Dew plant succulents are popular for their vibrant appearance and ease of care, making them suitable for various garden settings. A distinguishing feature is the sparkling, crystalline texture on their leaves, which gives them their characteristic “dewy” look.
Identifying Dew Plant Succulents
Dew plant succulents, part of the Delosperma genus, are often called ice plants due to their glistening leaves. These low-growing, mat-forming ground covers typically reach 3 to 6 inches tall and spread 1 to 4 feet wide. Their fleshy leaves are short, pointed, and may be cylindrical or flattened, featuring bladder cells or tiny hairs that create a frosted texture.
Dew plants produce vibrant, daisy-like flowers, 0.75 to 2 inches in diameter, in colors like pink, purple, red, orange, yellow, and white. These abundant blooms appear continuously from late spring or early summer through fall, opening in direct sunlight and closing in shade or at night. They are commonly used in rock gardens, as ground cover, along borders, in containers, and for xeriscaping or erosion control. They also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Caring for Dew Plant Succulents
Light Needs
Dew plant succulents require full sun exposure, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light can lead to diminished blooming and cause leggy growth as the plant stretches for sun. Dew plants are well-adapted to intense heat and prolonged sun exposure, making them suitable for hot, sunny locations.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is fundamental for dew plant succulents, which prefer a “soak and dry” method. Thoroughly water the plant, then allow the soil to dry completely before the next session. Established plants are drought tolerant and require infrequent watering, while newly planted ones need regular watering until established. During intense summer heat, weekly watering may be beneficial, but significantly reduce or cease watering during winter months.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for dew plant succulents is well-draining, sandy, gritty, or gravelly. These plants tolerate lean or average soils and prefer a neutral pH. Avoid heavy or compacted clay soils, or amend them with coarse sand, grit, or perlite to improve aeration and drainage.
Temperature and Humidity
Dew plant succulents thrive in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). Most varieties are hardy in USDA Zones 5 through 9, though cold tolerance varies. In colder climates, gravel mulch or frost protection can prevent winter dieback, as prolonged wet and cold conditions are detrimental. Reduce watering in fall to help plants harden off before winter. Dew plants prefer drier atmospheric conditions, and average household humidity levels are suitable.
Fertilization
Dew plant succulents are not heavy feeders and require minimal fertilization. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost can be provided once or twice annually during the active growing season. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of blooms, cause leggy growth, or increase susceptibility to winter damage.
Propagating Dew Plant Succulents
Propagating dew plant succulents is straightforward, typically done through stem cuttings or by dividing existing clumps. For stem cuttings, select healthy stems 4 to 6 inches long. Remove leaves from the bottom 1 to 2 inches to expose nodes. Allow cut ends to dry and form a callus for a day or two before planting to prevent rot and encourage rooting.
Once callused, plant cuttings in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring nodes are buried. Keep the soil lightly damp until roots develop, avoiding overwatering. Stem cuttings root easily and are best taken during spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Mature clumps can be carefully separated in spring to create new plants.
Troubleshooting Common Dew Plant Issues
Dew plant succulents are generally resilient, but certain conditions can lead to problems. Root rot, often caused by overwatering or poor drainage, can be addressed by ensuring soil dries completely between waterings and improving drainage with grit or a suitable mix. Leggy growth or a lack of flowering indicates insufficient light or excessive fertilization; move the plant to full sun and reduce fertilizer to encourage denser growth and more blooms.
Winter dieback can occur in colder, wetter climates due to prolonged dampness. Provide excellent drainage, especially in winter, and apply gravel mulch or frost protection. While generally pest-resistant, dew plants can occasionally attract aphids or mealybugs, which can be controlled by washing the plant with a strong water spray or insecticidal soap.