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Succulents exploded in popularity in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why. They have an out-of-this-world charm, plus they’re affordable, easy to care for, and can survive just about anywhere. If you’re feeling crafty or creative, they’re a super fun medium to turn into a DIY project! Here are a few cute ideas, tips, and tricks to get you started.
If you want something dramatic to hang from your ceiling or even a pergola in your backyard, look no further than a hanging succulent topiary. All you need is a moss ball, a variety of succulent cuttings, and some rooting hormone. Start by submerging your moss ball in water and clip enough succulent cuttings to cover the entire surface area of the moss ball. Then, poke holes throughout the moss ball to make it easier to secure the succulent cuttings. Dip your cuttings in the rooting hormone, and start placing them in the holes you created, then select a sturdy rope or wire so that you can hang your new DIY topiary in your desired location. You’ll want to ensure that you keep your topiary ball moist by spritzing it with fertilized water until the succulents root themselves, and then all that you need to do is submerge the ball in water whenever it gets dry.
Your planter should be as unique as you are, and inspiration can come from anywhere. You can paint terra cotta pots in geometric patterns, use an old birdcage, an old kettle, or even a piece of driftwood. If you prefer a more modern look, you might want to opt for a simple, understated concrete planter. If you love a boho vibe, maybe you group your succulents in a regular plastic container but place it in a rattan wicker basket. If you’re looking for a whimsical statement piece, you can even replace an old antique chair seat with some chicken wire, sphagnum moss, and potting soil to make a one-of-a-kind garden planter.
Some people wonder if it’s ok to ‘crowd’ succulents, and it is! You can plant succulents quite close together, and they will continue to grow just fine, which is why we can cover every inch of the hanging topiary DIY suggestion above!
If you are planting your succulents in a pot, we suggest following the common ‘thriller, filler, spiller’ container planting method in garden planters; this will add height and interest to your succulent planter. Your ‘thriller’ will be a taller succulent like Sansevieria or Aloe. Your ‘filler’ will be something of medium height like an Echeveria or Haworthia, and your ‘spiller’ plants (which will hang over the edge) might include String of Pearls, Burro’s Tail, or a Rope Hoya.
Succulents are much-loved for many reasons, one of which is that caring for them is very straightforward. Generally, we recommend watering them about once a week in the summer months and twice a month in the winter and fall. You want to keep the soil slightly moist but not overwatered or totally dry. Since we get pretty cold winters here in Fayettville, bring your succulent planter indoors for the fall and winter if you want them to survive the season! After all, they are desert plants, so they are not a huge fan of extreme cold temperatures. They tend to enjoy full to part-sun, and rotating your planter every so often will help the plants stand straight since they like to lean into the sun. Playing with succulents is a wonderful way to get creative while also satisfying your green thumb! If you are on the hunt for succulents for sale in Fayetteville, stop by Westwood Gardens anytime—we always have plenty of gorgeous varieties in stock!
