A few years ago, I was gifted some hens and chicks (succulents which are a really neat ground cover in the right place).  The instructions were easy: water lightly and they love a sunny spot. Easy enough! False. A month later, they were looking so sad.  As the weeks went on, I knew I was doing something wrong, but by this time it was too late.  I was discouraged.  I tried again- same thing, except the succulent held on a little longer.  Fine, I can’t do succulents. 

 

Fast forward to a few months ago.  My dear friend Kate impressed me with all of the succulents at her house, and said her father was a grower of all things succulent. Ok, I’m intrigued; again. I watch her routine, and her giving them away to friends who are giddy with excitement that their succulents are flowering, and they’re all thriving.  I can do this. I can do this.

I’m feeling more confident that I can do succulents.  I head out to my local nursery and check out all of their succulents and cacti, and little tropicals for terrariums. I read the instructions on each of the plants; for the most part, they like full sun after established; water from the soil to avoid rotting, and rotate to encourage even sun coverage. 

 

Feeling a little more confident, I decided on a few succulents and plants for a terrarium. Sidenote: it is essential to use cactus and succulent potting mix as it contains perlite and sand which help ensure proper drainage.  I’m starting to think this was my problem, as so far, my little babies are thriving!