Unpacking – Carefully remove your plant from its packaging. Feel free to tear the bag open rather than sliding the plant out, it’s the safest way to avoid bending or damaging the leaves.

Light – Place your succulent in a bright spot with plenty of natural light. Most succulents appreciate a few hours of direct morning or late afternoon sun and will reward you with stronger growth and better colour. If kept in conditions that are too dark, they may become stretched or lose their shape. If your home gets a little gloomy in winter, a small indoor grow light can be a real help. Table arrangements should receive bright light during the day and can be moved to your preferred display area in the evenings.

Watering – Succulents are adapted to periods of rain followed by dry weather, storing water in their leaves for later use. Water thoroughly, then allow the compost to dry completely before watering again. Rather than watering on a schedule, watch your plant for signs it is ready for a drink.

Plump, firm leaves = well hydrated

Yellowing or dropping leaves = soil too wet or early signs of rot

Wrinkled or softer lower leaves = your plant is likely ready for a drink

A chopstick or wooden skewer can help check moisture deeper in the pot, as the surface often dries much faster than the compost below. Healthy succulent roots need both water and air, so a good soak followed by a drying period is far better than frequent small drinks. Water needs will vary throughout the year depending on light, temperature and airflow. During winter, many succulents grow more slowly and require less frequent watering.

Temperature – Protect your plant from extreme temperatures. Succulents can go outside in spring and summer, but if the pot has no drainage hole, keep it sheltered from rain. Bring indoors when temperatures drop below 10°C.

Repotting – Repot every 1–2 years, or sooner if the plant begins to outgrow its container. Young plants may need repotting every 6 months. Use a free-draining cactus or succulent compost with added grit or perlite. Dense arrangements may outgrow their pots more quickly, simply repot when things start to feel a little crowded.

If you ever have any concerns about your plant’s health, please get in touch, I’m always happy to help.

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