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A succulent bowl is a stunning and low-maintenance way to bring greenery into your home. With various textures, colors, and shapes, a collection of succulents planted together creates a living work of art. While they are known for their resilience, caring for a succulent bowl requires some specific attention to ensure all the plants thrive together. Here’s your guide to keeping your succulent bowl healthy and vibrant.
Select a shallow bowl or planter with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom. Succulents prefer well-drained soil, and excess moisture can lead to root rot. If you’re using a bowl without drainage, add a layer of small stones or gravel at the bottom to help manage water levels.
Use a well-draining succulent or cactus soil mix. If you’re creating your own mix, combine regular potting soil with sand or perlite to enhance drainage. Proper soil is essential for preventing water retention, which succulents dislike.
Succulents in a bowl require bright, indirect light to thrive. Place the bowl near a sunny window, such as a south- or east-facing window, where it can receive 6-8 hours of light daily. Rotate the bowl regularly to ensure all plants receive even light exposure, preventing uneven growth.
Succulents are drought-tolerant, so it’s better to underwater than overwater them. Water your succulent bowl when the soil is completely dry. Use a watering can or squeeze bottle to water the soil directly, avoiding the leaves, as excess moisture on the leaves can cause rot.
During warmer months, you may need to water every 2-3 weeks; in cooler months, water less frequently. It is crucial to ensure that you do not over water your succulent bowl, pour enough water for the soil to absorb but nothing more, it is always better to ease on the side of caution and water less and adjust from there.
Succulents prefer warm temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C) and low humidity. Avoid placing the bowl in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms, or near cold drafts and air conditioning vents.
Feed your succulent bowl with a diluted succulent fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Fertilize once a month to provide essential nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing, as they are light feeders and too much fertilizer can harm them.
When creating your succulent bowl, consider the growth habits and light requirements of each plant. Place taller plants in the center or back, medium-sized ones around them, and trailing varieties near the edges for a balanced design. Ensure there’s enough space between plants to allow for growth and airflow.
Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep your succulent bowl looking tidy and healthy. If any plants become overgrown or leggy, trim them back to encourage compact growth. Pruned pieces can often be propagated into new plants.
Succulents are easy to propagate, making it simple to refresh or expand your bowl. Use leaf or stem cuttings from healthy plants, allow them to callus for a day or two, and plant them in the soil. Water sparingly until roots develop.
During winter, succulents enter dormancy and require less water and no fertilization. Adjust care routines accordingly to prevent overwatering. In summer, monitor for signs of sunburn, especially if the bowl is outdoors, and move it to a shaded spot if necessary.
While many succulents are non-toxic, some, like jade plants or aloe vera, can be harmful to pets if ingested. Research the specific types in your bowl and keep it out of reach of pets to ensure their safety.