Create A Water wise Garden with Succulents and Cacti
Create A Water wise Garden with Succulents and Cacti
Succulents are one of the hardiest plants around. They are not only low maintenance but are quite drought resistant as well. The different shapes, sizes and colours make them a really eye catching feature in the garden. Building on their sculptural appearance you can make a potted desert garden that will brighten up any courtyard.They can be grown in clumps, as they love to have their roots crowded or they can be grown as one single plant, simple and bold. Although succulents and cacti don’t need much water they still need a little, so to stop the water being sucked out of the soil, seal the pots inside and out with pot seal. This forms a barrier between the soil and the pot, slowing down evaporation and therefore cutting your water usage to a minimum. It’s like liquid clay and really easy to use. All the instructions are on the can.
Succulents don’t like having their roots wet for too long. They like to dry out between watering and because they hold the water in their leaves they need excellent drainage. Yates Cacti and Succulent potting mix is perfect, providing great drainage for these arid loving plants.
Once you’ve done all the preparation you can arrange your plants. Taller plants look good in the middle with the smaller ones around the base or you can choose your own arrangement. Remember to think about the colour, texture and contrast when arranging plants. Once you’re happy with the layout all you have to do is plant them.
Although succulents might look soft and juicy, cacti are another story. To help get them out of the pot, wrap them in newspaper to avoid those nasty sharp spikes. Then once they’re planted give them a good watering in with some fertilizer to welcome them to their new home. For that authentic desert look use gravel mulch and spread it thickly among the plants. This will also keep their roots cool on hot days.
You'll have a low maintenance potted desert garden that looks stunning in any courtyard or balcony in no time.
For more information on Yates products pop into you’re nearest nursery or hardware store.