MONROE SUCCULENT P.2

Monroe succulent, also known as chubby little stone flower, has a natural, gentle beauty. With the light green color of the leaves, the pink, white, and yellow colors of the flowers will brighten up any space.

1. Origin and scientific name

Monroe succulent is a succulent plant of the Echeveria family, with the scientific name Echeveria 'Monroe' - originating from North America but commonly bred and propagated in Korea, China and recently Vietnam. With the characteristic of thick, succulent leaves, layered in a unique rose shape, this succulent quickly became a favorite choice in the world of ornamental plant decor.

2. Characteristics of monroe succulent

The shape of the monroe plant resembles a flower that is about to bloom, not fully open. The plant has a thick layer of powder covering the leaves. The leaves are quite thick, slightly pink at the tip and plump. The plant has a variety of colors. It can change color according to the climate where the plant lives. In cold countries, the leaves are very beautiful pink. In hot countries, it is covered with a layer of pure white powder and pink at the tip of the leaves. In the variant form, the plant will turn orange or red when there is enough sunlight and water.

3. Instructions for caring for Monroe stone lotus at home

3.1. Ideal light and temperature conditions

Monroe stone lotus likes indirect light, suitable for placing near windows, covered balconies or places that receive morning sunlight. The plant will have the most beautiful color when exposed to light sunlight for 2-4 hours/day. The ideal temperature for the plant to grow ranges from 18-30 degrees Celsius, avoid prolonged humidity.

3.2. Soil type and how to change the pot

The plant needs to be planted in loose, well-drained soil, usually a mixture of rice husk ash - coconut fiber - perlite. About every 3-4 months, you should change the soil and check the roots once, especially during the rainy season or when the plant shows signs of stopping growing. Shin's Garden has a specialized Monroe succulent soil combo suitable for beginners.

3.3. Watering properly (bottom watering or misting)

Unlike other ornamental plants, Monroe succulents do not need to be watered regularly. Ideally, use the bottom watering method (soak ⅓ of the pot in water for 15 minutes) or spray a light mist around the base - do not water directly on the leaves to avoid waterlogging. Watering frequency: 5-7 days/time in the dry season, 10 days/time in the rainy season.

3.4. Fertilizer and how to handle waterlogged, wilted plants

You can use slow-release pellet fertilizer or diluted organic biofertilizer once a month to help the plant grow healthily and have beautiful colors. If the plant shows signs of mushy leaves or wilted roots, cut off the damaged part, let it dry and repot it with clean soil. With instructions from Shin’s Garden, even first-time planters can do it easily.

Popular types of soil for growing succulents

4. Group of well-drained growing media

-Coal slag: Coal slag is a cheap and easy-to-find material in Vietnam. After being pre-processed, coal slag has very good drainage capacity and provides nutrients for plants.

-Rice husk: Rice husk helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases, while maintaining ventilation and drainage for the growing medium. Rice husk is a great choice instead of fresh rice husk.

-Perlite: Perlite is porous with air pockets inside, helping to improve ventilation and drainage in the growing medium. It does not rot and can be reused many times.

-Pumice: Pumice has the same properties as Perlite, but is heavier and has the ability to retain nutrients. Pumice helps plants grow healthily thanks to the adhesion of roots to the stone particles, while maintaining the necessary ventilation.

Water-retaining and nutrient-providing substrate group

-Vermicompost: Vermicompost is a nutrient-rich organic material that can be used for many different types of plants. Vermicompost helps plants grow strongly and provides essential micronutrients.

-Cow manure: This is an organic fertilizer derived from the manure of livestock such as cows, buffaloes, goats, etc. Cow manure helps supplement nutrients for plants, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and trace elements. Cow manure also helps increase microbial biomass in the soil, making the soil rich in humus and vitality.

-Peatmoss: Peatmoss provides good moisture, creates a sterile environment, and helps protect plant roots. It also prevents soil compaction, helping plant roots develop naturally.

-Vermiculite: Vermiculite retains water very well and contains many essential micronutrients for healthy plant growth, beautiful color and strength. Vermiculite helps enhance plant growth in growing media.