Tips for Growing Succulents

Succulents are heralded as low-maintenance plants, but that designation doesn’t necessarily mean “no maintenance.” For success with succulents right off the bat, go with some of the easier-to-grow varieties such as jade plant.

Generally speaking, a greener leaf indicates an easygoing temperament, which is caused by more chlorophyll. Begin with the verdant varieties and then move on to the grays and blues as you gain confidence.

For landscape plants, try sedums like "Lemon Coral" groundcover and sempervivum, the stonecrop known as “hens and chicks.” For all your succulents, read plant tags and online directions for the best planting tips and care instructions.

Tip: Some succulents can be easily propagated by pulling leaves and placing them on good quality potting soil. Keep the soil slightly moist, but not wet, until roots develop and the plant grows. They will progress at their own speed, which is slow and steady.

The right planter gives succulents the best chance of success in your landscape. Terra cotta and unglazed ceramic containers are natural choices. These materials are porous and will help pull moisture out of the soil, allowing for more air around the plant roots. Add extra protection in rainy climates by filling the plant saucer with small pebbles before placing the planter on top.

Succulents may outgrow their containers. When they do, it's simple to divide and repot the plants.

Succulents have shallow roots and require well-draining soil, but not sand. A potting mix formulated for succulents and cacti is the best option for container-grown succulents.

When planting in-ground, amend the soil with good-quality organic compost to improve drainage.

We imagine that succulents like desert conditions and that means lots of sunshine, correct? Not necessarily. Full, direct sunlight can burn the leaves of some succulents. The best light combination for most succulents is bright morning light and filtered afternoon sunshine.

Indoors, place succulents near a sunny window. If you notice the plant getting leggy and stretching for light, move to a brighter location. You can also rotate the plant every few weeks for balanced growth.

In some growing regions, like the Southeastern states, humidity and high temperatures can be a challenge. Succulents are very forgiving plants, and although they prefer a dry environment, most will survive in high humidity. Aim to keep indoor temperatures between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Succulents store water in their leaves and, for this reason, the thicker the leaf, the less water the plant will need. Look for varieties like jade plant, aloe, euphorbia (spurges) and agave.

Succulents need fresh air and ventilation. Layered succulent arrangements are as pretty as any bouquet of roses, but that’s not an ideal environment for the long-term. Give your plants space to breathe and soak up sunlight. Terrarium-style projects are popular with succulents.

Keep in mind that a true terrarium is a sealed environment with plants that produce all the water and nutrition to survive, which creates a moist atmosphere not suitable for succulents. Choose an open container for a terrarium-like home for succulents.

Succulents are adapted to poor soils and harsh climates and don't require a lot of fertilizer. If you're used to growing roses and colorful annuals, this can be an adjustment. But keep in mind that just like the temptation to overwater, you can over-fertilize succulents, too.

Essential tips for fertilizing succulents:

• Add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil with new plantings.
• Fertilize during the growing season, after last frost in spring, and stop about a month before the first frost in fall.
• Use a balanced, liquid plant fertilizer mixed to half-strength for monthly treatments.
• Look for organic fertilizer spikes that you insert in the potting mix and slowly release nutrients for up to a year.