Thriving with the Prickly Ones: A Guide to Planting and Keeping Your Succulents Alive (Even if You Can’t Keep Anything Else Green)

Starting a garden can feel overwhelming. The fear of keeping plants alive may discourage you from beginning. That’s why succulents are ideal for beginners. They require less maintenance and are easier to care for. Succulents are hardy, low-maintenance plants that offer a great starting point for your gardening journey. To help you kick off your next awesome project, here are some practical tips and techniques that you’ll find useful.

Choose A Well-Draining Potting Mix

Succulents need well-draining soil to prevent root rot. You can use a cactus potting mix or make your own by mixing regular potting soil with sand or perlite.

Select A Pot With Drainage Holes

A pot with drainage holes will help excess water to escape, preventing the soil from becoming too wet.

Water Sparingly

Overwatering is one of the biggest problems with succulents. Only water your plants when the soil is completely dry. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate you are in, but as a general rule, water once a week during the summer and once every two weeks during the winter.

Provide Plenty Of Sunlight

Succulents love bright light and thrive in sunny locations. Place your plants in a sunny spot, but protect them from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.

Give Them Space

Succulents can grow quite large, so give them enough space to spread out. Don’t overcrowd them in the pot, and avoid planting them too close together.

Fertilize Sparingly

Succulents don’t need a lot of fertilizer, so use a low-nitrogen fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Keep An Aye Out For Pests

Mealybugs and spider mites are common pests that can damage your succulents. Check your plants regularly for signs of infestation, and treat them promptly if you see any pests. Hopefully you don’t have this issue, but if you do, don’t just give up and throw out the succulent. First, separate the infested plant from the healthy ones. Try sprinkling cinnamon into the soil, and let it dry out completely. The little bugs will die, and you can replant your beautiful succulent sans bugs!

Final Takeaways

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a self-proclaimed plant novice, succulents offer a wonderful opportunity to cultivate your green thumb and add a touch of natural beauty to your space. Remember, the key to succulent success lies in providing the right conditions, such as well-draining soil, adequate sunlight, and minimal watering. With a little care and attention, your succulents will thrive and bring joy to your home for years to come.