Master Gardener: Succulents: A successful pleasure

Published 7:33 pm Monday, March 15, 2021

A brown thumb can easily become a green thumb when you grow succulents. They provide terrific texture and are extremely easy to grow. Growing succulents in a container can be perfect for the beginning gardener. By following these easy tips, you will find success with these unique plants.

After you have selected about six different succulents, you will need to choose a pot with good drainage. Use lightweight potting soil or a mix made for cacti. Succulents are slow growers and do not mind being crowded. These heat lovers need six hours or more a day of sun. They also do well in part shade. Water them thoroughly once a week if outside, and let the soil dry out between watering. Succulents can go without moisture for long periods of time. They do not die rapidly if they run out of water, but it is better to water them too little than too much. Use a granular slow-release fertilizer in the spring and avoid overfeeding them. If you choose a tender species you will need to bring it indoors and place in a sunny window. Succulents do not mind dry household air.

By following these tips you are on your way to becoming a successful gardener with your succulents. One thing all succulents have in common is they are show-stoppers, whether in a container or in the garden. For sure, they will grow on you.

The Smith County Master Gardener program is a volunteer organization in connection with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.