At Plant the Future, we love the miniature garden of Eden that a succulent arrangement brings. We have a carefully curated selection of succulent gardens in crystal bases, wood bowls, and ceramic containers. We believe in the practice of biophilia and designing with intention. But if purchasing one of these remarkable gifts was the first step, what comes next?
Here is our simple guide to succulent maintenance so you and your loved one can continue to receive the holistic and cosmic benefits of your purchase for years to come.
Watering Succulents
The most important question we are asked is how often to water or fertilize our plump little plants. As a side note, because it is common for succulents and cacti to be combined (as is the case in our succulent arrangements) it is also a cause for the confusion that all succulents are cacti and vice versa. This is not the case, but in this guide, our instructions will cover the needs of both.
With that in mind, while they are still growing, cacti and succulents should be watered at least once a week. Do not water more often than this. When watering, be sure to give the soil a good soaking and allow the water to run out of the ‘drainage holes’ of the pots. If there is not an excess of water running through the soil, you won’t be sure that it has been completely soaked through. During the course of the week, it prefers to suck on this like a piece of ice instead of taking consistent sips of water multiple times.
Succulents and Sunshine
There is no one answer for how much light succulents need. As with any plant, certain types have more specific needs than others. For example, succulents that have bright colors don’t do well indoors. They require some direct sun and more light than is generally available indoors while green ones are happy with indirect light indoors.
If you’re sure, then keep in mind that in general, succulents do best in bright but indirect sunlight. If you place your succulents near a window that gets light all day then your garden will remain happy. If this isn’t an option, place your succulents near the brightest window or brightest area of your home or office.
Succulent Soil
The most preferred soil for succulents to thrive in is loose, rocky soil. Sand alone can compact and not allow the plants to breathe even if the container is draining. At Plant the Future, we provide the best potting mix for cacti and succulents with our arrangements consisting of a well-draining mix of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite/pumice.
After the garden is in your care, know that the plants will benefit most from fertilizer in the spring and again in late summer that is diluted, balanced, all-purpose, and water-soluble. If you didn’t know, there is no need to fertilize succulents in winter as they become semi-dormant and therefore don’t need the nutrient boost because they are not actively growing.
Trust the Experts at Plant The Future
When we say we love our succulent and cacti gardens, it’s because we believe in their healing and magical properties to transform our everyday lives. Explore our collection of garden small and large for every setting in your home or office.
