Whether you want a drought-resistant yard or are trying your hand at an indoor house plant for the first time, succulents from your garden center are a great choice. There are many varieties and species to choose from, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for your home. Below, learn what succulents are and how to care for them. 

What Are Succulents?

Succulents are drought-resistant plants with powerful water storage tissues in their flat, fleshy leaves. This feature allows them to store water in their leaves, stems, or roots. They are naturally found in areas with long dry seasons and an arid climate, such as the Southwestern United States and Africa.

Succulents are resilient, low-maintenance, and have unique appearances that make them a fun addition to any space. There are dozens of varieties. Many are different shades of green, but they also come in reds, pinks, browns, purples, and yellows. Some succulents will even flower during the warmer months. 

What Are Popular Types of Succulents?

Cacti

Cacti make up a significant portion of the varieties of succulents. The Cactaceae family of plants are covered in prickles or hairs. They have thick green stems rather than leaves, and some of them produce colorful flowers. 

Air Plants

Tillandsia plants are commonly referred to as air plants. These plants do not have roots and do not need to be placed in soil. They can be hung on your walls or placed on top of other decorations. They pull the moisture they need out of the air, and occasionally need to be misted. 

Orchids

Orchidaceae are known for their wide flat leaves and distinctive colorful flowers. The blooms typically last about a month, and the plant will bloom once or twice a year. They are often given as housewarming gifts since they represent elegance and love. 

Aloe Vera

Aloe barbadensis Miller is an evergreen, meaning it will have the same beautiful appearance all year round. It is known for its healing abilities since the juice inside the leaves can be applied topically to relieve burn pain. It can be moderately toxic to dogs and cats, so it is best housed away from pets. 

How Can You Care for Them?

These plants are famously easy to care for. Most require a lot of sunlight, either direct or indirect. They don’t require watering often, and many only need a deep soak on occasion. Their watering needs vary slightly depending on the variety, so ask your garden center for care instructions when you pick one up. For example, air plants are not watered directly. You should gently mist them using a spray bottle once a month.

If you buy a potted plant, choose a pot that drains well so it won’t drown. Either use a pot with drainage holes or a porous terracotta pot. Most succulents need to dry out completely between waterings. Orchids require more delicate care than other types of succulents. They thrive best in moderate temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees and need indirect sunlight. An average succulent, such as an Echeveria, can be watered once every three weeks in the warmer months. When it is cold out, most succulents will only need light watering once a month. 

The professionals at Colonial Gardens will help you find the perfect succulents for your yard or home in Fairfield, CT. Their locally owned and operated garden center carries a wide variety of beautifully arranged plants and garden supplies. Learn more information on their website and call (203) 259-2722 to ask about their inventory.