Proper Location is Vital for Cactus and Succulents

Proper Location is Vital Succulents and cactus are tantalizing; the collector always wants more plants, until suddenly he finds himself without adequate space for them. At that moment it is easy to let enthusiasm tempt you into placing plants in less-favorable environments. Inevitably, this will lead to disappointment: These plants languish and die in dark or shaded areas. Generally, most indoor succulents and cactus need a window with sun or bright light. Rather than placing a few plants at several windows, try to put them all in one area; then it is easier to water them and keep them groomed. If you need large plants to accent a shaded corner, make provisions for artificial light in that area. If plants are to be grown outdoors, be especially careful when you select them. If you are not sure they will be hardy in your climate, don't put them in the ground; grow them in containers so they can be moved inside when frost threatens. Of course, you can experiment: A great many succulents and cactus will tolerate cool nights and temperatures slightly above freezing. Decorative Accents Inside or Out Small plants are the best choices for windows where space is limited. A conglomeration of large plants in a small area creates an untidy picture. Haworthias, rebutias, and the smaller agaves and aloes are good window subjects. Use potted plants on garden walls or ledges or any place where decoration is needed. Large tubs brimming with echeverias or a specimen agave in a distinctive container make handsome wall plants. Choose hanging species, too, like Sedum morganianum, to drape a wall with color and distinctive patterns. For spectacular ground covers, don't overlook the numerous ice plant species formerly classified as mesembryanthemums These are inexpensive, rewarding plants which cover an area quickly. When they bloom and many do abundantly it can be a blanket of bright color. Some of the hardy sedums are equally fine choices for ground covers, requiring little care. A garden of succulents and cactus in containers grouped together can be attractive and colorful with foliage and flowers. Use large aeoniums for round tubs, echerevias for shallow dishes, or perhaps a specimen agave in a pedestal urn. This is a portable garden that can be rearranged at will and taken inside in cold weather.

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