Succulents have become some of the most popular houseplants out there, and it’s really not surprising. They’re stylish, easy to care for, and affordable. Plus, there are so many varieties that they’re also exciting to collect. What’s not to love? If you want to update the look of your Arnold home or office with the upbeat allure of succulents, take a look at this quick guide to growing succulents inside from the experts at WildFlower.
What Makes Succulents Different from Other Plants?
The main difference between succulents and other green plants are their leaves. Succulents have specialized, thick, rubbery leaves that help them store water. Thanks to this expert adaptation, succulents can thrive in harsh climates that don’t receive much rainfall.
All the Awesome Reasons to Grow Succulents Indoors
Sure, succulents are super-cute — that much is obvious. They’re also excellent for indoor air quality. Succulents help regulate humidity, remove toxins from the air, and also replenish the oxygen. In addition to all that, they’ve also been shown to help create a calm, relaxing atmosphere that improves concentration and productivity.
Favorite Varieties of Succulents
Echeveria
Echeveria are some of the most popular succulents out there. They grow in pretty starburst shapes with rows and rows of leaf segments. They’re mesmerizing to look at. Depending on the variety, they vary in texture, leaf shape, and color. Echeveria succulents are commonly potted in alone and in succulent gardens. They’re also a great choice for an unexpected accent in a floral bouquet. If you receive an echeveria in a floral arrangement, don’t throw it away with the spent flowers. Pot it, instead. It’ll sprout roots, and you’ll get to enjoy it for years to come.
Succulents – Echeveria
Echeveria Succulents
Kalanchoe
Kalanchoes are some of the most cheerful succulents you can find. They have green, paddle-shaped leaves and bloom with large clusters of delicate flowers in shades of pink, orange, red, yellow, and white. Cared for properly, kalanchoes will flower each year starting in the fall, and they won’t stop until spring.
Orange Kalanchoe
Jade
Jade plants are another popular type of succulent. With green leaves and brown stems, they resemble miniature trees. They do well potted with other succulents and can also thrive on their own. With good care, jade plants are unbelievably long-lasting. They often turn into heirlooms and are passed down through generations of family members.
Succulent – Jade Crassula
Jade Plant
How to Grow Healthy Succulents Inside
The key to growing healthy succulents inside is to try to leave them alone. They don’t need to be pruned, nor they need much water. Succulents basically thrive on neglect.
Pot succulents in a container that will drain easily with a low-nutrient potting mix formulated for cacti and succulents. Place the pot in a location where it will receive plenty of sunlight. Rotate the container periodically to encourage even growth.
Succulents don’t need much water, but they do need some water — even in a humid environment. When you water a succulent, don’t pour the water over the plant, but apply it directly to the soil, instead. Soak thorough and allow all the excess water to drain. Never let a succulent sit in standing water. This will cause it to rot and die. Wait for the soil to dry completely before watering again.
When leaves turn yellow or brown, it is a sign of distress. Usually, this happens due to over-watering, but it can also indicate extreme thirst. Check the plant’s soil and contact WildFlower for advice.
