Collecting mini succulents is a joy for any gardener. These small plants not only add visual interest with their unique leaf shapes and vibrant colors but also fill in the spaces in your plant collection. Even if you have a tendency to forget to water your plants, succulents are forgiving and can withstand short periods of drought. Here are some of our favorite varieties and how to care for them.
Haworthia: The Zebra Plant
The Haworthia, also known as the Zebra Plant, is perfect for those who often forget to water their plants. Originating from South Africa, this succulent has a different growing season than what we experience in North America. During the summer, when it’s dormant, reduce watering. In the winter, when it’s actively growing, resume regular watering. Like other succulents, it’s important to keep the leaves dry and allow the soil to completely dry out before watering again. The best part is that these little plants grow slowly, so they’ll stay cute for a long time!
Echeveria: Adorable and Low-Maintenance
Echeveria succulents are simply adorable, with rosette leaves that add a touch of happiness to any space. When mature, they reach a height of only about three inches, making them perfect for indoor gardens. Plus, they are pet-safe! In the spring, you’ll be delighted by the little pink and yellow flowers that peek up through the blue-green leaves. These plants require minimal care and are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Crassula: The Easygoing Succulent
Crassula is a broad genus of succulent plants with around 350 species, some of which are considered miniature. These plants grow slowly and steadily, making them perfect for gardeners who don’t want to stress about plant care. They can be grown indoors year-round and are easy to propagate. Crassula succulents can handle a little neglect as long as they’re in the right temperature conditions. They are an excellent choice for beginners or anyone looking for low-maintenance plants.
Jade: A Lovely Perennial
Dwarf jade is a succulent perennial with brown stems and green leaves. It’s a charming little houseplant that can be easily shaped into a bonsai tree if desired. Dwarf jade also does well in hanging baskets or trailing across a surface. These plants grow very slowly, meaning they’ll stay small for a long time. They store water in their trunks, allowing them to withstand infrequent watering. In fact, they prefer to be underwatered. Overwatering and frost are the only major threats to this resilient succulent.
How to Care for Mini Succulents
Caring for these adorable succulents is easy once you understand the basics of succulent care. Many succulents originate from South Africa and thrive in dry, sunny conditions. Use well-draining soil with a blend of sand and rocks for optimal growth. Succulent-specific soil is ideal for providing the best possible growing conditions.
One common mistake is overwatering. To avoid this, soak the plant and let it drain completely before allowing the soil to dry out before the next watering. It’s better to underwater than to overwater, as succulents are built to withstand drought.
While succulents need plenty of indirect light, too much direct sunlight can burn their leaves. Keep an eye on your plant’s leaves and move it out of the sun if you notice any dark spots.
When pruning your plants, wait until the soil is dry and has absorbed all available water. Use a sterile, sharp knife to remove any dead or dying stems and leaves. This will allow the plant to focus on new growth instead of wasting energy on dying parts.
If you’re looking to add mini succulents to your collection, visit us at Primex Garden Center. We have a wide variety of these beautiful plants that will complement any gardener’s collection. Come and discover the joy of mini succulents for yourself!
