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The answer to the question, “Are succulents perennials?” is that they be either annuals or perennials. It depends on the specific variety and the climate in which they are grown.
Many succulents are perennials in warm climates, like Sempervivum, Sedum, and Agave, surviving year-round with proper care.
In colder climates, succulents such as Aloe Vera and Echeveria act as annuals, as they cannot survive freezing temperatures.
Keep reading to learn more about different succulents, whether they should be grown inside or outdoors, and how to create your own succulent terrarium.
What Are Succulents?
Succulents are a diverse group of plants known for their thick, fleshy leaves or stems that store water.
They’re often admired for their vibrant colors, unique shapes, and ability to thrive with minimal care.
Whether you’re considering adding them to your garden or growing them as houseplants, understanding their growth habits and whether they can be grown outside is key to their successful cultivation.
These resilient plants are well-suited to arid climates, which is why they often thrive in regions with minimal moisture. Succulent plants have adapted to store water in their tissues, allowing them to survive extended periods without much water.
This ability to store moisture in dry soil is one of the key characteristics that makes succulents such a popular choice for garden beds, containers, and even indoor spaces.
Most Common Succulents
Jade Plant
The jade plant (Crassula ovata) is one of the most well-known succulent varieties, often seen as a popular houseplant due to its attractive green leaves and low maintenance needs.
It is native to South Africa and enjoys bright light and full sun. Jade plants grow slowly but can reach impressive sizes with proper care.
They are also known to store water in their fleshy leaves, making them drought-tolerant and great choices for gardeners in arid conditions.
Aloe Vera
Another common succulent type is aloe vera, famous for its medicinal properties and its ability to thrive in sunny windows or outdoor spaces with plenty of bright light.
Aloe vera’s fleshy leaves are full of gel that can be used to soothe skin. It is a perennial succulent plant that enjoys well-drained soil and much sun.
Aloe vera can be grown in both pots and garden beds, but it does best in warm temperatures and well-draining soil.
Sempervivum Tectorum
Sempervivum tectorum, commonly known as “hens and chicks,” is a cold-hardy succulent that is often used in rock gardens or as ground covers. These are my favorite type of succulents because they’re easy to grow.
This variety is known for its rosette-shaped leaves and the ability to produce new plants from its parent plant.
Sempervivum tectorum thrives in dry soil, and its resilience to low temperatures makes it an ideal choice for outdoor gardens in colder climates.
Which Hardiness Zones Do Succulents Thrive In?
Succulents thrive in a range of hardiness zones, depending on the type of succulent. For the majority of succulents, warmer climates with dry soil and minimal care are ideal conditions.
Cold-hardy succulents, such as sempervivum succulents, can withstand freezing temperatures and grow well in USDA zones 3-7, making them perfect for outdoor gardens in colder climates.
However, most succulents, like the jade plant and aloe vera, are better suited for warmer climates and do best in USDA zones 9-11.
For a detailed list of USDA Hardiness Zone, read this: Are Encore Azaleas Perennials? 5 No-Fail Care Tips
These succulents should be kept in outdoor spaces with well-drained soil and full sun during the growing season, typically early spring to late summer.
For gardeners in cooler regions, succulents can still be grown in containers that can be moved indoors during the cold months. When growing outdoor succulents, it’s crucial to ensure they receive good drainage and are protected from excess water, which can lead to root rot.
Many succulents, including aloe vera and jade plant, thrive in pots with drainage holes and a cactus mix for the best results.
Can Succulents Be Planted Indoors and Outdoors?
Succulents can be planted both indoors and outdoors, provided that the right conditions are met.
Indoor succulents are perfect for sunny windows where they can receive bright light and hours of light. These plants thrive in a potting mix designed for succulents, such as one with well-draining soil.
Additionally, indoor succulents like snake plant and aloe vera can improve air quality, making them a great plant for homes and offices.
Outdoor succulents, such as sempervivum tectorum and sedum, are perfect for rock gardens or garden beds in regions with warm temperatures and dry soil.
Succulents make great ground covers, adding texture and vibrant colors to outdoor spaces with minimal care. Ensure that outdoor succulents are planted in well-drained soil and have good drainage to prevent the risk of excess moisture.
How to Make a Succulent Terrarium
Many people create succulent terrariums as a way to enjoy the beauty of succulents in a small, controlled environment.
Succulent terrariums are like mini living landscapes captured inside a glass container like jars, vases, or decorative fish tanks.
If you’re into succulents (as I am) using your creativity to build a succulent terrarium is a great hobby. To help get you started, I’ve included some items you will need to get started.
Creating a succulent terrarium is a fun and easy project. Succulents make great gifts and can be used as displays in homes and offices. The minimal care required for succulents, such as infrequent watering and occasional exposure to bright light, makes them a perfect choice for these types of mini ecosystems.
