Cactus and Succulents in Plain Wooden Boxes

A PLAIN WOODEN BOX with one or two carefully placed rocks can create display for succulents. drainage holes put in a bed of small stones to provide a place for water to go, and then add some charcoal granules on top of the stones to keep the soil sweet. Over the stones place a thin layer of moss so soil will not sift down into the drainage bed. Set the potted plants in the container and shift them around until you decide exactly where you want them. Your design work will be easier if you start with a dominating plant an interestingly-formed cactus for example and work around it with other plants. Use the textures, forms, and colors of plants to create a living picture. Put in soil to one-half inch of the rim of the dish and set plants in place. Do not water immediately; wait a few days and then give scanty moisture for a few weeks. Watering: when and how much, is the secret to keeping the dish garden handsome. Soil that looks dry on the surface may be soggy underneath. Dig down with a spoon handle or your finger to be sure that water is really needed. Always apply moisture with great care; moisten the soil, never flood it. A bright location where there is some daily sun will provide the best indoor environment for your dish garden.