‘Tis the season for teacher gifts, holiday office parties, and those fun ? Secret Santa exchanges. If you’re tired of the same old gift-giving routine, I’ve got the perfect solution: potted succulents!
Succulents are the ideal plant for busy people or those who aren’t exactly plant experts. They’re easy to care for and add a touch of natural beauty to any space. Simply place them in a sunny windowsill, don’t overwater, and they’ll thrive. It’s the gift that keeps on giving, especially for those who might not have a green thumb.
Succulents are inexpensive and often on sale in the winter. On a recent visit to a local garden center Terra cotta pots were buy one get one free. I like to use plain terra cotta pots because they fit in with any decor. You can find plastic Christmas buckets to place the pot in if you want it to have a Holiday theme. It can be taken out after the holidays. Small ornaments such as gnomes can also be placed in the pot or other Christmas decor.
What You’ll Need:
- Small terra cotta pots or any pot with drainage holes
- Succulent plant
- Cactus potting mix
- Small pebbles or gravel
- Optional: Decorative moss, small figurines, signs or other embellishments
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Pot:
- Place a small layer of pebbles or gravel at the bottom of the pot for drainage. This will prevent the roots from sitting in water.
Add Potting Mix:
- Fill the pot with a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix.
Plant Your Succulent:
- Carefully remove the succulent plant from its original pot or container.
- Gently place the cutting in the prepared pot.
- Add more potting mix around the base of the plant, ensuring it’s firmly planted. Water around the base of the plant avoiding the leaves.
Decorate (Optional):
- Add a touch of personal flair by decorating the pot. You can use decorative moss, small figurines, or other embellishments. I used these signs when I taught my succulent classes. You can purchase on Amazon here
Water Wisely:
- Succulents are low-maintenance plants. Water them sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot. I water mine every 7-1o days.
Tips for Success:
- Choose the Right Succulents: Choose succulent varieties that are well-suited to indoor conditions and low-light environments.
- Drainage is Key: Ensure your pots have adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
- Sunlight: Place your succulent gardens in a bright, indirect light location.
- Patience is a Virtue: Succulents may take some time to root and establish themselves.
Download Your Succulent Care Guide Here
You can print this tip sheet and give it with the plant.
Note: If you need to make several gifts you can buy a quantity of succulents on Amazon for less than you can purchase at the nursery. I purchased these succulents for several classes I did last summer. They arrived in great shape and I have some of the left over plants potted in my house.
So, this holiday season, skip the stress and opt for a gift that everyone on your list will love: a potted succulent.
Happy Gardening
Kare n
**** I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase anything through one of the links in this post, I may receive a small commission.
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