Do succulents grow flowers?

QUESTION: Do succulents grow flowers? I’ve had mine for several years, but I’ve never seen any of them bloom. – Liza B

ANSWER: Some succulents will flower while others will not. All succulents can flower but if they will depends upon their growing conditions and age.

First, succulents must be mature enough to produce a flower. You may be thinking we’re talking about a matter of months.

In reality, some succulents won’t flower until they’re around five years old. The next thing that will determine whether a succulent flowers or not is the growing conditions.

When plants flower it’s because they’re trying to reproduce. If the plant doesn’t feel secure enough in its environment, it won’t produce any offspring.

You must ensure your succulents are provided adequate sunlight. For most types of succulents, this means they receive a minimum of six hours of bright light.

They should also be planted in well-draining soil. Succulents don’t enjoy overly soggy conditions. The right soil can keep moisture levels in balance.

Also, be mindful of how frequently you water. It’s best to water the plant deeply and leave it alone until it has fully dried out before applying more water.

When in doubt, apply water until it drains from the bottom of the planter. Let the plant rest for days or even weeks. You’ll know it’s time to apply more water by testing the soil.

Insert your finger into the dirt. When it’s dry to your second knuckle, it’s time to have another deep watering session.

The last thing you should do to help your succulents flower is to keep the temperatures consistent with what they’d experience in nature. You can move your plants outdoors during the summer to supply necessary heat.

Do be mindful of how strong the sunlight is on your plants because, though they like bright sunlight, the leaves can scorch.

During the winter, bring your plant inside, but be mindful of placing it too close to a heat source. The plant needs protection from frost but shouldn’t be surrounded by excessively hot temperatures year-round. 

If your succulent blooms, be sure to fertilize your plant one time per month and remove the bloom once it dies.

Some people are fearful for their succulents to bloom because they think they’ll die. There are two types of succulents.

One type of succulent is a perennial. These plants can bloom multiple times before they die. Monocarpic succulents are the varieties which bloom once and die.

Keep this in mind when purchasing your succulents.

Our final tip is it’s important to note that some succulents, which are grown indoors year-round, may never bloom.

It’s because it can prove difficult to recreate the perfect growing conditions indoors. Even if your succulent never blooms, it can still be a beautiful plant to brighten up your home.

Utilize these tips to encourage your succulent to bloom. If you’re lucky, it might, and you can enjoy it while it lasts.

If it doesn’t, that’s okay. Enjoy the unique design and rich foliage only succulents seem to provide.

Learn More About Growing Succulents

https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/know-how-know-more/2017-12-15-growing-succulents-beyond-basics

https://extension.umn.edu/houseplants/cacti-and-succulents

https://extension.wvu.edu/lawn-gardening-pests/indoor-plants/succulents-101