This post is all about burro's care.
Burro's tail is a succulent plant native to Mexico and is a popular houseplant. It is known for its trailing stems that grow up to 3 feet long and are covered in small, plump leaves that resemble beads. The scientific name of Burro's tail is Sedum morganianum.
This plant is easy to care for and makes a great addition to any indoor space. In this article, we will discuss all the important aspects of Burro's tail care, including light and temperature requirements, watering and humidity, soil, fertilizer, propagation, pruning, troubleshooting, growing problems, pests, and diseases.
Burro's Tail Overview
​Common Names | ​Donkey's Tail or Horse's Tail |
Scientific Name | Sedum morganianum |
Family | Crassulaceae |
Height | Up to 3 feet (90 cm) long |
Light | Bright, indirect light for at least six hours a day |
Soil | A mix of cactus soil and perlite or pumice |
Watering | Once a week or less |
Pests & Diseases | Mealybugs, spider mites, and root rot |
Burro's Tail care
Light & Temperature
Burro's tail requires bright, indirect light. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
This plant thrives in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It is essential to avoid placing the plant near drafty windows or doors as it can damage the foliage.
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Water & Humidity
Burro's tail is a succulent plant and is sensitive to overwatering. Allow the soil to dry completely between watering, and it is better to underwater than overwater.
During the winter months, reduce watering and let the soil dry out even more before watering. This plant prefers dry air, so it does not require high humidity. However, it can benefit from occasional misting, which helps keep the leaves plump and hydrated.
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Soil
Burro's tail prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use cactus or succulent soil for this plant. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
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Fertilizer
Burro's tail does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize the plant once every 2-3 months during the growing season, which is spring and summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and dilute it to half strength.
Repotting
Burro's tail does not need frequent repotting as it prefers to be root-bound. You can repot the plant when the roots start to outgrow the pot.
Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current pot and use fresh, well-draining soil.
Propagation
Burro's tail can be propagated through stem cuttings. To propagate, cut a stem 4-5 inches long and let it dry out for a day or two.
Plant the cutting in well-draining soil, and water it sparingly. The cutting will start to root within a few weeks.
Pruning
Burro's tail does not require much pruning. However, if you want to shape the plant or control its growth, you can pinch back the stem tips. Pinching back will encourage branching and make the plant bushier.
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Troubleshooting
Burro's tail is a relatively problem-free plant, but it can suffer from root rot if overwatered. If you notice the leaves turning yellow and mushy, it's a sign of root rot.
Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the plant is severely affected, you may need to repot it with fresh soil.
Growing Problems
The Burro's tail is generally a resilient and low-maintenance plant, but it can still experience some growing problems.
One of the most common issues is stem rot, which is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. The plant's stem will become soft and mushy and eventually die. Another issue is leaf drop, which can occur when the plant is exposed to cold temperatures or dry air.
If the leaves are dropping due to cold temperatures, simply move the plant to a warmer location. If the problem is dry air, you can increase humidity by misting the plant or placing a tray of water nearby.
Pests
The Burro's tail is relatively pest-resistant, but it can still attract mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.
Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck sap from the plant and excrete a sticky substance.
Spider mites are tiny pests that cause yellowing and speckling on the leaves, and they create webs between the leaves.
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems and suck sap from the plant.
To get rid of pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. If the infestation is severe, you may need to use a stronger pesticide. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and keep the plant away from children and pets.
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Diseases
The Burro's tail is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. Powdery mildew appears as a white or gray powder on the leaves, while leaf spot causes brown or black spots on the leaves.
To prevent these diseases, be sure to provide good air circulation around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves. If you do notice signs of disease, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and keep the plant away from children and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much sun does a burro's tail need?
Burro's tail plants prefer bright, indirect light and can also tolerate some direct sun. However, they can be sensitive to intense, direct sunlight, especially in the hottest part of the day, and may develop sunburned spots or drop leaves.
It's generally best to provide them with bright, filtered light, such as that provided by a sheer curtain or a few feet away from a sunny window.
Can burro's tail survive winter?
Burro's Tail is a type of succulent that is native to Mexico, and it is sensitive to frost and freezing temperatures. In colder climates, it is often grown as a houseplant, where it can be protected from the cold. If you want to keep your Burro's Tail outside during the winter, it's best to bring it indoors or provide it with frost protection.
How do you make a burro's tail fuller?
To make a burro's tail fuller, you can take stem cuttings and propagate them to create a fuller plant. Here are the steps you can follow:
Locate a healthy stem of the burro's tail that has several leaves attached.
Cut the stem at a point where it is at least 3 inches long.
Remove the leaves from the bottom 1-2 inches of the stem, leaving only the topmost leaves intact.
Allow the stem to dry for a few hours or overnight, until the cut end has formed a callus.
Fill a pot with well-draining cactus or succulent soil, and make a small hole in the center.
Insert the cut end of the stem into the soil, making sure it is secure.
Water the cutting sparingly, just enough to moisten the soil, and then let it dry out completely before watering again.
Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light.
Wait a few weeks to a few months for the cutting to grow roots and produce new leaves, at which point it can be transplanted to a larger pot with other burro's tail cuttings to create a fuller plant.
Regular pruning can also help create a fuller burro's tail plant. Pinch off the tips of the stems to encourage branching, and remove any dead or yellowing leaves.
When should I repot my burro's tail?
Burro's tail can be repotted every 2-3 years or when it has outgrown its current pot. It's best to repot during the active growing season in spring or early summer.
When repotting, choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one and use a well-draining potting mix. Avoid overwatering the plant after repotting and give it some time to adjust to its new environment.
Summary
In conclusion, the Burro's tail is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that can add a unique touch to any indoor or outdoor space. With the right care, you can enjoy its cascading stems and plump leaves for years to come.
Remember to provide the plant with bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and water only when the soil is dry. Avoid overwatering and keep an eye out for pests and diseases. With a little bit of attention, your Burro's tail can thrive and add a touch of green to your life.