Planting Succulents In Your Garden

 In my teen  years I was lucky enough to live near a giant nursery that specialized in cacti and succulents. It is long gone but my love for these amazing plants continues on. A succulent is a plant that has adapted to dry climates by evolving into a shape that holds on to water. These juicy plants come in many shapes and colors and many have amazing flowers. While it's true that all cacti are succulents, not all succulents are cacti. Living in Southern California gives me lots of chances to grow these gems.

It is somewhat of a myth that they like to be in hot spots in the garden. They actually do a lot better with filtered sunshine. They also need water. I water mine at least once a week in the spring through fall. More on hot days. Less in the winter.

 Propagatng succulents is a great hobby for teens and adults. If you are working with plants with spines wear gloves. But many succulents do not have spines and can be handled easily.

1. Division: If the plant has many sets (babies) growing off of the main plant, these can be carefully seperated from the mother plant and repotted.

2. Broken Pieces: Many succulents go to pieces if you move them or bump them. Save these nubs, let them dry a week or so, then plant them in a mixture of sand and potting soil. They will form new roots. Water lightly until they get going so they don't rot.

3. Seed: Sometimes you will see seeds available. I've never had much luck with seeds but you can give it a try. Moss rose seems to do well from seed. Plant it in hanging planters or flower beds.

Succulents are very happy living in little communities called dish gardens. Get yourself a shallow pot made of terra cotta or plastic. Make sure it has drain holes in the bottom. Put a piece of wire mesh or some broken crockery or small rocks over the bottom for drainage. Fill with potting soil made for succulents or mix 1/2 regular potting mix and 1/2 sand. Fill container halfway full. Place plants in soil. I try to have one tall, one medium and one ground cover type succulent minimum. Fill in carefully around plants. Water gently to settle in roots and soil. Add decorations such as colorful stones, shells or a figurine if you wish. Place in filtered sunlight. Enjoy