For use in landscaping outdoors:
In warm climates they can be planted in the ground or outdoors in pots year round. Try arranging the potted succulents in a triangle with the tall plants in back and little ones in front (picture on the left). This shows off each plants unique form and texture. This arrangement is dynamic when seen from a distance. I love the southwestern pot used in the landscaping amongst the succulents its visually catching (picture on the lower right)
I particularly love this form of exterior landscaping. The succulents are uniquely arranged in this large concrete pot. I love the plants that they used flowing over the sides with the other succulents. This application is very well balanced with its use of different colored succulents; such as the dark purple mixed with the green. They also used a variety of succulent species which adds interest as well (pictured on the left). Vignettes as shown in the picture can be scattered throughout a garden, adding interest at every turn (pictured on top right). Try planting succulents in a hanging basket (pictured on lower right). There is nothing more welcoming than having a hanging basket by a front door. It's just inviting. Incorporate plants that overflow off the pot as shown. It's simply a captivating look.
Incorporating them in your outdoor living space:
Two large potted succulent plants are shown here. This arrangement is symmetrical and well balanced portraying a neat, clean, modern look.
Try potting succulents in a long rectangular container and use as a outdoor table arrangement. It will last and look great all year long.
Use for interior decoration:
This application was shown in this month's Pottery Barn magazine. I just loved the look so much that I dog tailed the page and wanted to re-create it myself. Most of us have seen or have these fabulous hurricane vases. They are the epitome of multipurpose because they can be filled or used for a variety of purposes. They can be filled with seasonal objects for decoration, arrange it with other hurricane vases of varying shapes and sizes, or used as a candle holder. The sky is truly the limit with these. So, if you don't already have a hurricane vase, don't wait visit potterybarn.com now!
This is a picture of a table arrangement I had taken at, Terranea Resort back in my hometown, using succulents. They had it placed in the entry and I just thought it was so unique. I love how they used sand and driftwood pieces. It's interesting how they planted the succulents in the sand. I just love the look. Give it a try, I know I want to.
TIP: If you decide to use them indoors, the best place for them would be by a sunny window or greenhouse, potted in a fast-draining potting mix.
TIP: Watering and fertilizing should be kept to a minimum. Let the soil dry between waterings.
TIP: Keep them clean. They tend to collect debris. Just clean them with a paintbrush or vacuum with a crevice attachment.
TIP: Most succulents are pest and disease-free, but if they get bugs wipe them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Use Succulents as the inspiration and theme of a wedding:
This wedding was featured in an issue of Everyday With Rachel Ray. This wedding happened to take place in the backyard of the bride's parents home; in my hometown of Palos Verdes, California (what a small world!). The bride had used home-grown succulents in all elements of the wedding. Not only was this look unique but it was cost efficient.
The cake was adorned with small succulent plants, tying the whole outdoor wedding theme together. The boutonnieres even incorporated the succulents (pictured on the right).
The bride and groom placed home-grown succulents in shallow, wide clear bowls filled with soil for their table arrangements. Recreate this yourself, you may already have a similiar bowl that you could use.
Use Succulents as the theme and centerpiece at your next event:
As we approach fall, a succulent theme for your next event is very appropriate. I love how the succulents were the focal and inspiration for this table setting. The green and brown theme is very unique. I love the green water goblets and brown glass tumbler combination. The entire setting is pulled together with the entwining vine tablecloth which sets off the theme very nicely. The square plates used along with the succulent centerpiece definitely creates a new modern approach to a table setting.
Use Succulents as party favors:
These plants make great party favors. This DIY project is quick and simple. There is no green thumb required since these plants require minimal maintenance. First, buy small individual pots. You can find these at any nursery or arts and crafts store. Find the kind of pot that you like and simply plant the individual succulents with soil in each pot and adorn with a ribbon, or a tag with a message. These make great favors for: showers, luncheons, house warming gifts etc...
In fact, this evening I will be taking over one of these "Succulent, Succulents" over to some friends who just moved into a new house as a little house warming gift.
