Plants are a quick, inexpensive, and easy way to add something pretty and alive to your space. An indoor succulent garden fits the bill for all these things. Succulents go for a couple of dollars a pop at your local nurseries and are built to survive in the harshest conditions. They are perfect for those who forget the watering chore or do not have a green thumb.
Choosing Succulents
It is important to keep variety in mind to choose the best combination of succulents. Choose plants of different sizes, heights, shapes, and colors. The largest variance for your succulent garden should be in the height, size, and shape of the plants. It is best to choose around three colors for the succulents and not many more, as too many colors can overwhelm the eye. Sticking to just a few colors creates consistency in your garden yet provides flexibility in choosing the height, size, and types of plants you choose. Some gardening stores will already have various succulents planted in one large pot, but be aware that these plants tend to be planted too close together to stay alive in that same pot long-term.
Potting
Because they have shallow roots, succulents can grow in just about anything you have around the house, from vintage canisters to decorative pots. Try coffee mugs, pots, jars, canisters, buckets, kettles, tin cans, glassware, or any other container that might add to your current space and style. Multiple plants can be placed in the same container to create the garden's look, but be careful not to crowd the plants, as they will grow and need to be replanted in a larger container. Place some decorative stones on top if you do not want to see the soil in the plant area.
Soil
Succulent roots must be able to drain. Otherwise, the plant will die if the roots are always moist. Fill the pot with succulent soil mix. Regular potting soil is too rich and holds too much moisture for succulents, so be sure to use well-draining soil so that the water can drain properly.
Heat and Light
Succulents like to be warm and dry, and they love the light. So, if you live someplace dark and gloomy most of the winter, ensure you have some lights on for these plants, even if they are near a window. However, be careful not to place them near windows with too much sun. While succulents can handle cold weather and lack of sun for periods, the light and warmth make them happiest.
Water and Routine Care
Succulents do not need a ton of water to survive, but they must be adequately watered. They have shallow roots that should dry between each watering. They will absorb the water they need, and the rest can drain out of the bottom if there is a hole in the container. Because of this, emphasize watering them thoroughly as opposed to frequently. If you overwater them, they will plump up and look healthy before becoming sick.
All succulents will grow to larger sizes and must be repotted occasionally. Be sure not to crowd the plants in pots.
Source: doityourself.com
Links
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus