Succulents are often admired for their compact, chubby foliage that comes in an array of colors. However, you may sometimes notice your succulents growing tall and skinny, a phenomenon known as elongation. But why does this happen? In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the reasons behind this behavior and share some invaluable tips on how to propagate elongated succulents.
Understanding Elongation In Succulents
Elongation is a response seen in succulents that do not receive enough sunlight. When deprived of adequate light, your succulents start reaching out. They grow taller and longer. Their search for sunlight can make them turn and bend towards any source of light.
This lack of sunlight also impacts the appearance of the leaves. They may start to spread out. The space between leaves can increase. In some cases, the leaves may even become lighter and smaller than usual. This is a clear sign your succulents are calling out for more sunlight.
Color is another aspect that sunlight affects. Without enough light, succulents can lose their bright hues. They might revert back to a green color. This is particularly common in vibrant succulents. These are the ones with bright colors like orange, yellow, red, purple, and pink. These colorful ones need more sunlight than what your indoors can offer.
One thing to remember here is that once succulents elongate, they cannot go back to their usual shape. This is irrespective of how much sunlight you provide afterward. But there’s a silver lining. The colors can revert back from green to vibrant ones if you provide enough sunlight.
Propagating Elongated Succulents
Now that you know why your succulents are growing tall, let’s learn how to turn this situation around. Despite their awkward shape, elongated succulents can offer a unique propagation opportunity. Here are four different ways you can propagate your elongated succulents.
Propagation Through Beheading Or Cutting The Rosette
Beheading might sound harsh, but it’s a common practice in succulent care. This method involves cutting the top part of your succulent, the rosette. You can then plant these fresh cuttings directly into the soil.
Remember not to water these cuttings for seven to ten days after planting. Also, keep them away from direct sunlight during this period. They are not stable yet and can easily get sunburned or dry up before their roots grow.
Propagation Through Leaves
Succulent leaves can also be used for propagation. Remove the leaves by gently wiggling them from side to side. They will snap from the stem when ready. Ensure the end connected to the stem is intact. That’s where your new succulent babies will grow from.
After removal, air-dry the leaves for three to five days. Once the tip is calloused, you can lay them flat on the soil. Keep them moist by misting them every day or every other day. As with fresh cuttings, avoid exposing them to direct sunlight to prevent sunburn or premature drying.
Propagation Through Stems
Even the stems of your elongated succulents can give birth to new plants. All you need to do is air-dry the stems until the tips are calloused. Then, plant them into the soil. Although this method might take several weeks, your patience will be rewarded with several babies growing out from the areas where you plucked the leaves.
Propagation From Well-Rooted Ones
Lastly, you can propagate from the well-rooted ones. This method involves removing all the rosettes and leaves and then planting the well-rooted succulent. Over time, this will yield several babies.
Final Thoughts
Elongation in succulents is a clear indicator of insufficient sunlight. But remember, it’s not the end of the world for your elongated succulents. With careful propagation techniques, you can turn this situation into an opportunity. Not only can you restore your succulents’ health and appearance, but you can also multiply your collection without spending much money. Always remember, succulent care is a labor of love and patience, and your efforts will undoubtedly be rewarded.
Top 5 FAQ And Answers About Why Succulents Grow Tall
Q: Why are my succulents growing tall?
A: Your succulents are growing tall due to a phenomenon called elongation. This occurs when succulents do not receive enough sunlight. In their quest for more light, succulents grow taller and longer and might even bend towards the light source.
Q: Can I prevent my succulents from growing tall?
A: Yes, you can prevent your succulents from growing tall by providing them with adequate sunlight. Succulents need a good amount of sunlight each day to maintain their compact, robust shape. Make sure they are placed in an area where they can get several hours of bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: Can elongated succulents return to their original shape?
A: Unfortunately, once succulents have elongated, they cannot revert back to their original compact shape, regardless of how much sunlight you provide afterward. However, their color can return from green to their vibrant hues with enough sunlight exposure.
Q: Can I still propagate my elongated succulents?
A: Absolutely! Elongated succulents can still be propagated. In fact, they offer unique opportunities for propagation. You can propagate from the leaves, the stems, the rosette on top, or even from the well-rooted ones. Be sure to follow the propagation tips outlined in this article to ensure success.
Q: What happens to the leaves of succulents when they don’t get enough sunlight?
A: When succulents don’t get enough sunlight, their leaves start to spread out, and the space between leaves increases. In some cases, the leaves may even become lighter and smaller than usual. Also, succulents may lose their bright colors and revert to a green shade due to insufficient light.
