Whats the deal with Succulents?

Succulents are found all around the world, more often than not in a dessert type environment. These cute looking fellas are all the rage nowadays, but are they the right plant for your environment?

Light- This can be one of the most difficult parts of the natural environment to replicate. You must keep in mind that the majority of these plants are coming from desert type environments and enjoy a ton of sunlight. Remember when placing your succulent, even though they are reasonably hardy, they will not grow without adequate light. A sunny windowsill is often the best place for them. In the summer they can be take outside and placed in full sun as well. There are many types of succulents so be sure to do additional research for best practice, this is a general overview for succulents.

Watering- One of the most common mistakes people make owning succulents is over watering them. Again keep in mind, in nature, the succulents are coming from a desert environment. The best strategy is to give them as close to a natural environment as possible. It does not rain in the desert often, but when it does, it pours. Succulents are used to this so when you can emulate it. Allow the soil to completely dry out, and then completely soak the plant until the water is flowing through and running out the drainage holes. Generally this is once every 1-3 weeks, depending on conditions and the soil you are using.

Soil- Most houseplants you can get by with a standard potting mix, not so with succulents. Again, dessert dwelling plant, thus very different requirements from the typical indoor tropical. There are mixes that can be bought commercially and will often be listed as a succulent or cactus mix, these will make your succulent a happy home. The name of the game here is drainage, so ensure you always have drainage holes in any pot you plant succulents in, you do not want your succulent sitting in soggy soil.

By following these simple steps you can bring a little desert landscape into your home, happy planting!