The Ultimate Guide to Ogre Ear Succulent Care

Table of Contents

Ogre Ear Succulent: and Overview

Ogre Ear Succulent (Crassula Ovata Gollum) is a popular plant among succulent enthusiasts. It is also known by other names such as Jade Plant, Finger Jade, or Hobbit's Pipe. This succulent is native to South Africa and Mozambique and belongs to the Crassulaceae family.

Ogre Ear Succulent has thick, fleshy leaves with a unique tubular shape that distinguishes it from other types of succulents. The leaves are green with red tips and can grow up to 3 inches long. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and wide, making it an excellent choice for indoor or outdoor gardening.

How to Care for Ogre Ear Succulent?

1. Lighting

Ogre Ear Succulent prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn or turn yellow. Place the plant near a window facing east or west where it can receive morning or afternoon sun. If you're growing the plant indoors, make sure to rotate it regularly to ensure all sides receive adequate light.

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If you don't have a suitable window, you can use artificial lighting to supplement natural light. Use LED grow lights and keep them on for 12-14 hours a day.

2. Watering

One of the common mistakes made in succulent care is overwatering. Ogre Ear Succulent is no exception. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. During the growing season (spring and summer), water the plant once a week. In winter, reduce watering to once every two weeks.

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To check if the soil is dry, stick your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry to the touch, it's time to water the plant.

3. Soil

Ogre Ear Succulent prefers well-draining soil that allows excess water to escape quickly. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix that contains perlite or sand. Avoid using regular potting soil as it retains too much moisture.

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If you can't find a cactus or succulent potting mix, you can make your own by mixing equal parts of perlite, sand, and peat moss.

4. Temperature

Ogre Ear Succulent thrives in warm temperatures between 60Â°F and 75Â°F (15Â°C and 24Â°C). Keep the plant away from cold drafts, air conditioning, or heating vents, which can cause stress and damage to the leaves.

5. Fertilizer

Feed Ogre Ear Succulent with a balanced fertilizer once every month during the growing season (spring and summer). Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength and apply it to the soil. Do not fertilize the plant during the dormant season (fall and winter).

Propagation of Ogre Ear Succulent

1. Stem Cuttings

Take stem cuttings from the plant during the growing season (spring or summer). Choose a healthy stem without any signs of damage or disease. Cut a 3-4 inch long stem with a sharp, clean knife. Allow the cutting to dry for a day or two before planting it in well-draining soil.

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Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone before planting it to increase the chances of successful rooting.

2. Leaf Cuttings

Ogre Ear Succulent can also propagate from leaf cuttings. Choose a healthy, mature leaf and gently twist it off the stem. Allow the leaf to dry for a day or two before planting it in well-draining soil.

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Make sure the end that was attached to the stem is facing down when planting the leaf cutting.

Pests and Diseases

1. Mealybugs

Mealybugs are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They appear as white cottony masses on the leaves or stems. To remove them, use cotton swabs dipped in alcohol to wipe them off. You can also use insecticidal soap to kill them.

2. Root Rot

Root rot is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, soft stems, and a foul smell. To treat root rot, remove the affected parts of the plant and repot it in fresh soil.

FAQs

Q1. How often should I water Ogre Ear Succulent?

A1. Water the plant once a week during the growing season (spring and summer). In winter, reduce watering to once every two weeks.

Q2. Can I grow Ogre Ear Succulent indoors?

A2. Yes, you can grow Ogre Ear Succulent indoors. Place the plant near a window that receives bright, indirect sunlight.

Q3. How do I fertilize Ogre Ear Succulent?

A3. Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half-strength once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize the plant during the dormant season (fall and winter).