What is what to do when succulents get too tall?

When your succulents get too tall, a common issue known as etiolation, it's time to take action to improve their health and appearance. Here's what you can do:

• Identify the Cause: Usually, succulents stretch because they aren't getting enough light. Insufficient light causes them to reach for a source, resulting in elongated stems and sparse leaves.

• Increase Light Exposure: Gradually move your succulent to a location with brighter, indirect sunlight. Avoid sudden exposure to intense sunlight to prevent sunburn. If natural light is lacking, consider using a grow%20light.

• Pruning: Pruning is an effective way to address the stretched growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stem back. You can often cut just below a node (the point where leaves grow from the stem). The plant will typically produce new growth from the cut point.

• Propagate Cuttings: Don't throw away the healthy cuttings! These can be used to propagate new plants. Let the cut end callous over for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil.

• Beheading: For severely stretched succulents, you can behead them. This involves cutting off the entire top portion of the plant, leaving a short stem. The base of the plant will usually produce new offsets, and you can root the beheaded top just like a cutting.

• Repot: If the succulent has become top-heavy, consider repotting it into a more stable container. Use a well-draining succulent mix.

• Prevention: To prevent future stretching, ensure your succulents receive adequate light. Rotate them regularly to ensure even growth. Adjust your watering schedule to avoid overwatering, as this can also contribute to weak growth.