Last Updated on October 10, 2022 by Guillermina
Wondering what is the best temperature for succulents? Take a look at this article to learn how to establish your own environment-specific temperature exposure practices.
Most plant parents will agree that succulents are among the easiest plants to grow. They are easy-to-please and best of all, require minimal effort. They have adapted to live in almost all conditions thanks to their fleshy leaves, thick stems, and enlarged roots.
As you may know, there are many different types of succulents, varying in color, hardiness zone, appearance, as well as in their ability to withstand temperature fluctuations. Speaking of which, we can’t help but wonder what is the best temperature for succulents. Check out this article to find out how to keep these plants thriving and looking their best.
Table of Contents
Do Succulents Need Sun?
Before you learn more about the best temperature for succulents, let us introduce you to their sun requirements. Long story short, succulents are sun-loving plants, to say the least, and that’s an undeniable fact.
They need between six and eight hours of sun per day, depending on the variety. Also, it is very important to know that newly planted “babies” don’t like to be exposed to direct light, in fact, it could be disastrous for them.
To begin with, gradually introduce them to full exposure to the sun or provide them with shade with a transparent curtain. Although they love the sun, never leave them sitting in the same place day after day. This is not recommended because probably only one side will have enough light and the other will be in shadow.
What Is The Best Temperature For Succulents?
To answer this question as accurately as possible, it is necessary to consider the origin of succulents. Namely, not all of them have the same temperature requirements.
Once you know the correct info, it will be easier to adjust the temperature. We are telling you this for a simple reason, as much as it may seem unimportant to you because they are “desert” plants, some types of succulents are resistant to cold and frost, while on the other hand, some die at the first contact with frost.
As a general rule, experts have stated that most succulents will do very well when kept in temperatures between 45-85⁰F. Now we will say a few sentences about “extremes”.
The lowest allowable temperature that the succulent will survive is somewhere around 40 degrees. Anything lower than that isn’t recommended as the freezing point for most species is around 32 degrees, after which, as you can guess, the plant dies.
Furthermore, the highest they can still thrive at is around the maximum of 90 degrees Fahrenheit. It should not exceed the upper limit as the plant may suffer and die out.
Of course, as in everything else, gardeners like to experiment and use temperature oscillations to manipulate colors, for example, to develop deeper and more vibrant tones. However, this isn’t recommended for gardeners with little or no experience growing succulents.
What Temperature Is Best For Indoor Succulents?
As you can guess there is a standard range of the perfect temperature for succulents when grown indoors, such as on windowsills, etc. If you plan to grow this plant indoors, we recommend making sure the temperature is somewhere between 55 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. We believe that this is equally optimal for both you and the plant.
Are you familiar with the fact that temperatures hovering around the edges of the tolerable spectrum can act as a positive stressor that encourages the expression of a brighter color than would otherwise be the case?
Do Succulents Like Warm Or Cold Water?
As you already know, water temperature plays a crucial role in overall plant development, especially in the period when the plant is a “baby” and doesn’t have a fully established root system.
It is necessary to remember once and for all that inappropriate water temperature can drastically affect the growth of succulents in several ways. These plants prefer conditions that are similar to their native habitats, which is nothing new. Accordingly, they need to ensure a sufficiently neutral water temperature, somewhere between 68 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
No, you don’t have to take a thermometer and measure the temperature every time, it’s enough to dip your finger, the water should be neither too hot nor too cold.
Do Succulents Like Cold Nights?
Most succulents like it when there is a clear boundary between day and night temperatures. Given that these are plants that prefer somewhat desert conditions, this is quite understandable.
It’s no secret that the distinct difference between night and day temperatures is important for the overall growth and development of the plant. Therefore, it would be a shame not to take advantage of controlled environments as is the case with our homes, which have the ability to mimic their natural habitat almost identically.
Accordingly, when it comes to the best temperature for succulents at night, a drop between 40-45⁰F is acceptable for most species. You can even take them outside the house, it’s just important that they aren’t threatened by frost. Likewise, we mustn’t forget to mention that some succulents prefer a nighttime temperature even lower than that, around 35-40⁰F.
To Conclude: What Is The Best Temperature For Succulents?
Always stick to the fact that succulents prefer averages much more than extremes. The cold threatens them with freezing and the heat with burns and atrophy. As a general rule, experts have stated that most succulents will do very well when kept in temperatures between 45-85⁰F.
You don’t have to worry if there are minor temperature fluctuations, as long as it doesn’t become extreme, your plant will be thankful.
If you have questions that cause doubts, feel free to contact us. Our team of experts will be happy to answer them.
Before you go, take a look at this article as well: Are Elephant Ears Toxic? Dangerous Enough To Cause Death & Safe Enough To Consume
