Ghost Plant Care in Australia – From Soil to Sunlight

The Ghost Plant (Graptopetalum paraguayense) is a stunning rosette-forming succulent known for its silvery-grey leaves that often blush pink or lavender in bright sunlight. Native to Mexico, it has become a favourite among Australian gardeners for its drought tolerance, minimal maintenance needs, and ornamental trailing habit. Whether in pots, rockeries, or hanging baskets, the Ghost Plant thrives with the right light, soil, and feeding routine.

Ghost Plants grow year-round in mild climates, with peak activity in spring and autumn. Their fleshy leaves store water, allowing them to handle dry spells, but they produce stronger colour and fuller growth when given optimal conditions.

Ghost Plant Growing Conditions

Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade. In hotter inland regions, morning sun with afternoon shade prevents leaf scorch, while coastal areas can enjoy full sun for richer colour.
Soil: Needs a sharply draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Amend with coarse sand or perlite for better drainage. Avoid heavy, compact soils that retain moisture.
Climate: Grows well across Australia in temperate to subtropical zones. Protect from frost and prolonged cold, as these can damage foliage.

Ghost Plants can be grown directly in well-draining garden beds or in containers where their trailing stems are displayed. Regardless of location, they benefit from a consistent, balanced fertiliser routine to maintain colour and compact growth.

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Best Fertiliser for Ghost Plants (In-Ground vs Pots)

Ghost Plants respond best to balanced feeding, but too much nitrogen can cause them to stretch and lose their signature colour. A controlled approach ensures healthy, compact rosettes with vivid tones.

In-Ground Ghost Plants:

Apply a slow-release succulent fertiliser with a balanced or low-nitrogen NPK (e.g., 10-10-10 or 14-14-14) in early spring and again in autumn.
Water in thoroughly after applying to avoid fertiliser burn.
Skip feeding during extreme summer heat to prevent stress.

Potted Ghost Plants:

Feed every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a liquid fertiliser such as NPK 20-20-20 at half strength.
Flush pots with fresh water every 2–3 months to prevent salt build-up.

Seasonal Feeding in Australia:

Spring (Sept–Nov): Begin feeding as new growth appears.
Summer (Dec–Feb): Reduce feeding frequency during very hot weather.
Autumn (Mar–May): Feed to strengthen plants before cooler months.
Winter (Jun–Aug): Minimal or no feeding, except in warm tropical climates.

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Common Ghost Plant Problems & How Proper Feeding Helps

Ghost Plants are resilient succulents, but they can still suffer from issues if watering, light, or nutrition are not balanced. A targeted care routine with the correct cactus and succulent fertiliser helps maintain their colour, form, and vigour.

Leggy Growth: Caused by insufficient sunlight or excess nitrogen. Relocate to a brighter position and feed with a low-nitrogen, balanced succulent fertiliser.
Leaf Yellowing: Often a sign of overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Improve drainage and apply a fertiliser with essential trace elements to restore vitality.
Root Rot: Triggered by prolonged moisture in the soil. Use a well-draining cactus mix and only water when the soil is fully dry.
Pale or Faded Colour: Linked to low potassium or reduced sun exposure. Increase light levels and feed with a potassium-rich succulent fertiliser for vibrant foliage.

Recommended from Complete Grow: Keep your Ghost Plant thriving with our Cactus Succulent Plant Food Fertiliser Concentrate (NPK 2-7-7). Specially formulated for succulents, cacti, jade, and aloe, it delivers the precise nutrient balance needed for compact growth and striking colour. Apply at half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth for best results.

Ghost Plant Care – Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water a Ghost Plant?
Water only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2–3 weeks in warm months and less in winter.

Can Ghost Plants grow indoors?
Yes, provided they receive bright, indirect light. A sunny windowsill or well-lit indoor spot is ideal.

Do Ghost Plants need special soil?
Yes, use a free-draining cactus or succulent mix to prevent root rot.

How do I propagate a Ghost Plant?
Ghost Plants can be easily propagated from leaf cuttings or stem segments. Allow cuttings to callus for a day or two before planting in dry soil.

Why is my Ghost Plant turning green instead of silver?
This can occur if the plant is grown in low light. Increase sunlight exposure to restore its pale, silvery tone.