Orostachys boehmeri (Makino) Hara, is a succulent plant belonging to the Crassulaceae family, characterized by its unique growth pattern and form, making it highly favored by enthusiasts. The petite leaves of Orostachys boehmeri (Makino) Hara measure only 2 to 5 centimeters individually, but its radial creeping stems can produce numerous "lotus flower heads."
In other words, the success of Orostachys boehmeri (Makino) Hara's growth doesn't depend on the size of individual plants but rather on the ability of its creeping stems to rapidly propagate seedlings and grow into lush foliage. So, how should one care for Orostachys boehmeri (Makino) Hara? Today, let's discuss its maintenance methods.
Succulent plants prefer loose, well-draining, and airy granular soil, and Orostachys boehmeri (Makino) Hara is no exception. Every enthusiast who loves cultivating succulents has their own soil recipe, but here's a simple soil mixture for reference: combine 2 parts peat soil, 1 part perlite, 1 part leaf mold, and 1 part vermiculite, then add a small amount of slow-release succulent fertilizer as basal dressing. Mix all the materials evenly before planting. For those who prefer convenience, ready-made succulent soil can be purchased.
Orostachys boehmeri (Makino) Hara is a plant that enjoys sunlight and requires prolonged exposure to daylight. During hot summers when sunlight is intense, it's advisable to move the flower pots to a shaded and well-ventilated area to prevent the delicate leaves from sunburn. Besides summer, adequate sunlight should be provided to Orostachys boehmeri (Makino) Hara throughout the year. Prolonged lack of sunlight may cause the plant to elongate excessively, and while the creeping stems may grow long, it becomes difficult for new seedlings to sprout, resulting in a messy appearance and loss of aesthetic appeal.
Compared to other succulent varieties, Orostachys boehmeri (Makino) Hara is relatively heat-tolerant, with its optimal growth temperature ranging between 18 to 30 degrees Celsius. However, its cold tolerance is lower than that of typical succulents, with a minimum tolerance temperature of 0 degrees Celsius; exposure to temperatures below 0 degrees may cause frost damage. During autumn and winter when temperatures drop below 15 degrees Celsius, cease fertilization and reduce watering appropriately, maintaining the soil slightly dry.
Orostachys boehmeri (Makino) Hara is relatively drought-tolerant, thus does not require frequent watering. During periods of rapid growth, watering once a week is generally sufficient. In summer's high temperatures and winter's low temperatures, Orostachys boehmeri (Makino) Hara's growth may slow down or even stop, hence watering intervals should be appropriately extended, typically watering 2 to 3 times a month.
Spring and autumn are the key seasons for fertilizing Orostachys boehmeri (Makino) Hara. If using quick-release fertilizers, the frequency of fertilization can be increased accordingly. For slow-release fertilizers, because of their long-lasting effects lasting 3 to 6 months, it's recommended to fertilize during late winter to early spring and late summer to early autumn.