Lil Pickle Plant
π΅ Meet the Lil Pickle Plant (Delosperma echinatum)
Fuzzy, chunky, and undeniably cute β the Lil Pickle Plant looks like tiny gherkins on stems! This quirky succulent hails from South Africa and brings serious charm without demanding much. If you love weird-but-wonderful plants, this oneβs a total gem.
π Light
This sun-lover thrives in bright light and soaks up the rays like itβs on holiday.
Ideal spot: A south- or west-facing windowsill is perfect.
Direct sunlight: Yes, please! Just introduce gradually to avoid scorch.
Low light: Not a fan β weak light makes it leggy and sad.
π± Tip: If it starts stretching or losing its chunky shape, itβs craving more sun.
π§ Water
As a succulent, the Pickle Plant stores water in its plump leaves β and hates sitting in soggy soil.
When to water: When the soil is bone dry.
How often: Every 2β3 weeks in spring/summer, less in winter.
Watering tips: Water deeply, then let it drain completely. Never let it sit in water.
π§ Tip: If the leaves start to wrinkle, thatβs your cue to water!
π‘οΈ Temperature & Humidity
It likes things warm and dry β think desert vibes.
Ideal temperature: 20β27Β°C (68β80Β°F)
Cold drafts: No thanks β protect from temps below 10Β°C (50Β°F)
Humidity: Loves dry air! Too much moisture can lead to rot.
π¬οΈ Extra tip: Keep away from humid rooms like bathrooms or kitchens.
π± Soil
Good drainage is everything for this lilβ spiky friend.
Best mix: Cactus or succulent mix with added sand or perlite.
Drainage tip: Use a pot with drainage holes β itβs non-negotiable.
πΏ Fertiliser
Minimal feeder, but a little boost now and then helps.
Type: Cactus fertiliser or balanced feed diluted to quarter strength.
When: Once a month in spring and summer.
Pause: No feeding in autumn/winter when it rests.
π± Tip: Overfeeding = stretched growth. Keep it lean and mean.
πͺ΄ Potting & Repotting
No need to rush β itβs slow-growing and stays compact.
When to repot: Every 2β3 years or when roots outgrow the pot.
Best time: Spring is ideal.
Pot size: Only go one size up β too much soil = moisture risk.
βοΈ Pruning & Shaping
Pruning isnβt essential, but you can snip leggy growth to keep it tidy.
When to prune: Spring or summer.
How: Use clean, sharp scissors to trim long stems. Donβt toss the cuttings β they root easily!
βοΈ Tip: Pinch back tips to encourage a bushier look.
π± Propagation
This plant makes babies like itβs its job β propagation is super simple.
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Snip a healthy stem section.
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Let it callous for 1β2 days.
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Plant it in dry succulent mix.
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Mist lightly until it roots (about 2β3 weeks).
π± Tip: The fuzz on the stems helps it retain moisture β donβt overdo the watering early on.
β οΈ Common Problems
| Problem | Symptoms | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Overwatering | Mushy, translucent leaves, root rot | Stop watering, repot into dry soil if necessary |
| Underwatering | Wrinkled or shrivelling leaves | Water deeply and regularly when dry |
| Low light | Stretched, leggy stems | Move to a sunnier spot |
| Too humid | Soft or rotting stems | Improve airflow, reduce watering, and avoid high humidity |
| Pests (rare) | White fuzz (mealybugs), webbing | Wipe off and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap |
β¨ Extra Care Tips
𧽠Dust gently: Use a soft dry brush to remove dust from the fuzzy leaves β they donβt like being wet.
π« No misting: Those fuzzy leaves are moisture-sensitive β avoid misting or overhead watering.
π‘ Winter rest: In cooler months, let it rest in a bright, cool, and dry spot β and barely water it.