Succulents are some of the most versatile, low-maintenance, and visually striking plants you can grow. Perfect for both experienced gardeners and beginners, these hardy plants are known for their ability to thrive in various conditions with just a little care. To help you get started, we’ve created this guide to teach you some of the basics about succulents.
The Basics of Succulent Care
Sunlight Requirements
Succulents love sunlight! Ideally, they need 4-6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily. While many thrive in full sun, be cautious of intense midday rays that can scorch their leaves. If you're growing indoors, place them near a south- or east-facing window for the best exposure.
Watering Tips
One of the most common mistakes with succulents is overwatering. Succulents store water in their fleshy leaves, stems, and roots, so they only need to be watered when the soil is completely dry. Typically, watering once every 1-2 weeks is sufficient, but this depends on the season and humidity levels. Always use a pot with excellent drainage to avoid soggy soil, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer Needs
Succulents don’t need a lot of fertilizer, but a little boost during their growth period (spring and summer) can go a long way. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half strength once a month to encourage healthy growth. During the fall and winter, they go dormant and don’t require feeding.
Soil Selection
The right soil is crucial for succulents. Use a fast-draining cactus or succulent soil mix to prevent water from sitting around their roots. You can also mix standard potting soil with materials like sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Where and How to Plant Succulents
Succulents can adapt to various planting environments. They’re perfect for container gardening, whether it’s a small pot on your windowsill or a trendy terrarium. They can also thrive in garden beds, rock gardens, or even wall planters.
Outdoors, they do best in sunny, well-drained areas, such as rocky or sandy soil. Indoors, they thrive in well-lit spaces with plenty of airflow.
Seasonal and Lifespan Care
Succulents are mostly perennials, thriving year after year with proper care. Though low-maintenance, a little effort—like removing spent blooms and dry leaves—keeps them healthy. Some, like sedum, tolerate cold, but most need to be indoors during winter. In cooler climates like southwestern Pennsylvania, cold-hardy varieties such as hens-and-chicks (Sempervivum) or stonecrop (Sedum) are great options. For indoors, popular choices like echeveria, jade, and aloe vera thrive year-round. Do they bloom? Yes! Many succulents produce stunning flowers in spring and summer, adding bright colors to their hardy foliage.
Visit us for more hands-on tips and garden inspiration. Whether you're experienced or just starting, there’s a succulent for everyone!