Midsummer is an ideal time to plant a succulent and cacti garden, even in colder climates. A sunny location and well-drained soil are the two key requirements.
Prickly pear cactus, various sedums and hens and chicks are good choices for gardens in Zone 5 and warmer. For variety, a few perennials and ornamental grasses add color and visual interest.
Most cacti and succulents prefer as much sun as possible but can adapt to a somewhat lower light intensity. When grouping different plants, take into account their various watering needs and water accordingly. These plants grow better in sandy soil, so be aware of the condition of the soil in your bed.
Once the bed is prepared, loosen the top layer of soil with a rake. You can add limestone slabs to create a border and add some height in the bed. Remove soil where the slabs will be placed and then fill it back to ground level with crushed rock. Place soil around and between the rocks. Use a soil mixture that is equal parts topsoil, coarse sand and peat moss to provide better drainage.
When the rocks are in place, it's time to add the plants. Take some time to lay them out first to see how they'll look in the space. The prickly pear cactus has a shallow root system, so don't plant it very deep. The lower growing succulents look good trailing along rocks, edges and in front of the taller plants in the bed. Add the perennials as fillers to lend contrast and color to the succulent and cacti garden.
Maintaining this garden is fairly simple. Give the new plants a good soaking and then let the soil dry out before watering again. These plants rarely need fertilizing. Watch for succulents that get leggy or creep into areas where you don't want them. Prune back after they bloom.
Remember that some succulents and cacti may shrivel a bit in the winter. This is a survival mechanism that keeps the water in their stems and pads from freezing. They will perk up again in the spring.
)
)
