Discover succulents

Succulents are amongst the most diverse and interesting group of plants you will find.

Not only are they amongst the easiest of plants to look after, they are also amongst the most versatile, with planting options limited only by your imagination.

Succulents store water in their leaves and are extremely well adapted to long periods without water. A large number of plant families have members that are succulent species, South Africa and Central America home to many familiar members of the succulent group such as Aloes, Agaves, Crassulas, Echeverias, Haworthias and Gasterias.

Succulents can be readily planted in the ground, needing only a free draining soil type to prosper. Whilst some are very tough and spiky (e.g. agaves, yuccas), others are quite delicate, yet they all lend themselves to planting in pots for dramatic effects and combinations.

The same rule applies, a premium free draining potting mix (never use soil in a pot) is all you need to get started on creating your own succulent garden.

Simple tips

Have fun with your succulents

Due to their toughness and the diversity of sizes, shapes and colours that come with succulents, they are perfect plant for you to think outside the square. 

Don’t over water succulents

This is a sure way to kill them quickly. In a potted environment water in summer every 2-3 weeks, drench the pot and allow to dry out. In the garden, only in the driest of circumstances will you need to water succulents who are perfectly adapted to dry conditions.

Fertilise

Occasionally apply either a weak seaweed fertiliser or slow release fertiliser in the warmer months to get your plants healthy.

Pests

Succulents can be prone to attack from mealybugs, a small white crawling insect that finds its way within the leaves and the roots. Drench your plant and soil with a systemic insecticide such as conquer or dab the individuals with white oil, for with a cotton bud for a green solution.