Succulents & Aerial Roots

Have you noticed roots growing in places they shouldn't be? Then there's a good chance your succulent has aerial roots. 

Aerial roots? Does that mean my plant baby is dying?? 

No, it's not verging on death, don't worry. But it is a sign your succulent needs some more attention.

So, what exactly are Aerial roots and what causes them in the first place? Aerial roots are small pink or white roots that grow along the stem of the succulent. Not all succulents develop Aerial roots, they're more commonly seen in Sedums and Echeverias. Often times Aerial roots are a sign of underwatering, particularly in humid environments. Essentially, when a succulent is underwatered it will begin to sprout roots along the stem as a way to absorb moisture from the air instead of the soil. Occasionally, Aerial roots can be a sign your plant baby isn't getting enough light; although this is usually only the case if your plant is beginning to stretch out. 

So what can I do about it?

Well, start by watering your thirsty succulent! It's important to give the plant a nice thorough soak, make sure the soil is moist all the way through. Likewise if your plant is stretching, check to ensure it is getting the proper amount of sunlight. If you find your succulent is lacking the light it needs, considering investing in a grow light. Overtime, your plant will restore itself to peak health! Eventually, the Aerial roots will brown and thicken to look like thin branches. Although you don't need to remove the Aerial roots, if it's looking untamed you can get rid of them by using a sanitized scissor or tweezers. Sometimes Aerial roots can even be beneficial. If you find that your plant baby has Aerial roots, you can take a cutting of the stem and propagate it! The aerial roots can make it easier for the plant to absorb nutrients and water in the soil quickly. This works particularly well for trailing succulents like the Burro's Tail plant. 

Pictured below, you can see two of our Jelly Bean plants with aerial roots that can be propagated like the Burro’s Tail plant.

So in short, Aerial roots are not something to panic about and can be easily resolved. As long as you take steps to provide proper water and sunlight to your plant baby, they don't pose any threats.