coppertone stonecrop / sedum nussbaumerianum - starter plant cuttings

Plant Description:
The Coppertone Stonecrop (Sedum nussbaumerianum) is a stunning, low-maintenance succulent known for its striking foliage and unique appearance. This vibrant plant forms a dense, spreading mat of fleshy, paddle-shaped leaves that are green with a golden-yellow to coppery hue, especially when exposed to bright light or cooler temperatures. As the plant matures, the leaves develop a beautiful copper tone, giving it its "coppertone" name. In the spring and summer, it may produce clusters of small, star-shaped, yellow flowers that add a cheerful touch to its already captivating appearance. The Coppertone Stonecrop is a perfect addition to succulent gardens, containers, and hanging baskets, offering both beauty and ease of care. It thrives in full sun and is well-suited for those looking for a hardy, drought-tolerant plant with a beautiful color palette.

Care Instructions:
1. Light:
The Coppertone Stonecrop thrives in full sun, which helps bring out its signature coppery tones. It can tolerate some light shade, but the color of its leaves may become less vibrant in lower light conditions. For the best results, place it in a spot where it can receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. A south-facing windowsill or outdoor space with plenty of sunlight is ideal.

2. Watering:
Like most succulents, the Coppertone Stonecrop is highly drought-tolerant and prefers to be watered infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, and avoid letting the plant sit in water. During the growing season (spring and summer), water it thoroughly, but be sure to let excess water drain away. In the winter, reduce watering significantly as the plant enters a dormant phase. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to ensure that the plant is not kept in soggy soil.

3. Humidity:
This succulent is adapted to dry, low-humidity environments, making it perfect for homes with typical indoor humidity levels. It does not require misting and should not be placed in high-humidity areas, as excess moisture can lead to rot or fungal issues. A dry, airy spot is ideal for this plant to thrive.

4. Temperature:
The Coppertone Stonecrop prefers temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (16°C to 27°C) during the growing season. It is not frost-tolerant and should be brought indoors if the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C). Avoid placing it in areas with drastic temperature fluctuations or near drafts, as this can stress the plant.

5. Soil:
Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix for planting. Adding perlite or coarse sand to the mix will help improve drainage. The Coppertone Stonecrop prefers a fast-draining soil to prevent water from accumulating around the roots. Well-draining soil is essential for keeping the plant healthy and avoiding root rot.

6. Fertilizer:
Fertilizing is not necessary for this plant, but if you wish to promote vigorous growth, you can feed it during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced fertilizer formulated for succulents. Fertilizing once a month should suffice. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

7. Pruning:
Pruning is minimal for the Coppertone Stonecrop. Simply remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain a tidy appearance. If the plant starts to spread too much or become leggy, you can trim it back to encourage a more compact growth habit. You can also remove offsets (baby plants) and pot them separately to grow new plants.

8. Propagation:
The Coppertone Stonecrop can be propagated from stem cuttings, offsets, or leaves. To propagate from a cutting, simply snip off a healthy stem, let it dry for a couple of days to callous, and then plant it in well-draining soil. The plant will develop roots and begin growing. Offsets can be separated and replanted as well.

Key Benefits:
Vibrant color: The beautiful golden-yellow to copper tones of the leaves make this plant an eye-catching addition to any garden, container, or indoor space.
Low-maintenance: Like most succulents, the Coppertone Stonecrop is easy to care for, requiring infrequent watering and minimal attention.
Drought-tolerant: This plant is perfect for those who prefer low-water plants, making it an excellent choice for homes or gardens with dry conditions.
Versatile decor: Its colorful foliage and spreading growth habit make it ideal for rock gardens, succulent arrangements, hanging baskets, or container gardens.
Air-purifying: Like other succulents, it helps purify indoor air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, improving indoor air quality.
With its vibrant foliage, ease of care, and stunning appearance, Coppertone Stonecrop is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a unique, colorful succulent to their collection. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced gardeners and can thrive in both indoor and outdoor settings.






Instructions for Repotting Starter Plugs of Plants:

Materials Needed:

Starter plugs or seedlings
New pots with drainage holes
High-quality potting mix
Watering can or spray bottle
Small trowel or spoon
Optional: gloves, plant labels, and marker
Steps:

1. Prepare the New Pots: Choose pots that are slightly larger than the starter plugs. Ensure they have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. Clean the pots thoroughly, especially if they have been used before, to remove any pathogens.

2. Prepare the Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix appropriate for the type of plants you are repotting. Moisten the mix slightly to make it easier to work with but avoid it being overly wet.

3. Remove Plants from Starter Plugs: Carefully remove the plants from the starter plugs. Gently squeeze the bottom of the plug or use a pencil to push the plant out if it’s stuck. Be gentle to avoid damaging the roots.

4. Add Potting Mix to New Pots: Fill the new pots one-third to one-half full with the prepared potting mix. Adjust the level based on the size of the starter plug and the plant's root system.

5. Place Plants in New Pots: Create a small hole in the center of the potting mix in the new pot. Place the plant’s roots into the hole, ensuring the top of the starter plug is level with the pot's rim.

6. Fill the Pots with Potting Mix: Gently fill the space around the roots with potting mix, pressing it down lightly to remove air pockets. Leave about an inch of space between the top of the potting mix and the rim of the pot.

7. Water the Plants: After repotting, water the plants thoroughly. Allow excess water to drain out from the bottom of the pot. This helps settle the soil and ensures the roots are in good contact with the new potting mix.

8. Provide Proper Care: Place the newly repotted plants in an appropriate environment. This includes providing the right amount of light, water, and humidity according to the specific plant's needs.

9. Label the Plants (Optional): If you're repotting different types of plants, consider labeling them with plant tags and a marker. This helps you keep track of the plants' names and care requirements. See example for this plant in images. This is available as a digital file for purchase under my shop's listings.

10. Monitor and Adjust: Keep a close eye on the repotted plants over the next few weeks. Watch for signs of stress or inadequate moisture. Adjust your care routine as needed to help the plants acclimate to their new pots and continue to thrive.