Succulents 101 - The Ultimate Guide
Succulents are one of the seemingly* easiest plants to own and grow. But there can sometimes be confusion about when to water them, where to keep them and if they can be kept healthy when they are amongst other plant varieties. We are here to help with a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about succulents, so you are set up for success!
Varieties of Succulents
Succulents come in a dazzling array of shapes, sizes, and colours. Here are some favourites that thrive in Australia:
Aloe Vera
Known for its medicinal properties, Aloe Vera is a popular choice for sunny spots. It boasts spiky, fleshy leaves and can double as a natural remedy for burns.
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
This classic succulent is believed to bring good luck. With its thick, shiny leaves, it's perfect for indoor or outdoor pots.
Echeveria
These rosette-shaped beauties come in a variety of colours, from pale greens to pinks and purples, adding a pop of vibrancy to any collection.
Sedum
Often used as ground cover, Sedum varieties like "Donkey's Tail" or "Autumn Joy" are hardy and stunning.
Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum)
Named for their rosette "hens" and smaller offshoots "chicks," these are perfect for rock gardens or quirky pots.
Caring for Succulents
Succulents are the ultimate low-maintenance plant, but they still need some TLC. Here's how to keep them happy:
1. Light Requirements
- Outdoors: Succulents thrive in full sun to partial shade. In the Aussie summer, protect them from the harsh midday sun, which can scorch their leaves.
- Indoors: Place them near a bright window that gets plenty of indirect sunlight. Too much shade can lead to leggy, pale plants.
2. Watering
- Succulents hate being overwatered! Follow the soak and dry method : let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
- Water less frequently in winter when growth slows. Overwatering can cause root rot, their number one enemy.
3. Soil and Drainage
- Use well-draining soil designed for succulents or cacti.
- Ensure your pots have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
4. Fertilising
- Feed your succulents with a diluted liquid fertiliser during the growing season (spring and summer) to encourage growth and vibrant colours.
Indoor vs Outdoor: Where Should Succulents Live?
The great indoors or the wide-open outdoors? Here's how to decide:
- Indoors: Great for temperature-sensitive succulents like Jade Plants or smaller varieties like Echeverias. They also thrive in bathrooms, where humidity levels can be slightly higher.
- Outdoors: Hardy succulents like Agaves, Aloe, and Sedums love the Australian sun and are perfect for garden beds, rock gardens, or outdoor pots.
If you live in areas prone to frost, bring your outdoor succulents inside during the winter months to protect them.
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Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning your succulents helps them look tidy and healthy. Here's what to do:
- Remove Dead Leaves: Gently pull off any dried or yellowing leaves at the base of the plant.
- Cut Back Overgrowth: For leggy plants, use sterilised scissors to trim stems back to a more compact size. You can even propagate the cuttings!
- Propagate Offshoots: Many succulents produce baby plants, known as pups. Remove these carefully and plant them in fresh soil to expand your collection.
Can I keep other plants near succulents?
Yes, you can! But there are a few things to consider.
Light Requirements
Succulents typically prefer bright, direct, or indirect sunlight, whereas some other plants, like ferns or calatheas, may prefer low to medium light conditions.
- Solution: Group plants with similar light needs. For example, pair succulents with sun-loving herbs, cacti, or hardy Mediterranean plants.
Watering Needs
Succulents thrive on infrequent watering, as their fleshy leaves store water. On the other hand, tropical plants, like peace lilies or pothos, may need more regular watering.
- Solution: Avoid planting succulents and water-loving plants in the same pot. Instead, keep them in separate containers to cater to their unique watering needs.
Soil Compatibility
Succulents require fast-draining, sandy soil, while many other plants prefer rich, moisture-retaining potting mixes.
- Solution: If combining in one arrangement (like a mixed planter), use a barrier to separate the soil types or use plants with overlapping soil preferences, such as cacti and drought-tolerant herbs like rosemary.
Humidity Levels
Succulents prefer dry air, while plants like ferns and calatheas enjoy humid environments.
- Solution: Position succulents away from overly humid plants, or use a humidifier sparingly to avoid creating a damp environment around succulents.
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Design and Aesthetics
When grouping plants, consider their growth patterns and aesthetics. Succulents often stay compact, so they pair well visually with taller, arching plants like snake plants or even trailing varieties like a string of pearls.
Pest Prevention
Some plants are more prone to pests like spider mites or fungus gnats, which can affect nearby plants. Succulents, with their thick leaves, are generally resistant to pests, but proximity to infested plants can still pose a risk.
- Solution: Keep an eye on all plants in your grouping and act quickly if pests appear.
Best Pairings for Succulents
For harmonious cohabitation, pair succulents with other drought-tolerant plants such as:
- Snake plants (Sansevieria)
- ZZ plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
- Cacti
- Rosemary or lavender (if you're blending edibles and ornamentals)
Fun Facts about Succulents
They're Built for Survival
Succulents have thick, fleshy leaves, stems, or roots designed to store water, making them perfect for Australia's often harsh and dry climate. Many Australian gardeners love them because they're drought-tolerant and can thrive with minimal care.
They're Ancient Plants
Succulents have been around for millions of years. They evolved in arid regions to cope with extreme conditions, a testament to their resilience. In fact, some succulents can live for decades with the right care—how's that for a long-term housemate?
Aloe Vera: The Aussie Staple
Aloe vera, one of the most well-known succulents, is a household favourite in Australia. Not only does it look great, but it's also a natural remedy for sunburn—something most Aussies can appreciate after a day at the beach.
They're Air Purifiers
Did you know succulents can improve indoor air quality? Some varieties, like the snake plant (Sansevieria), release oxygen at night, making them great for bedrooms. Plus, they add a touch of greenery to any space!
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They're Global Citizens
While succulents are often associated with deserts, they come from various habitats worldwide, including rainforests. Australia's native succulents, such as the pigface (Carpobrotus), are perfect for coastal gardens and are loved for their vibrant flowers.
Low Maintenance, High Reward
Succulents are a dream for anyone without a green thumb. They require little water, thrive in well-draining soil, and can adapt to a range of light conditions. In Australia, they're especially handy for gardeners dealing with water restrictions.
They Can Be Propagated Easily
One of the coolest things about succulents is how easy they are to propagate. A single leaf or cutting can grow into a whole new plant. This makes them perfect for sharing with friends and family—or expanding your collection without spending a cent!
Variety is the Spice of Life
Succulents come in a staggering array of shapes, colours, and sizes. From the spiky elegance of agaves to the rosette-shaped beauty of echeverias, there's a succulent for everyone.
They're Pet-Friendly (Mostly)
While some succulents are toxic to pets, others, like haworthias and burro's tail, are non-toxic and safe for furry friends. Always double-check before adding new plants to your home if you have pets.
They Make Stunning Green Walls
Succulents are ideal for creating vertical gardens. Their shallow roots and slow growth make them perfect for Australia's sunny outdoor spaces or even indoor installations.
There you have it! We hope this has inspired you to try grow your own succulents and feel confident about keeping them healthy all year round.