Contrasting colors, unique growth patterns, and minimal maintenance have made succulents a popular choice for homeowners looking to add a little something different to their landscapes.
Our region is an ideal growing area for succulents and consider these succulents below if you're looking to turn a dull area into a carpet of unique color.
Succulent Requirements
Water
While all succulents have minimal, and we mean minimal water requirements, they are still like every other living thing on this Earth and will require water throughout the year. When it comes to watering, it is important to deep water to keep the soil moist but never soggy. Succulents do not like that. Also, allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. The more established your succulents become, the less water they will require.
Soil
Well-drained soil is a must for all succulents. Like we mentioned in the water requirements above, succulents like the soil to be moist, but never soggy. Standing water is not ideal for succulents and can possibly kill your succulent.
Light
Succulents absolutely love the sun and need the sun to grow. However, because our region is quite big some areas can experience very hot summers. Now this doesn’t mean you cannot landscape with succulents. If just means that you need to provide some protection from the sun with afternoon shade.
The color blue is quite rare when it comes to color on our landscape. This is why the Blue Fingers, also known as Blue Chalk Sticks, are becoming a popular choice for homeowners in our region. The Blue Fingers is a slow growing succulent, but in time it can form a “carpet” look if you’re looking to block out part of your landscape. The leaves are pencil thin and they grow upwards creating a jagged-like look.
This is one of the most unique succulents we offer at Moon Valley Nurseries. The color and the structure of this specimen looks as if the coral reef has been transplanted to your landscapes. Stick of Fire grow from the trunk of the succulent and protrude out in many directions. They maintain their green and orange color throughout the year and the tips turn a fiery red in the winter. It is really a sight to see. They can grow to the size of a medium shrub and can be planted in containers as well.
Echeveria is a genus of about 100 species of succulents. These drought-tolerant perennials typically grow in clusters and their colors can range from green, purple, pink, red, and orange. Even though there are 100 species, they all have a similar rosette growth pattern. Fantastic options to plant in the yard and in containers with other plants. They also look fantastic as table Center pieces.
While the majority of succulents tend to stay close to the ground, the Aeonium ‘Purple Queen’ is one that will grow 3-4 feet tall if you’re looking to add a little something different. This beautiful plant has large purple leaves with a light green and tight rosette center. The purple color will become darker with age, giving it an appealing two-tone color.
If all these colors are a tad too much and if you’re looking for something more traditional in color, consider the Elephant’s Food. This sprawling succulent is a wonderful option for any landscape with its beautiful red-brown stems and glossy green leaves. It can be planted in the grown or in containers. For added effect, plant in a hanging basket. They can be easily pruned and require minimal water.
Be sure to talk to any of the nursery pros at Moon Valley Nurseries about a free landscape design with succulents. We have a solution for every landscape and our pros are experts at helping all of our customers reach their landscape goals. Map a Moon Valley Nursery location near you today.