Page 53 - Tạp chí bonsai cây cảnh BCI 2014Q3

fruits or new branches develop, while from the lower
one, a spine arises. The spine is not connected with the
tissues below and no harm occurs to the epidermal
layer of tissues when the spine is pulled out. In con-
trast, if a spine is taken out of succulents the epidermal
tissue beneath is damaged. Areoles are usually armed
with spines as well as fine barbed hairs resembling a
pincushion.
A large number of succulent plants originated in
Africa, in areas where the vegetation faces acute short-
age of moisture. The majority of vegetation there has
shallow roots that absorb moisture from dew at night.
Water is conserved in the fleshy leaves. Since transpi-
ration usually takes place through leaves, the size and
number of leaves in most succulents are fewer result-
ing in minimal loss of water through transpiration.
Arrangement of leaves in the form of rosette is also
effective in reducing transpiration. Some protective
devices like waxy layer, white felt or woolly hairs on
the surface of leaves and stem are also common in
succulents. Many of the succulents are characterized
by having fleshy stem base, cylindrical, oval or flat in
structure.
Succulents will grow successfully only when suit-
able environment is provided. They require plenty
of air and sunshine though some prefer semi-shade
depending on the variety. They also need protection
from heavy rain and storms. It is better to shelter all
succulents in shade where they get plenty of air and
bright light.

The Succulent Family:

Soil composition:
The succulents are group of plants varying widely
in their characteristics and growth habits. Therefore,
the preparation of potting mixture is very important
for their proper growth. As a result, a number of soil
ingredients are suggested that are suitable for this
particular plant. The composition of soil in general
should include locally available soil, organic manure,
brick particles, sand, coco peat and leaf mold in ap-
propriate proportions.

Fertilizers:
All succulents require three major nutrients: ni-
trogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K) for
normal growth. But quantitatively the requirements
are much less than other plants, as they have fewer or
no leaves. A good general-purpose formula is 1:2:2
NPK, meaning much lower proportion of nitrogen
than the other two elements. However, slow release
nutrient sources mainly of organic origin are better Facing page; Jade on rock in brown oval pot by Jyoti & Nikunj
for these plants. Parekh
This page, top; Multi trunk style Jade with golden green color on
Potting and repotting: the new leaves in a boat shaped brown pot.
Potting and repotting are always very important By Jyoti & Nikunj Parekh
for plants. Use relatively shallow pots for succulents. Bottom; Cascade style Jade by Jyoti & Nikunj Parekh
Cover the holes of the pot with plastic mesh. Fill a

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