It happens most often in winter. The previously compact, densely leafed succulent stretches incessantly. In the end, the houseplant has lost its harmonious shape and is left with long, thin shoots. Read here what caused the mishap. How to solve the problem.
What to do if my succulent has a long stem?
If a succulent plant develops a long stem, it is usually due to a lack of light during wintering. To save the plant, cut off he althy offshoots, let them dry and plant them in potting soil. In the future, the succulent should overwinter in a bright, cool location.
Lack of light causes extensive linear growth
Almost all succulent species are sun worshipers or at least prefer a partially shaded location. If the plants are in a place that is too warm and dark during the winter, they will reach out towards the light in fear.
Experts call this process horniness or etiolement. As the succulent rushes to get more light, the horny shoots become long and thin. The distance between the leaves (internodes) becomes noticeably larger. If the succulent bends at the same time, botanists speak of phototropism. The affected plant will definitely become unsightly. Therefore, read on what to do now.
Tip for solving the problem – this is how it works with offshoots
If a succulent plant stretches due to lack of light, not all parts of the plant are affected. By cutting off, potting and caring for undamaged offshoots in a timely manner, you can preserve your exotic houseplant. How to do it right:
- Cut off a normally grown head cutting or lateral daughter rosette
- Let the cuts dry for a day
- Pour lean cactus or succulent soil into a growing pot and moisten it
- Don't plant the offshoot too deep
- Start normal adult succulent care program after 8 to 10 days
If your succulent does not have any suitable offshoots or children, the rescue plan can also be achieved with leaf cuttings. Cut off a thin edge of the leaf to expose the succulent tissue. Then place the cutting on lean, slightly moist potting soil so that it can root and produce new succulents.
Tip
To prevent your succulent from forming a long stem in the first place, it should overwinter in a bright, cool location from November to February. Lower temperatures reduce the need for light so that horny shoots cannot develop. If there is no adequate winter quarters available, simply compensate for the lack of light in well-heated living spaces with a daylight lamp (€26.00 on Amazon).
