Mastering Adenium Care
Commonly known as the "Desert Rose," Adeniums are resilient succulents that thrive with the right balance of sun, water, and specialized care.
Sunlight
Adeniums love the sun! They require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to bloom profusely. Shaping is best done by rotating the plant specifically towards sunlight.
Watering
Follow the 'Soak and Dry' method. Water thoroughly until it drains out, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Soil Mix
Use a well-draining, gritty mix. A blend of 50% cactus soil, 30% perlite, and 20% coarse sand or pumice works best to prevent root rot.
Temperature
They thrive in warm temperatures (25°C - 35°C). They are not frost-tolerant; bring them indoors or protect them if temperatures drop below 10°C.
Pruning
Prune in early spring to encourage branching and a fuller shape. Remove dead or weak branches. The sap is toxic, so wear gloves and wash hands after handling.
Pests
Watch out for aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Treat early with neem oil or a gentle insecticidal soap spray. Check undersides of leaves regularly.
Seasonal Care Routine
Spring & Summer (Growing Season)
This is when your Adenium is most active. Water regularly when the soil is dry. Fertilize every 2 weeks with a balanced (20-20-20) water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Expect prolific blooming if given enough sun.
Autumn & Winter (Dormancy)
As temperatures drop, the plant will naturally drop leaves and go dormant.Stop fertilizing and drastically reduce watering (once a month or less). Keep the plant in a warm spot and protect from frost.
Troubleshooting
Yellow Leaves
Often caused by overwatering or sudden temperature changes. Can also be natural dormancy in winter.
Soft Caudex (Base)
A squishy base usually indicates root rot from overwatering. Unpot immediately, trim rotten roots, let dry, and repot in fresh dry soil.
Flower Drop
Sudden changes in location, lack of water during blooming, or extreme heat can cause buds to drop before opening.
Leggy Growth
Not enough sunlight. Move to a brighter location and prune back leggy stems to encourage compact growth.