Succulents - A New Natural Obsession
Believe it or not, the plant world has its own trends, too. For some months now, we’ve been seeing certain plants in many Instagram posts – succulents. They’re beautiful, varied and easy to care for… What more could you want?
What are succulents?
Succulents “are plants that have an organ or special parts that allow them to store larger quantities of water than most plants.”
Among their many special characteristics, succulents are geometrically perfect and originate from arid landscapes, which is why they have a water-storing nature that helps them survive droughts. Cacti are part of the succulent family. With that in mind, you can probably guess what kind of care these plants need.
How do you take care of succulents?
They’re the perfect plant to have if you’re forgetful but love nature. They don’t need much care; you don’t have to water them frequently and they can adapt to almost every setting. Check out these basic care tips:
- Lighting. These plants need plenty of indirect light. Too much light can dehydrate them and dry out their water reserves. It can even burn them. If you start to notice yellowing or browning leaves, your plants are receiving too much sun. Or if your plants are looking pale green, they’re begging for more sunlight.
- Water. Watering once a week is more than enough. But keep an eye on your soil; don’t water until it’s dry. Make sure the water is draining properly by placing a small saucer under your plant to eliminate any excess water.
- Fertilizer. Look for a good fertilizer. Use an ecological option if possible and apply it during winter for healthy succulents.
- Soil. Don’t forget that these plants grow in arid climates: they grow over rocks or in tree bark. With that in mind, look for the right kind of soil. Try to mix it with sand for optimal conditions and a beautiful visual effect.
- Change their pots. You might not believe it but these plants can really grow. They may need a new, bigger pot every two years to stay healthy.
Examples of the most beautiful succulents
Black Rose (Aeonium arboreum atropurpureum)
The Black Rose is named after the color of its blackish or purple petals. These plants can grow up to a meter in height and are a collection of little trunks with the flower-like leaves on top.
Donkey’s Tail (Sedum morganianum)
This succulent has light green cylindrical leaves that grow in droopy springs. They look beautiful in tall pots. The leaves are very delicate and fall off easily so be careful when moving or arranging.
Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi)
This plant blooms, and when it does make sure to be extra careful when watering. Too much or little water can make the flowers fall off.
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
People have a special appreciation for the Jade Plant as it represents wealth. The Jade Plant is also the easiest plant to take care of. Its shiny green leaves that bunch into a tree shape are incredibly decorative.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is one of the best-known succulents around. Its sharp, spiky leaves are full of sap that can give great health benefits to its users. Aloe Vera can be especially helpful for skin problems.
Mexican Snow Ball (Echeveria elegans)
These plants look similar to artichokes and are a pale blueish color. Sometimes they can bloom pink flowers that can be between 10 to 25 cm in size.
More succulents!
Multiplying your plants with cuttings:
- Gently remove one or several leaves from your cactus.
- Leave them to dry for a maximum of three days.
- Then, plant them in the ground.
- Sprinkle a little water onto the leaves and soil.
- Enjoy your plants. They’ll start to grow roots after the first month.
Succulents are beautiful and can decorate your home in endless ways: you can place them in a wooden crate, in different little pots, inside a spherical glass jar, in your garden… Once you have them, you’ll want to keep them in your home forever.