HOW NOT TO KILL YOUR SUCCULENT
RATING
Won’t let you down, so don't let them drown.
NAME CHECK
Succulents literally ‘suck’ up water and store it. Look for fat juicy leaves and stems that look like they could burst if you squished them.
OUR TOP FIVE SUCCULENTS
– Burro’s tail (Sedum morganianum)
– Jade plant (Crassula ovata)
– Agave (Agave)
– Houseleek (Sempervivum)
– String of pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
THE DEETS
Yes, they look cute when they are small, but believe me, these guys can grow up to be ugly. Personally, I love it, but I always say to my clients, a succulent is for life not for Christmas. Still interested? Read on.
BACK TO THE ROOTS
Succulents have evolved in dry areas of the world so they love free-draining soil, sunshine and fresh air. Sounds familiar? No, not really! Our wet and windy climate is just too damp for these guys. But they are surprisingly low maintenance. For the best chance of survival, keep on a sunny windowsill – there is no compromise – just be careful it’s not getting scorched by direct sunlight through the glass. They can withstand long periods of drought by storing moisture in their leaves, stems and roots (which also helps them resist the desert heat), so don’t worry if you forget to water them. Just don’t make it a habit.
HOW NOT TO KILL YOUR SUCCULENTS
There will always be a leaf that is struggling – just snip it off and let the others flourish. But if the leaves fall off with a slight bump, watch the watering! Remember, they store water in their leaves, so if they are drinking too much,
they will get too heavy and fall off. Over watering will also create soft black spots on the leaves or stem. If you start to notice the upper leaves are wrinkling (like they’ve been in the bath too long) or get dry and crispy, these guys need a good drink.
STYLING WITH SUCCULENTS
Succulents look best in groups like one big happy desert family, either in separate pots or in a large round bowl. Play with different shapes and textures, mixing spiky with fleshy!