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Patio Succulent Gardens

Looking for an easy-to-grow plant for your patio? A succulent patio planter can provide instant color without the need for a high maintenance routine.

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Succulents are known for their low maintenance requirements.  They are an excellent choice for a novice gardener, regular vacationers, or anyone that may not have significant amounts of time to tend to their landscape. And the best part? You don't have to sacrifice color and visual interest.  There are thousands of varieties available in an assortment of interesting colors, shapes, and sizes.

Watering:
Succulents can survive for long periods of time without water and are extremely forgiving even when neglected. During periods of drought, lower leaves will often fall off, the plant may appear shriveled, and change color, but when watered, plants revive.  Keep in mind, succulents are not desert plants like cacti. In general, they prefer more water, more shade and cooler temperatures. 

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Light:
In general, most succulents will thrive in a partially shaded to full sun location outdoors.  When brought indoors for the winter, your patio succulents will do best in a bright window with plenty of light.

Fertilization:
Succulents may be fertilized once or twice a year when they are actively growing, which is usually spring and fall. They need more moisture during this time.

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Maintenance:
Many succulents have a dormancy period corresponding with lower temperatures and light levels (winter). Summer heat and drought (neglect) may also force them into dormancy. Water sparingly till new growth appears. Dead leaves may be removed. If fresh leaves become detached, leave them in the pot. Many succulents will grow a new plant from a single leaf it left under the shade of the mother plant.

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Pests/Disease:
Succulents are not very prone to pest and disease issues.  White cotton lint may indicate mealy bug. Remove by swabbing with a Q-tip dipped in alcohol. Good ventilation, adequate light and careful watering will prevent most diseases in succulents.

Hardiness:
Succulents are found in nearly all hardiness zones. Tropical varieties need protection from frost, while hardy varieties often do well year-round in a container. In general, they tolerate cold temperatures best if soil is dry.

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