Question
Hi Diana,

I have had a Somona succulent for about 4 or 5 years now, which has been producing bright peachy-pink flowers throughout the year, and in larger numbers every Summer.  This spring I noticed some new flowers that were a really pale pink, mixed with white... And all the new flowers that have started to bloom since then are even more pale and more and more white.  The plant has been in the same sunny window for a couple of years now, and the leaves are not faded or bleached - just the flowers.  Do I need to fertilize more often?  Could you tell me why this might be happening?

Thank you,
Monique

Answer
Dear Monique,

I wonder if it is possible for you to send a photo of your plant and the botanical name?

The usual reason for colours fading is lack of fertiliser.  The main components of plant fertilisers are nitrogen for leaves, phosphates for roots and potash for flowers.  Potting compost usually contains enough nutrients for a couple of months but after this a fertiliser must be used during the growing season - feeding is then stopped or greatly reduced during the dormant period.  

My preferred fertiliser is in powder form which disolves in water but you could use a liquid fertiliser or sticks. But whichever you choose make sure that potash is included.

I hope the above helps.

Diana