Succulents with bumps, often referring to specific varieties with raised "bumps" or "warts" on their leaves, are distinctive members of the succulent family. It's their unique bumps that set them apart. But how do you care for these bumpy-leafed succulents? This guide delves into the comprehensive care guide to ensure they thrive and flourish in your garden. Let's get started!

What is the bumpy-leafed succulents

Bumpy-leafed succulents are unique and captivating within the succulent family. They are typically the result of hybrid or arise from genetic mutations. These funny lumps appear on the leaves, making them look unique, but they don't harm the plant. Just like regular succulent leaves, these lumps help store water, which allows the succulent plant to survive in dry conditions.

Common Succulents with Bumps:

1. Echeveria Raindrops

3. Echeveria 'Etna'

4. Echeveria 'Bumps'

5. Echeveria Rosima Raindrop

How to Care for Succulents With Bumps

Sunlight

Unlike other succulent plants, bumpy succulents thrive under ample sunlight, often producing full, eye-catching bumps when exposed to full outdoor sunshine. So, place them in an area where they can soak up the rays for 6-8 hours each day. This natural light is crucial for their growth and the development of those charming bumps.

During the peak of the day, especially in summer, offer some shade from the intense midday sun. This can be achieved using shade cloth or placing them in a spot with dappled light. It ensures they receive the right amount of light without getting scorched.

When cultivating bumpy succulents indoors, it's essential to acknowledge that they'll face limitations in natural light exposure. This could affect their overall health and appearance. To compensate for the limited natural light, consider introducing succulent grow lights.

Temperature

Achieving vividness in bumpy succulents hinges on two crucial factors: temperature differentials and ample sunlight. The greater the temperature fluctuation between morning and night, the more it stimulates the production of anthocyanins in succulents. These natural pigments are responsible for the stunning colors seen in bumpy varieties.

Bumpy succulents are at their color-rich peak during spring and autumn. It's important to bear in mind that most bumpy succulents belong to the Echeveria genus and are generally not cold-tolerant. As temperatures dip below 40°F, it's time to consider relocating your bumpy succulents indoors.

Watering

Like other succulents, Bumpy succulents thrive when watered using the "soak and dry" method for watering. However, for those with thicker leaves or larger bumps, their unique structure allows them to store more water, leading to a lower watering frequency. When the leaves start to feel slightly softer, it indicates they are entering a state of mild water stress.

Bottom watering guarantees that the soil in your succulent pot is thoroughly soaked. Place your potted succulent in a container filled with water, ensuring that the water level does not surpass the pot's rim. After approximately 20 min, gently touch the top layer of soil. If it feels damp, it indicates that the soil has absorbed sufficient moisture. Carefully remove the potted succulent from the water container and place it in a well-ventilated area for further care.

Soil and Planter

Bumpy succulents have high nutrient requirements, but using pure peat moss can lead to soil compaction and inadequate drainage. We recommend mixing peat moss and gritty in a 6:4 ratio to strike the right balance. This succulent soil mix offers essential nutrients while ensuring good soil structure and adequate aeration.

Choosing the right pot size is crucial. Smaller bumpy succulents, like Echeveria Rosima Raindrop, are best suited for smaller pots. Conversely, if you aim for larger growth and more branching for Echeveria Raindrop, opt for a pot about 20% larger than the plant itself. Regardless of size, ensure the chosen pot has drainage holes at the bottom.

Fertilize

Cultivating beautiful colors and distinct bumps on Echeveria Raindrops has been a subject of interest for many succulent enthusiasts. Their experience reveals a key insight: These plants benefit from a balanced nutrient supply, particularly with a timely springtime fertilization. Utilizing slow-release succulent fertilizers provides the necessary nourishment for thick, plump leaves and sets the stage for impressive bump development. Click here to learn how to fertilize your succulents.

Common Problems

1. Why are the bumps on my succulents getting smaller?

The issue of shrinking bumps on succulents is a common concern among plant enthusiasts. During the summer, succulents tend to undergo explosive growth, resulting in larger leaves and potentially smaller or less prominent bumps. Or it is because of succulent Reversion, a natural phenomenon in succulent growth, where genetically altered succulents revert to their original, non-mutated form.

The fluctuation in bump size is a natural aspect of succulent growth. Remember that, come spring, with the nurturing embrace of nature, your succulents are likely to return to their best form. Succulent care is a journey, and embracing these natural cycles is all part of the adventure.

1. Can succulents with bumps be propagated from leaves?

Absolutely! Succulents propagated from leaves often retain the distinctive traits of their parent plant. However, leaf propagation tends to have a lower success rate compared to propagation through beheading, presenting a bit more of a challenge. Click here to learn the extra tip on succulent propagation.