The Meaning Behind Succulents
The symbolism behind the succulent plants is that they represent enduring and timeless love due to their ability to survive even in difficult, harsh conditions. Succulents can be linked to love and relationships because they can survive for a long time. Cacti were used to represent people who were waiting for loved ones to return in ancient times. Even though their physical bodies are long gone, they are still standing thanks to the strength of their strong love.
Types of Succulents
Like any other plant, there are many different varieties of succulents; including both indoor and outdoor varieties. Some common indoor varieties include Aloe Vera, Snake Plants, Burro’s Tail, Pincushion Cactus, String of Pearls, Christmas Cactus, Moon Cactus, Ghost Plant, and many more. Some succulents can be grown outdoors, even during South Dakota winters, including varieties such as Stonecrop, Sedum, Ice Plant, Bitteroot, and Hen and Chicks.
Taking Care of Succulents
Getting enough sunlight
Depending on the type, succulents need at least six hours of sunlight per day because they love light. However, succulents that have just been planted can burn in direct sunlight, so you may need to gradually expose them to sun or use a sheer window drape to keep blunt sunlight from them.
Change angle of the succulents regularly
Succulents love sunlight, but if yours spends every day in the same spot, it's likely that only one side is getting enough light. We recommend frequently rotating the plant. Rotating succulents will help them stand up straight because they will lean toward the sun. Leaning may also indicate that they require more sunlight.
Watering according to season
Succulents, like us, need more energy during the growth phase. The plants consume much more water in the spring and summer than they do in the fall and winter. When the top of the soil is dry, grab the watering can. Succulents can die from overwatering, so let the soil dry between waterings.
Be mindful with how much you are watering, because if you overwater your succulent not only could it die, overwatering can attract those little annoying bugs called gnats. Gnats are attracted to succulents in soil that is too wet and don’t have proper drainage.
Jolly Lane Greenhouse at 2962 Jolly Ln in Rapid City has pre-potted succulent gardens or everything you need to create your own, including helpful advice to get started!