If you’re in a warm climate where summer temperatures soar above 100 degrees, you will need to protect your succulents from direct sunlight and extreme heat. That can be a challenge though living in a desert. Succulents with soft, fleshy leaves will most certainly burn in these environments (in the Southern California desert we are known to get as hot as 120 degrees Fahrenheit). If you find yourself in this same scenario, there’s a good chance that your succulents will struggle and won’t last throughout the summer if they aren’t protected. Here are some tips that may help your succulents weather the heat storm.
Sun Exposure
Do not give your succulents full sun in 100+ degree weather. If they are in pots, it will be easy to move them to a cool, shady area. If you do not have enough shade outside, move them inside if possible near a window or in an area that gets bright, indirect sunlight. You may also consider using grow lights if necessary.
Remember that even in shady areas like under patios or trees it may still be too hot for certain succulents. East facing patios are great, but make sure that they aren’t getting any harsh afternoon sun exposure. Not only are you protecting them from direct sunlight, but reflected heat can also be a problem. Be careful placing them near hot walls or cement floors that can reflect heat which will surely cause damage to leaves.
An easy way to determine how hot a location is around your house is to check on sun exposures during certain times of the day. For example, the hottest time of the day is usually between 1-3pm. Take note of where the sun is shining on your home to determine where the hottest location is. The West side will receive the most sun.
Water
The rule of thumb for watering succulents is to give water only when the soil is dry. If you’re in a hot, dry desert, you may find that your soil is drying out faster than usual, especially if your succulents are in smaller containers. If this is the case, you may find yourself watering at least twice a week if your succulents are outside. If you keep your succulents as houseplants, you may be able to water every two weeks (or more) depending on the variety and type of succulent you are caring for. Cacti don’t require much water at all to keep alive and will have longer periods in between watering sessions, and this includes both indoors and out.
Plant Selection*
If you are worried about succulent care in the desert, you may also consider using more heat tolerant varieties that adapt better to the desert environment. Here’s a list of succulents that you may want to consider:
Aloe
Agave
Cacti
Haworthia
Gasteria
Gasteraloe
Sansevieria
*This list is subject to change. If you have any to add here, please email me at joe@succulentjoes.com and let me know!