Succulent plants, which include genera such as Aloe, Echeveria and Sedumare species that store water in their fleshy leaves, stems or roots, which allows them to survive in dry environments. They are plants resistant and easy to care forand there are very beautiful ones, so they often arouse passions and are a great first option for people who are not usually very good with plants or who are just starting to care for them.

Now, although in general the care of succulents is simple, when observing how many people take care of this type of plants at home, we often find some that They «clean» their leaves with the intention of enhancing the color natural of the plant.

However, succulent experts like Eloísa, specialist in succulents (@soy_plantastic on Instagram), warn that this practice can be harmful because it eliminates prune. We tell you what pruina is and why you should not eliminate it, how to avoid mistakes that destroy it and how to clean the leaves of your succulents without removing it when they look dirty or dusty.

What is The Pruina of Succulents?

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Pruina is a waxy layer that covers the surface of the leaves and fulfills protective functions essential. It acts as a true shield against external agents present in the air, such as fungi, bacteria and pests.

Besides, helps prevent excessive evaporation, maintaining the internal hydration of the plant. Therefore, removing it, even with the intention of improving its appearance, can weaken the succulent and make it more susceptible to disease.

Why you should not eliminate the virus

By removing the pruina, the plant loses its natural barrier and is exposed to a increased risk of infection by fungi or bacteria.

It can also facilitate the proliferation of mites or mealybugs, insects that, without the bug, can adhere more easily to the leaves.

Eloísa emphasizes that the aesthetic intention of showing the real color of the succulent does not justify the risk. The protective layer It is part of the aesthetics and beauty of the plant, and preserving it ensures that it stays healthy in the long term.

Recommended care to keep the rash intact

Maintaining health requires simple but consistent care. These are some of the experts’ recommendations:

• Avoid rubbing the leaves or clean them with damp cloths.
• Do not apply chemicals or cleaners on the surface.
• Place plants in places with good air circulation and indirect light, but abundant.
• Water carefully, avoiding directly wetting the surface of the leaves.

By following these instructions, the plant can preserve its protective layer and continue to fulfill its natural function.

Common mistakes when handling succulents

A common mistake is handle roughly the leaves to adjust the shape or presentation of the plant. Even a light touch can loosen some of the pruine.

Another common habit is clean dirt with water or special plant products, which also damage this protective layer.

Eloísa emphasizes that these actions, although they may seem harmless, increase the vulnerability of the succulent and can lead to health problems that could have been avoided by simply leaving the layer intact.

How to clean succulents without removing the weed

If the succulent looks dusty or dirtythere are safe alternatives that do not compromise the risk:

• Gently shake the plant to remove loose dust.
• Use a fine brush or fan to remove particles without rubbing the surface.

These methods allow you to keep the plant clean without sacrificing its protective barrier.

Benefits of respecting prune

Respecting the pruina not only protects the succulent from pests and fungi, but also contributes to its longevity and vigor.

The plant retains its ability to retain water, It remains strong in the face of environmental changes and requires fewer external interventions to remain healthy.

Also, keep this layer protects the natural color of the plant in a gradual and healthy way, preventing it from being weakened by direct exposure or unnecessary manipulations.

5 Practical Tips for Daily Care of Succulents

In the succulent care routine, the most recommended is:

1. Handle gently, touching only the base of the plant.

2. Keep them in pots that allow good drainage.

3. Water at the base and not on the leaves.

4. Avoid chemicals and damp cloths.

5. Monitor the appearance of pests without interfering with the pest.

With these simple measures, you guarantee that the protective layer serves its purpose for yearskeeping your plants resistant and healthy.

Is know well the plants you care for in your home which will allow you to give them only what they really need, without harming them. In our free ebook indoor plants You will find many other plants that, like succulents, will help you surround yourself with greenery at home and enjoy a more lively environmenthealthier and more beautiful.