Succulents are a fantastic group of plants – for many good reasons. They come in a huge range of looks, shapes, colors, etc. It is mind-boggling how varied the succulent family is. You can forget to water them and, while you may not want to leave them alone all summer, for the most part, they will be okay. I get so excited about succulents that when I get to check in our new succulent plants, it is like Christmas in March.
If I remember correctly, we started growing succulents at Sargent’s in 2012. I do remember doing a lot of research on watering and soil requirements before the season started. To be honest, before we started growing them, I didn’t realize there was much more to succulents than your grandmother’s jade plant and cacti.
We now make our own succulent soil on-site. It works so well for the succulents that we have started using the same mix for our sempervivum (hens and chicks) and certain sedums in perennials that prefer very, very, well-drained soil.
Of the crassulas we grow, my favorites are ‘Gollum’ and rupestris.
Do you see how ‘Gollum’ got it’s name?
The shape of the echeverias remind me of hens and chicks. Unlike the hens and chicks which stay low to the ground, echeverias will become a tall stem with the rosette at the top of the stem. At that point, you can cut them off and replant them.
Of the varieties we have this year, I think my favorite echeveria is ‘Chroma’. The color is unique and the leaves have such a pretty sheen to them.
Let us not forget about the kalanchoe and the senico familys.
Of course, you knew sedums were considered succulent plants. But did you know that there are sedums that you can grow in your house?
Burro’s Tail is a type of sedum. It isn’t hardy in the garden but it is super cool in a hanging pot or as a spiller in a combo container.
Speaking of combos, this year I got to put together our own succulent combo containers. I made each one different!
Isn’t that pot neat? They will look even better once the plants fill in and the trailers start to spill over the sides.
If you would like to learn more about succulents, Sargent’s on 2nd is having a class this Saturday, April 22nd at 1:30 pm. Call 507.289.6068 or click to register.
Written by Cathy Maxson
Cathy Maxson is Sargent's Gardens Perennial Growing manager. In addition to making sure Sargent's grown plants thrive, she enjoys growing in her own garden, canning fruits and vegetables, traveling, and walking her dogs.
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