How to Find Your Green Thumb

Succulents are the perfect introduction for folks taking their first steps into the wonderful realm of plants and gardens. Succulents are low-maintenance, come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors, and can brighten up indoor and outdoor spaces.

These hardy plants originate from hot and dry climates and have adapted by learning to store water. Succulents need water, but can go through long periods without it. Believe it or not, most succulents die due to being over-watered. If a succulent sits in water for too long, their roots will rot, which will cause your plant to die.

With indoor succulents, watering once every two to three weeks is ideal. Your outdoor succulents will do well with water once a week in the summer and every two weeks in the winter. Water thoroughly and allow the soil to dry before you water again. Remember – over watering will kill your plant!

Succulents and cactus plants need well-draining soil. Regular potting soil is too moist. You can buy special succulent and cactus soil at most nurseries or make your own by mixing regular potting soil, perlite, and sand. There are many recipes for DIY soil on the internet. When planting in a container that does not have a hole for drainage, be sure to line the bottom with a layer of rocks to keep the roots of the plant from sitting in stagnant water.

In addition to the right amount of water, indoor succulents also need very bright light or filtered sun, 3-6 hours a day. Your outdoor succulents need partial shade and 3-6 hours of sunlight per day. Most varieties don’t do well with full sun bearing down on them for long periods of time. Succulents also need to be protected from frost and freezing temperatures. They are tough, but not that tough!

Get out there and give it a try. Head out to your local nursery and then check out a few Goodwill stores for unique planters and before you know it, you will have a green thumb!