understanding these seasonal needs will help you maintain a vibrant and healthy succulent collection.

Fern's Leafy Learnings

• Understanding Dormancy: Dormancy is a natural response to extreme conditions, allowing succulents to conserve energy.

• Watering Practices: Reduce watering during dormancy to prevent root rot and other issues.

• Proper Light: Provide shade and avoid direct sunlight to protect dormant succulents from heat stress.

• Soil Requirements: Use well-draining soil and avoid fertilization during the dormant phase.

• Recognizing Dormancy: Look for signs like slowed growth and reduced water uptake to identify dormancy.

Deepen Your Roots with Flora

At Flora, we not only bring you a vibrant selection of locally sourced, rare, and delightful plants, but we also serve as your continuous guide in your plant parenting voyage, ensuring every leaf in your sanctuary thrives. With our Flora Pod™ technology and a nurturing community of over 250,000 plant lovers, we cultivate a space where every plant parent - novice or expert - can blossom.

We propagate with a commitment to sustainability, connection, and ceaseless growth, fostering a community where each member, and their plants, are cherished and nurtured.

Crave a lush, thriving green space? Adopt a plant from Flora today!

Flora Pod™ is featured on Shark Tank!