S O U T H E A S T T E X A S G A R D E N I N G
SUCCULENTS AND CACTI
One of the most fascinating and interesting groups of plants are the cacti and succulents. With global warming upon us and increasing concern about water smart gardening, these plants become more a attractive choice for your garden . This site couldn't even begin to touch the tip of the iceberg in relaying information on this topic but we can introduce you to this class of plants and the idea of using them effectively in your garden landscape. We encourage you to use the internet to find much more specific information on this subject for the particular plants you are interested in. Better yet, try a succulent garden for that full sun, hot, dry location in your yard. See some examples below.
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Below is a summary of cultural requirements for some of the most popular small succulent types.
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Senecio: It is necessary to keep Senecios fairly dry during the winter season or they will rot. They take moderate watering during warm growing periods with very porous, well drained soil mix. Don't over water as much water is stored in their stems. |
Two of the most popular succulents are the "Orchid Cactus" or Epiphyllum and the flowering Christmas Cactus. Cultural information for them follows:
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The information above comes from a booklet "Succulents and Cactus, Their Care and Culture" - author and source unknown.
GENERAL TIP FOR GROWING CACTI AND SUCCULENTS: THESE PLANTS DON'T NEED SUPPLEMENTAL FERTILIZING AND DOING SO COULD KILL THEM. They store water and minerals as an adaptation to dryness and heat therefore supplemental feeding creates toxic levels of nutrients to build up.
For information about large succulent plants, we recommend the following book
"Agaves, Yuccas, and Related Plants" by Mary and Gary Irish, Timber Press, 2002
