How to Plant a Succulent: A Simple Guide for Beginners

Succulents are the perfect plant for just about anyone—whether you’re a seasoned gardener or someone who can barely keep a cactus alive (no judgment!). These hardy little plants are beautiful, low-maintenance, and come in all sorts of colors and shapes. If you’re ready to add some charm to your space, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plant a succulent and keep it thriving.

What You’ll Need:

• A healthy succulent

• A pot with drainage holes

• Cactus or succulent potting soil

• Small rocks or gravel (optional but helpful)

• A spoon or small shovel

• Gloves (optional, especially for prickly types)

Step 1: Choose the Right Pot

Succulents hate soggy roots, so drainage is key. Pick a pot with holes in the bottom. Terracotta or clay pots work great because they allow moisture to evaporate more easily than plastic ones.

Step 2: Prep the Pot

Add a layer of small rocks or gravel at the bottom of the pot. This helps with drainage and keeps your succulent’s roots dry. Then, fill the rest of the pot about 3/4 full with cactus/succulent soil. Regular potting soil holds too much moisture—succulents like it dry!

Step 3: Remove the Succulent from Its Nursery Pot

Gently take the succulent out of its original container. Loosen the roots a little with your fingers, especially if they’re tightly packed. If there’s any old or overly wet soil stuck to the roots, brush it off carefully.

Step 4: Plant the Succulent

Make a small hole in the center of your pot and nestle the succulent in so it sits snugly. The base of the plant should be just above the soil line. Add more soil around the plant to secure it, and gently press down to remove air pockets.

Step 5: Don’t Water Right Away

Wait a few days before watering. This gives the roots a chance to heal and reduces the risk of rot. After that, water deeply—but only when the soil is completely dry. Think of it like this: succulents prefer a good soak followed by a long dry spell.

Bonus Tips:

• Sunlight: Most succulents love bright, indirect sunlight. A sunny windowsill is ideal.

• Don’t Overwater: It’s the most common mistake. When in doubt, wait a few more days before watering.

• Watch for Stretching: If your succulent starts to look tall and stretched out, it’s probably not getting enough light.

Final Thoughts

Planting a succulent is easy, fun, and a great way to add some greenery to your life without a ton of work. Just remember: good drainage, proper soil, and the occasional deep watering are the secrets to success.

Happy planting!