We all know that there are benefits to indoor gardening. Healthy indoor plants can purify your air, increase humidity, and generally improve health – all while looking good on your windowsill! But let’s face it, not all of us were born with green thumbs. I have a toddler and a dog, and both of them ask for food on a regular basis – guaranteeing their meals. But when it comes to plants, I Â admit I just forget to water them. I’ve assumed over the years that indoor plants are not for me.
However, in doing some research it turns out there is a family of indoor plants that are not only attractive, but also nearly indestructible.
I have found my match, and am up to the challenge.
I checked in with a friend who is a succulent gardening hobbyist and got 5 fool proof tips for getting it right. Â Read through these tips before stopping by your local gardening store or Home Depot, to make sure you get everything you need.
Drainage
Succulent gardens need to have some sort of drainage, whether your planter has a hole in the bottom to release water, or whether you plant the succulents with river rocks or stones. This prevents the roots from rotting, damaging bacteria that makes them sick. Â It also prevents annoying insects from making themselves at home in your new garden and in your apartments.
Cactus / Succulent Soil
The right soil can make the difference between success and failure. This particular soil is different from house plant soil or vegetable soil because it has more sand and grit to it.
Sunlight
Find a windowsill that can be the new home for your garden. They thrive with indirect sun during the day and shade at night.
Preventing Bugs
Top your soil with a little horticulture sand, or even sand from your local beach! The sand not only keeps unwanted creatures from imbedding themselves into your garden but also makes your garden look more serene.
Maintenance and Watering
Succulents are most beautiful when they are flowering, so enjoy them. Â In order to thrive, make sure you trim the dead or dying leaves or flowers, so that the nutrients have a chance to go back into the growth of the succulent. Â In the growing seasons (Spring/Summer) water your succulent daily, but allow the soil to dry before watering again. Â In the winter, the plant will go dormant so once a month watering is all that is needed. Â Overwatering is the biggest reason succulent gardens fail.
Happy Gardening!
