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This document printed from the University of Illinois Extension Gardening Feature at http://www.extension.uiuc.edu/jackson/
Succulents
July 25, 2007

Ed Billingsley
County Extension Director, Jackson County and Interim County Extension Director, Williamson County
Jackson County Unit
402 Ava Rd
Murphysboro, IL 62966
Phone: 618-687-1727
FAX: 618-687-1612
edb@uiuc.edu


Succulent plants are known for their water-holding ability to thrive in arid regions. Yes, these plants like warm, dry, sandy soil conditions with an occasional soaking. The great thing about these plants is that they are easily grown in a sunny window. Choose a potting soil for succulents which will have a blend of perlite, potting soil and sand.

A dish garden is a great choice for displaying these plants. Arrange them with taller ones in the back and other heights randomly placed within the diameter of the dish. You should also include a couple of your favorite rocks. These plants are able to store moisture in their leaves, stems, or roots to survive in their natural environment. Succulents should be watered well, but never let them stand in water. Be careful not to over-water your succulent garden. Do allow it to dry out between watering. During the summer when temperatures are high, check your garden weekly. As the fall and winter seasons approach, water just enough to keep the plants maintained every couple of weeks.

A good rule of thumb for you to remember is succulents, like cacti with spines, will thrive in sunlight and most smooth succulents can tolerate some shade.

Some succulents worth mentioning include Aloe Vera whose leaves contain a gel that soothes burns and insect bites. Burro's Tail a silvery trailing plant that looks gorgeous in a hanging pot. Be careful not to dislodge the small leaves of this plant while handling it or the tail will look hairless. Mammillaria are easily grown cacti that looks great in decorative small containers. Jade is a succulent plant that resembles a small tree with hearty leaves. Finally, Agave is a slow growing succulent displaying in a spreading rosette.

So find your favorite display dish and begin your succulent garden. Oh! Succulents reproduce very easily, so borrow some leaves or stems from a friend and begin your garden today. The reward will be an easily maintained garden to brighten a sunny location within the home.
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