How to Grow Live Forever Plant Indoors

Live forever plant, also known as Sempervivum, is a popular succulent that can be easily grown indoors. With its unique rosette shape and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, it has become a favorite among indoor gardeners. In this article, we will explore the steps required to successfully grow a live forever plant indoors.

Choosing the Right Pot and Soil

The first step in growing a live forever plant indoors is selecting the right pot and soil. Since these plants have shallow roots, it is recommended to choose a pot that is wide rather than deep. This will provide enough space for the plant to spread and grow. Additionally, make sure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging.

When it comes to soil, live forever plants prefer well-draining soil that replicates their natural habitat. A mix of equal parts potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand works well for these plants. This mixture allows excess water to drain effectively and prevents root rot.

Providing Adequate Light

Like most succulents, live forever plants require bright light to thrive. Place your potted plant near a sunny window where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If you do not have access to sufficient natural light, you can supplement it with artificial lighting.

LED grow lights are an excellent choice for indoor gardening. They provide the necessary spectrum of light for healthy plant growth and can be adjusted according to the specific needs of your live forever plant.

Watering and Humidity

One of the most common mistakes when growing live forever plants is overwatering. These plants are adapted to survive in arid conditions, so they do not require frequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between each watering session.

To water your live forever plant, thoroughly soak the soil until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. Make sure to empty the saucer or tray underneath the pot to prevent the roots from sitting in standing water. During winter, when the plant goes into a dormant phase, reduce watering frequency even further.

In terms of humidity, live forever plants prefer drier environments. They can tolerate low humidity levels commonly found in indoor spaces. However, if you live in an area with extremely dry air, you can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier.

Temperature and Air Circulation

Live forever plants are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, they prefer moderate temperatures around 70-75°F (21-24°C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. Avoid placing your plant in drafty areas or near heating or cooling vents as sudden temperature fluctuations can be detrimental to its health.

Good air circulation is also crucial for the well-being of your live forever plant. Stagnant air can lead to fungal diseases and poor growth. If you notice any signs of mold or mildew on the leaves or soil surface, increase airflow by using a small fan or opening windows periodically.

Propagation and Repotting

One of the great advantages of live forever plants is their ability to propagate easily. These plants produce offsets, also known as “chicks,” that can be separated and planted individually to create new plants. When these offsets are large enough to handle, gently separate them from the mother plant and allow them to callus over for a few days before potting them in their own containers.

As your live forever plant grows, you may need to repot it into a larger container. Repotting is typically done every two to three years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and follow the same soil and watering guidelines mentioned earlier.

Common Pests and Diseases

While live forever plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, they can still encounter a few problems. The most common pests include mealybugs and aphids. If you notice any signs of infestation, such as white cottony masses or small insects on the leaves, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Overwatering and poor air circulation can lead to fungal diseases such as root rot or leaf blight. To prevent these issues, always water your plant sparingly and ensure good airflow around the leaves by avoiding overcrowding.

Conclusion

Growing a live forever plant indoors can be a rewarding experience. By providing the right conditions of light, water, and temperature, you can enjoy the beauty of these unique succulents year-round. Remember to choose the appropriate pot and soil, provide adequate light, water sparingly, and propagate as needed. With proper care, your live forever plant will thrive and bring a touch of nature into your indoor space.