Having succulent leaves point upwards is a common observation. This change often indicates the plant is responding to its environment. While sometimes a sign of stress, it is not always a concern. Understanding the factors influencing this behavior helps maintain succulent health and appearance.
Why Succulent Leaves Point Up
Succulents exhibit upward-pointing leaves as a response to environmental conditions. These responses are the plant’s way of adapting, whether seeking more light or protecting itself.
Insufficient light is a frequent cause, known as etiolation. When succulents lack light, they stretch stems and leaves to reach a light source. This leads to elongated growth with increased spacing between leaves, and the leaves may point upwards or outwards. This growth is often weaker and paler than healthy, compact growth.
Water stress also influences leaf position. Underwatering can cause leaves to shrivel, wrinkle, and sometimes point upwards as the plant conserves moisture. Prolonged periods without water lead to dehydration. Overwatering, though less commonly associated with upward-pointing leaves, can lead to root rot, stressing the plant and causing changes in leaf appearance.
Temperature extremes can induce stress responses. Very high temperatures, especially with intense direct sunlight, cause leaves to point upwards to reduce sun exposure and prevent sunburn. Conversely, very low temperatures also stress plants, leading to leaf adjustments. Succulents prefer temperatures between 60 to 80°F, though some tolerate 40 to 90°F.
In some cases, upward-pointing leaves are a natural growth habit. For certain species or during new leaf growth, it is normal for innermost leaves to point upwards before they mature and flatten. This is true for rosette-forming succulents where new growth emerges from the center. Not all instances indicate a problem.
How to Address Upward-Pointing Leaves
Addressing upward-pointing leaves involves understanding the cause and implementing corrective measures. These actions adjust the plant’s environment to promote healthier growth and restore its natural compact form.
Increasing light exposure is a primary corrective action for etiolated succulents. Gradually move the plant to a brighter location, such as closer to a south-facing window, or introduce a grow light. A gradual increase, perhaps by 30 minutes every few days, helps the plant acclimate and prevents sunburn. For indoor succulents, grow lights provide light; full spectrum white LEDs are a good choice, placed 6-12 inches away for fluorescent lights or 18-24 inches for LEDs.
Adjusting watering practices alleviates stress from improper hydration. The “soak and dry” method is recommended: thoroughly water the soil until it drains, then allow it to dry completely before the next watering. Checking soil moisture by touch ensures the plant receives water when needed, typically every 14-21 days for indoor succulents during active growth. Avoid watering leaves directly to prevent rot.
Addressing environmental stress, particularly temperature fluctuations, aids plant recovery. Move succulents away from drafts, heating vents, or excessively hot windows. During heatwaves, provide shade using shade cloth or by relocating potted plants to a cooler, shaded area. For outdoor plants, planting directly in the ground offers more temperature stability than pots.
Pruning etiolated growth is often necessary to restore the succulent’s appearance and encourage new, compact growth. Stretched stems will not revert to their original form. “Beheading” the succulent by cutting off the top rosette is a solution. The healthy top can then be calloused and replanted, and the remaining stem may produce new offsets. This method allows for propagation and a fresh start.
Preventing Future Upward-Pointing Leaves
Preventing future instances involves proactive care that meets succulent needs. Consistent attention to light, water, temperature, and potting medium maintains their health and characteristic compact growth.
Providing adequate light prevents etiolation. Most succulents thrive with at least six hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily. South-facing windows are often ideal for indoor succulents. If natural light is insufficient, especially during winter, supplemental grow lights with a full spectrum and 6500K color temperature provide necessary intensity and duration, usually for 12-14 hours a day.
Establishing a proper watering schedule based on the “soak and dry” method is important. Water deeply until water drains, then allow the soil to dry completely before rewatering. Frequency varies by species, pot size, soil type, and environmental conditions, generally ranging from every 1-2 weeks during growing seasons to once a month during dormancy. Monitoring soil dryness by touch is more effective than a rigid schedule.
Maintaining ideal temperatures prevents stress that can lead to abnormal growth. Succulents prefer daytime temperatures between 60°F and 80°F, with cooler nighttime temperatures. Protect plants from sudden drops below 40°F and extreme heat above 90°F. During hot periods, ensure good air circulation and consider moving plants to a shaded area.
Choosing the right potting mix is important for succulent well-being. A well-draining, gritty soil mix prevents water retention and root rot. Ideal mixes often contain a higher proportion of inorganic materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand, combined with a smaller amount of potting soil or coconut coir. This allows for quick drainage and aeration, mimicking their natural arid environments.