Succulents have become some of the most popular house plants because they’re low-maintenance, trendy, and affordable. Plus, with an endless number of varieties, they’re fun to collect, too. If you’re thinking about updating your Port Charlotte home or office with a few potted succulents, take a moment to read through this quick guide to growing succulents from the experts at Port Charlotte Florist.
How Succulents Differ from Other Green Plants
The primary difference between succulents and other plants are their leaves. Instead of the paper-thin leaves most plants sport, succulents grow thick, rubbery leaves and spines. These odd-looking appendages are the adaptation that allows succulents to survive in harsh climates where rainfall is scarce. These leaves, along with a succulent’s stems and roots, are experts at storing water, making them tolerant of drought.
Why Succulents Are Perfect for Growing Inside
Succulents come in an unending variety of shapes, colors, and textures, which makes them fun to look at. They also help create a calm atmosphere with a positive energy that promotes concentration and productivity. In addition, succulents are great for the indoor environment. Their roots draw air into the soil. When harmful chemicals, like VOCs, reach the roots, they transform the toxins into nutrients. In addition to cleaning up air pollutants, succulents also replenish the air by emitting oxygen.
Popular Succulent Varieties
Aeonium
Aeonium succulents bloom in starburst shapes or rosettes and feature a wide variety of colors, depending on the variation of aeonium. They range from bright green to deep red, and given enough time, a young aeonium that lies low to the ground will sprout up into a sort of funny-looking miniature succulent tree.
Aeonium Succulent
Succulents & Bamboo
Jade Plants
Jade plants are one of the most popular types of succulents. They’re commonly found in succulent gardens, but also do well potted on their own. With brown stems and pretty green leaves, they resemble small trees. Fully grown, a jade plant can grow to be about three feet tall. When properly cared for, jade plants are also surprisingly long-lasting. A jade plant can live through generations, turning into an heirloom that’s passed down through a family.
Jade Plant
Succulent Garden
Aristaloe Aristata (Lace Aloe)
This variation of an aloe succulent has beautiful leaves that are wide at the bottom and taper to a point at the top. Deep-green with white bumps in lace-like patterns, the lace aloe is fast-growing and blooms with pretty pink flowers.
How to Cultivate Healthy Indoor Succulents
The trick to keeping indoor succulents healthy is to avoid fussing with them too much. Succulents don’t need much water, and they practically thrive on neglect. Pot succulents in a container that will drain easily with low-nutrient soil that’s formulated for cacti and succulents. Place them in a location where they will receive plenty of sunlight.
Echeveria Succulents
When watering a succulent, apply the water to the soil, rather than pouring it over the plant. Soak the soil thoroughly and allow it to drain well. Never let a succulent sit in standing water. Wait until the soil has dried completely before watering again.
If succulent leaves turn yellow or brown, this is a sign of stress. Usually, succulents suffer from over-watering, but they can also wilt from extreme thirst. Check your plant’s soil and contact an expert at Port Charlotte Florist for help.
