The Magic Behind Succulents

How These Native Beauties Keep Their Cool

Call us Californian – the team at Allen’s Flower Market is obsessed with succulents. These cute pops of green make for beautiful interior decoration in pots and add an earthy, local touch to bouquets and floral arrangements. Succulents are loveable because they are both adorable and sturdy. With minimal care, a succulent can grow for years and become a long-term companion in your home or on your patio or balcony.

Like cactus plants, succulents thrive in hot, dry conditions. Unlike most leafy plants, they have a thick structure and shallow roots. Instead of searching for water and nutrients deep in the soil, succulents magically store much of the water they need to survive in their shapely foliage. This is why the bodies of many succulents have such distinct shapes – from the crystalline desert rose to the spikey snake plant to the finger-like pachyphytum. 

Almost all succulent plants thrive with lots of sunlight and minimal water. If you live in a humid climate, your succulents will be happiest if you water them every two weeks or give them a nice spray with a bottle once a week. Those of us who live in California’s dry, warm climate are best off watering succulents once a week. As with any plant, rotate your succulent regularly to help it receive light from multiple angles and prevent it from growing off-kilter. While succulents generally enjoy bright light, they can be susceptible to sunburn in intense heat. Place them in locations where they receive partial sun or filtered sunlight during the hottest part of the day. Gradually acclimate them to higher levels of sunlight to prevent sun damage.

Succulents need well-draining soil to prevent soggy roots, which can lead to rot. Use a specialized succulent or cactus potting mix, or create your own by adding coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to regular potting soil. This allows excess water to drain away quickly.

In extreme heatwaves, consider providing temporary shade or protection for your succulents. Move potted succulents to a shaded area or use a shade cloth to filter the intense sunlight. Avoid placing them near hot surfaces like concrete or asphalt, which can radiate heat. Succulents can have different growth patterns during different seasons. Adjust your care routine accordingly. For example, some succulents may enter a period of dormancy or require reduced watering during the winter months. Regularly inspect your succulents for signs of stress, such as shriveled or discolored leaves. Adjust your watering and care routine accordingly to meet their specific needs.

Most succulent species naturally adapted to hot and dry conditions. Species like Aloe, Sedum, Echeveria, and Crassula are more likely to withstand high temperatures and require less frequent watering. Remember that different succulent species have varying requirements, so it’s important to research the specific needs of your succulents. You can boost your succulents’ natural ability to thrive in hot weather by providing appropriate care and attention.

Are you looking to give the gift of succulents to someone you care about? Allen’s Flower Market has a variety of planted succulents in artful pots and vases that make perfect interior accents, housewarming gifts, birthday presents, and date-night surprises. We take pride in creating arrangements that heighten the moments that matter most in your life. We are proud to deliver fresh flowers locally across Southern California and nationwide. Shop succulents.