All you need to know about Chinese cabbage succulent

One of the first succulents that I have ever owned is the Chinese cabbage succulent. I can still remember when I was just a kid and whenever I went to my grandmother’s place I used to adore them.

How to grow and take care of the Chinese cabbage succulent?

To grow and care for Chinese cabbage succulent:

1. Soil: Use well-draining soil and make sure the pot has proper drainage holes.
2. Water: Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can cause root rot.
3. Light: Place the plant in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
4. Temperature: Chinese cabbage succulents prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Keep away from cold drafts and extreme heat.
5. Fertilizer: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
6. Pruning: Prune the plant regularly to encourage bushier growth and to remove any yellow or damaged leaves.
7. Propagation: Chinese cabbage succulents can be propagated from leaves or stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus over for a few days before planting in well-draining soil.
   
   

What is the expected lifetime of a Chinese cabbage succulent?

The expected lifetime of a Chinese cabbage succulent can vary, but with proper care, it can live for several years. Succulents are generally slow-growing and have a long lifespan, but factors such as light, water, temperature, and soil quality can impact the health and longevity of the plant. With appropriate care, a Chinese cabbage succulent can thrive and provide lush, green foliage for several years.

How to water a Chinese cabbage succulent?

1. Infrequent watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
2. Bottom watering: Consider bottom watering, which involves filling a tray with water and placing the pot in the tray to allow the plant to absorb water from the bottom.
3. Check soil moisture: Check the soil moisture regularly and only water when the soil is dry to the touch.
4. Water thoroughly: When watering, water thoroughly, until water runs out the bottom of the pot. Make sure the soil is evenly moist, but not soaking wet.
5. Water quality: Use room-temperature water and avoid using water that is too cold or too hot, as this can shock the plant.
6. Humidity: Chinese cabbage succulents prefer low humidity, so make sure the air around the plant is not too humid.
7. Dry air: Keep the air around the plant dry by avoiding misting the leaves and keeping the plant away from sources of humidity such as showers or sinks.
   

How to prune Chinese cabbage succulent?

1. Timing: Prune the plant regularly to encourage bushier growth and to remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Pruning can be done any time of year, but it’s best to avoid pruning during the plant’s dormant period.
2. Tools: Use clean, sharp tools, such as scissors or pruning shears, to make clean cuts. Avoid crushing or damaging the plant’s stems or leaves.
3. Cut back: Cut back any yellow or damaged leaves, and any stems that are long and leggy, to encourage bushier growth.
4. New growth: Prune back to just above a node, where new growth will emerge. This will encourage the plant to branch and become bushier.
5. Propagation: Pruned stems can be used for propagation. Allow the cuttings to callus over for a few days before planting in well-draining soil.
6. Avoid over-pruning: Avoid over-pruning, as this can stress the plant and slow down its growth. Remove only what is necessary to maintain the plant’s shape and encourage healthy growth.
   

What kind of soil is the best for Chinese cabbage succulent?

Chinese cabbage succulent prefers a well-draining soil mix. A good soil for this plant can be made by combining equal parts of potting soil, perlite, and sand. This soil mixture allows for proper drainage and airflow to the roots, preventing water from getting trapped in the pot and causing root rot. Chinese cabbage succulent also prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (around 6.0 to 7.0). It’s important to avoid using heavy and dense soil mixtures, as they can suffocate the roots and prevent the plant from growing properly.

Where can I buy Chinese cabbage succulent?

You can buy Chinese cabbage succulents from several places, including:

1. Nurseries: Many nurseries and garden centers carry a variety of succulents, including Chinese cabbage succulents.
2. Online retailers: There are many online retailers that specialize in succulents, including Chinese cabbage succulents. Some popular sites include Amazon, Etsy, and eBay.
3. Local plant stores: Many local plant stores and independent garden centers carry a variety of succulents, including Chinese cabbage succulents.
4. Plant swaps: Consider joining a local plant swap or succulent exchange group, where you can trade plants with other succulent enthusiasts.
5. Wholesale growers: If you are looking to buy a large number of plants, consider contacting a wholesale grower who specializes in succulents.

When purchasing a Chinese cabbage succulent, look for a healthy, well-established plant with green, vibrant leaves and a sturdy stem. Avoid plants that are yellow or have soft, mushy leaves, as these can indicate poor health or disease.

Summary

To summarize, the steps for growing and caring for a Chinese cabbage succulent are:

1. Use well-draining soil and make sure the pot has proper drainage holes.
2. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
3. Place the plant in a location with bright, indirect light.
4. Keep the temperature between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and away from cold drafts and extreme heat.
5. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
6. Prune regularly to encourage bushier growth and remove yellow or damaged leaves.
7. Propagate from leaves or stem cuttings.

The expected lifetime of a Chinese cabbage succulent can be several years with proper care. The plant can be purchased from local nurseries, online retailers, local plant stores, plant swaps, and wholesale growers. When purchasing a Chinese cabbage succulent, look for a healthy, well-established plant with green, vibrant leaves and a sturdy stem.

Have a nice day!