Succulent Maintenance

Graptoveria (Spring & Autumn Type) 🌱

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Graptoveria, a hybrid genus known for its resilience and diverse forms, thrives under bright light, excellent airflow, and a cycle of thorough watering followed by complete dryness. It displays its best compact growth and vibrant colors in mild seasons (spring and autumn).

  • Graptoveria (1)
  • Graptoveria (2)
  • Graptoveria (3)

📊 Botanical Profile

  • Characteristics: Rosette-forming succulents with fleshy leaves, often showcasing a powdery coating (farina) or colorful margins.

  • Habitat: Adapted to arid, well-draining environments like rocky slopes.

  • Note: As hybrids, forms vary greatly. Label clearly and avoid mixing types during propagation.

☀️ Light & Temperature

  • Ideal Indoor Light: PPFD 150–400 (≈ 12–35k lux).

  • Acclimated Outdoor Light: PPFD 400–800 (≈ 30–70k lux).

  • Stretch Alert (Etiolation): PPFD < 120 for over 2 weeks.

  • Burn Alert: PPFD > 700 on unacclimated plants + poor airflow.

  • Optimal Temperature: 15–28°C.

  • Tolerance: Brief exposure to 0–5°C (if dry) and 35–38°C (with strong airflow).

  • Dormancy: Growth slows above 30°C.

  • Tip: Provide 6-10 hours of bright light with good ventilation; use shade cloth and a fan during heatwaves.

💧 Watering & Substrate

  • Perfect Mix: 60–90% mineral grit (e.g., pumice, perlite), 2-6mm size, pH 6.0–7.2.

  • Golden Rule: Soak thoroughly, then wait for the substrate to dry completely. Use pot weight or a dry skewer to check.

  • Pot Choice: Shallow, breathable pots (clay or plastic) with large drainage holes. Side holes boost airflow.

  • Pro Tip: A top-dressing of gravel keeps the plant base clean and dry.

🌿 Fertilization & Growth Rhythm

  • Feed: Only during active growth with a ¼-strength, balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer.

  • Do Not Feed: When the plant is cool/wet or dormant.

  • Rhythm: Growth is most active in spring & autumn. Lengthen dry periods during summer/winter slowdowns.

  • Maintenance: Flush the soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup and brown tips.

✂️ Propagation

  • Leaf/Stem Cuttings: Let wounds callus for 2-10 days. Place on barely moist, coarse mix under gentle light (PPFD 50–120).

  • Seeds: Surface-sow on sterile, fine mineral soil. Keep lightly covered at 18–24°C.

  • Offsets: Remove carefully, let cuts dry, and plant shallowly.

Key to Success: Bright light + gritty, fast-draining soil + the “soak and dry” method. Adapt care with the seasons for a stunning, stress-colored Graptoveria. 🌈

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