Outdoor Decor Projects and Planting Advice
Essential Tips for Succulent Care
Succulents come in varied shapes and sizes and can be approachable plants for new gardeners of different ages. They need adequate sunlight, well-drained soil and careful watering. Water and feeding should be adjusted to the succulent variety and its container rather than applied on a universal schedule.
Watering succulents
Different succulent varieties have different water requirements. Allow the soil to dry completely between watering so roots are not left in persistently wet soil.
- Bottom watering: For a succulent with delicate leaves, place the pot in a bowl of water and allow the soil to absorb water from below. Keeping susceptible leaves dry can help prevent fungal disease, but it does not guarantee prevention.
- Top watering: Apply water carefully with a watering can or hosepipe. Avoid overwatering and allow the soil to dry before watering again.
If the soil around the plant has become compacted, loosen it carefully so water can pass through rather than remain stagnant in the pot.
Feeding succulents
Succulents do not require frequent fertilisation, but occasional feeding can supply nutrients.
- Liquid fertiliser: Dilute the fertiliser according to its instructions and include it in the watering cycle.
- Slow-release fertiliser pellets: Work the pellets into the top layer of soil with a hand fork so they release nutrients gradually.
Handle the plant carefully while feeding to avoid damaging sensitive leaves or roots.
Choosing pots for succulent plants
Pots with drainage holes allow excess water to escape. Succulent bowls provide width for plants to spread, planters can hold several varieties in one arrangement, and larger pots provide more growing space where the selected succulents require it.
Choose the container for the plants, arrangement and preferred appearance. Browse garden pots and planters for available shapes and sizes.
How often should you water succulents?
Water succulents only when the soil has dried out completely. Because water needs vary with pot size, temperature and sunlight, always test the soil moisture rather than sticking to a rigid calendar schedule.
What is bottom watering and why is it useful for succulents?
Bottom watering involves setting the pot in a shallow tray of water so soil absorbs moisture from beneath. This prevents water from sitting on delicate leaves, reducing the risk of fungal issues and leaf rot.
Do succulents need fertiliser?
Succulents do not require frequent feeding, but they benefit from occasional fertiliser. Use a diluted liquid feed during watering or work slow-release pellets into the topsoil.
Why do succulent pots need drainage holes?
Drainage holes allow excess water to drain away immediately. Without drainage, water pools at the bottom of the pot, causing root rot and plant loss.
What type of pot is best for arranging multiple succulents?
Broad, shallow succulent bowls and grouped planters provide the wide surface area needed to arrange multiple varieties together with room to spread.