The majority will agree that one of the reasons succulents are so popular is because they make amazing indoor plants. You won’t even have to worry much about how to bring succulents back to life because even with just a little bit of care, they’re going to thrive.
That’s what succulents do. They survive.
The catch is that this makes many new growers wonder if succulents really need sunlight. After all, we see them in bathrooms, bedside tables, and other low-light spots at home.
Do Succulents Need Sun?
Yes, succulents need sun. Even the ones that can survive in areas with the least access to light will still need it to grow. However, the answer you’re looking for might not be as straightforward as you think. After all, there are various factors to consider.
Firstly, you’ll want to know the kind of succulents you’re growing. Generally speaking, you can categorize succulents into two types: those that naturally grow in the desert and those endemic to tropical rainforests.
For example, the Ghost plant (Graptopetalum paraguayense) is a desert succulent and will therefore require full sun. Meanwhile, the Jade plant (Crassula ovata) is more of a tropical plant. As such, it will probably wither and wilt under intense, direct light.
Another factor to consider is how acclimated your plant is to your area. It is possible to “train” your plant to get used to the bright sunlight (or lack thereof). This is especially true for baby succulents you propagated from mother plants that have already been living with you for a while.
What Happens If Your Succulent Doesn’t Get Enough Light?
Your succulent will try to grow towards the nearest light source to survive. This can result in your compact succulent growing a longer stem rather than just staying compact. Succulent growers usually refer to this phenomenon as legginess, but the scientific term is etiolation.
Etiolation might ruin the original look of your succulents, but it’s technically not a disease. Instead, it is a condition triggered by a lack of light. Consider it a defense mechanism that can be prevented by providing your succulent with ample light.
How Much Sunlight Does a Succulent Need?
Again, the answer to this will depend on different factors. That said, most succulents need around six hours of sunlight per day. Other low-light varieties can live on four hours daily. Any shorter than that, and it might prove deadly for your plant in the long run.
Also, when we say four hours, that doesn’t mean your plant will thrive in it. While it will continue on living, it probably won’t be enough to prevent etiolation, nor will it keep the lively color that your plant naturally comes in.
You should also remember that there is a significant contrast between direct and indirect sunlight. Even if you think your plant is receiving the same amount of sunlight just outside your window, placing it indoors will still make a difference. Most succulents need bright, indirect sunlight. This is crucial to keep in mind, especially if you’re caring for younger, newly propagated plantlets.
How To Give Your Plant More Light
What can you do if you don’t have an ideally-positioned window at home? There are various ways to supplement your plant’s lighting needs. In fact, here are a few steps you can take:
Take your plant out.
Those who have the time can take their plant out for four to six hours every day. Ideally, you will want to do this in the morning. Don’t forget to take your succulent plant back inside to prevent it from getting burnt by the afternoon sun. We recommend setting an alarm as an added reminder.
Use artificial lighting.
Those who don’t have enough windows can use grow lights instead. Just like when exposing your succulents to sunlight, it will help to set an alarm to prevent potentially burning your plant.
Don’t be afraid to switch things around.
Different windows receive varying amounts of light each day. Hence, it might help to switch the location of your succulents around to determine which spot is the most ideal.
One of the best things about succulents is that they are very responsive. They’re quick to show small and gradual changes when they like their growing environment. All you need to do is pay closer attention.
Succulents and Sunlight
It’s interesting to note that succulents and sunlight have a love-hate relationship. They can’t live without the sun, but getting too much of it can get them in trouble. The secret lies in finding the right balance.
A lot of experienced succulent growers recommend bright, indirect light. However, we understand that it’s not always possible for everyone. Fortunately, there are ways to still give your plant the amount of light it needs to survive.
By following the tips we shared, we’re sure you will be able to improve your succulent’s growing conditions and end up with happier and healthier plants.
