As a Crassula plant, my seeds are tiny and require specific conditions to germinate. Unlike some plants with hardy seeds, mine are delicate and need careful handling. My seeds are typically dark brown or black, resembling fine dust. To ensure successful growth, you must source fresh seeds, as older ones lose viability quickly. Store them in a cool, dry place until planting to maintain their potential.
From my perspective, the right soil mix is crucial. I thrive in well-draining, sandy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). A mix of cactus potting soil and perlite or coarse sand works well. Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils, as my roots are prone to rot. Sterilize the soil before use to eliminate pathogens that could harm my delicate seedlings.
When sowing my seeds, scatter them lightly on the soil surface—don’t bury them deep, as they need light to germinate. Gently press them into the soil to ensure contact. Use a spray bottle to mist the surface, keeping it moist but not soggy. Cover the container with a clear lid or plastic wrap to retain humidity, which mimics my natural arid habitat’s morning dew.
I prefer warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C) and bright, indirect light for germination. Direct sunlight can overheat and dry out the soil, killing my seeds. A windowsill with filtered light or a grow light works well. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take 1–4 weeks, so patience is key. Remove the cover once seedlings emerge to prevent mold.
As a young Crassula, I’m fragile and need gradual acclimation to drier conditions. Water my seedlings sparingly, allowing the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can drown my roots. Provide bright, indirect light to encourage sturdy growth. Avoid fertilizing until I’ve developed true leaves (usually after 4–6 weeks), and then use a diluted succulent fertilizer monthly.
Once I’ve grown 2–3 sets of true leaves and am about 1–2 inches tall, I’m ready for transplanting. Handle my roots gently to avoid shock. Move me to individual small pots with the same well-draining soil mix. Space my siblings at least 2–3 inches apart if planting in a tray. Water lightly after transplanting and gradually increase light exposure to harden me off.
As I mature, I need more sunlight—aim for 4–6 hours of direct morning sun and bright indirect light for the rest of the day. Water me deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. I thrive in temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C) and prefer low humidity. Rotate my pot occasionally to ensure even growth.
From my experience, damping-off (a fungal disease) can kill seedlings. Prevent this by ensuring good airflow and sterile soil. Leggy growth means I’m not getting enough light—move me closer to a bright source. Pests like aphids or mealybugs may attack; remove them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or use insecticidal soap.
