Growing Succulents

January 22, 2025 peacefulvalley

Choosing Your Succulents

Succulents are beautiful, fantastical plants that can be grown in containers, indoors, or outdoors. Great beginner succulents include:

Kalanchoe
Aeonium
Agave
Aloe
Echeveria
Sedum
Sempervivum

When designing your arrangement, decide if it will be indoors or outdoors, big or small, or used as a patio accent, centerpiece, or even a wreath. Select a focal plant and complement it with other plants. Use odd numbers for visually pleasing arrangements.

Selecting the Right Containers

Succulents can thrive in many types of containers, as long as their needs are met. Consider the following:

Shallow containers are ideal for succulents' shallow roots and help maintain consistent moisture.
Tall containers are better in wetter climates as they provide more variation in moisture levels, being drier at the top and wetter at the bottom.
Non-porous containers like metal retain more moisture, making them suitable for arid climates.
Porous pots like unglazed terra cotta are better for wet climates.

Preparing the Soil

Succulents prefer light, well-draining soil. Use a mix of half high-quality potting soil and half perlite or pumice. To prevent soil from escaping through drainage holes, place mesh or a piece of paper towel at the bottom of the pot.

Planting and Caring for Succulents

Start planting with the largest succulent and work your way to the smallest.
Top-dress the soil with pebbles or crushed rocks. This helps keep the perlite in place, prevents moisture from pooling at the plant base, and adds a decorative touch.
Water sparingly. The plumper the leaves, the less water the succulent needs. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting and Seasonal Care

Succulents prefer dappled light instead of direct sunlight. Some varieties can stay outdoors year-round, while others may need to be brought indoors during winter. A sunny windowsill is an excellent spot for year-round growth.