Supplies You’ll Need:
- Glass container (such as a jar, vase, or fish tank)
- Pebbles or small rocks (for drainage)
- Activated charcoal (to prevent odors and mold)
- Succulent potting mix (well-draining soil)
- Succulents (your choice of varieties)
- Small trowel or spoon (for scooping soil)
- Decorative rocks, sand, or moss (optional, for decoration)
- Watering can or spray bottle (for light watering)
- Gloves (optional, to protect your hands)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Prepare Your Container
Choose a glass container that allows plenty of light to reach the plants. Make sure your container has an open top for proper air circulation. If using a closed container, be sure to monitor moisture levels carefully.
Add a Layer of Pebbles or Small Rocks
Begin by adding a layer of small pebbles or rocks at the bottom of the container. This will provide good drainage for your succulents, helping to prevent root rot.
Add Activated Charcoal
Place a thin layer of activated charcoal on top of the rocks. This will help keep the terrarium fresh and prevent any odors or mold growth.
Add Succulent Potting Mix
Next, add a layer of succulent potting mix over the charcoal. Make sure it’s deep enough to comfortably hold the roots of your succulents. Succulents need well-draining soil, so avoid using regular potting mix, which can retain too much moisture.
Plant Your Succulents
Gently remove the succulents from their pots and place them in the soil. Dig small holes with your hands or a small trowel and arrange the plants in a way that looks pleasing to you. Be careful not to overpack the terrarium; succulents need space to grow.
Add Decorative Elements (Optional)
You can add decorative rocks, sand, or moss to enhance the look of your terrarium. Use these elements sparingly to complement the plants without overcrowding the space.
Water Lightly
Succulents don’t need much water, so lightly water your terrarium with a spray bottle or a watering can. Ensure that the soil is moist but not soggy. It’s best to wait until the soil is dry before watering again.
Place in the Right Location
Succulent terrariums need bright light but should not be exposed to direct sunlight for too long, as this could overheat the plants. A sunny windowsill is usually a great spot.
Best Types of Succulents for a Terrarium:
When choosing succulents for your terrarium, it’s important to select varieties that thrive in smaller spaces and enjoy similar growing conditions. Here are some of the best succulent types for terrariums:
Sempervivum (Hens and Chicks)
Known for its rosette-shaped leaves, this succulent is great for small spaces and is low-maintenance. It forms clusters of baby plants around the parent, making it perfect for adding texture and visual interest in terrariums.
Aloe Vera
A popular choice for its fleshy leaves and easy care, Aloe Vera thrives in dry soil with good drainage. It’s not only a hardy succulent but also has healing properties, making it a practical and attractive addition to any terrarium.
Echeveria
This variety has vibrant colors and compact rosettes, making it ideal for terrariums. Echeveria succulents come in shades of purple, pink, and green, offering a beautiful and diverse appearance while being easy to care for.
Crassula (Jade Plant)
A low-growing succulent with thick, fleshy stems and leaves, Crassula requires little water and grows well in small containers. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in dry conditions.
Sedum (Stonecrop)
These succulents are available in many colors and shapes, making them a versatile choice for any terrarium. Sedum varieties are resilient and easy to grow, adding variety and texture to your mini succulent garden.
Haworthia
Known for its striking patterns, Haworthia thrives in low light and is perfect for indoor terrariums. Its small size and unique appearance make it a popular choice for indoor gardeners looking to add variety to their terrariums.
Cactus Varieties
If you want a bit more height, small cacti like Rebutia or Mammillaria can add variety. These cacti need direct sunlight and very dry soil, making them ideal for bright, sunny spaces, but be careful of their spines when handling.
Extra Tips for a Successful Succulent Terrarium
Watering
Succulents are drought-tolerant and need only occasional watering. Too much moisture can lead to root rot. Use a spray bottle to mist lightly, or water the plants only when the soil is completely dry.
Proper Drainage
Ensure your container has proper drainage if you plan to water more frequently, or use a container without a bottom drainage hole and water sparingly to avoid excess moisture.
Air Circulation
If you’re using a closed terrarium, open the lid occasionally to let air circulate and avoid excess humidity, which can lead to mold.
Replanting and Maintenance
As your succulents grow, you may need to repot or rearrange them. Regularly check for dead leaves and remove them to keep the terrarium looking fresh.
Selling Your Succulent Terarriums as a Side Hustle
Have you considered a side hustle to earn extra cash? If creating terarriums is your thing, you could easily turn that into a money maker with a few simple steps.
For ideas and an explanation on how to turn your hobby into a side hustle, read: How to Turn a Hobby Into a Side Hustle
Gardening Hobbies and More!
I’ve written a few great posts on hobbies for couples over 50. They’re something for everyone, so if you’re interested, check these out:
69 Best Mind-Stimulating Hobbies For Men Over 60
23 Ultimate Hobbies for People Over 50 to Enjoy
Conclusion
Succulent plants are a diverse group of plants that offer a wide range of succulent varieties for gardeners to enjoy.
Whether planted indoors or outdoors, they thrive in full sun, well-draining soil, and areas with minimal care. From cold-hardy succulents that withstand freezing temperatures to tropical varieties that need warm temperatures, there’s a succulent for almost every type of garden.
Understanding their unique growing needs, such as proper drainage and much sun, ensures that succulents will continue to thrive, adding their stunning shapes and vibrant colors to your outdoor or indoor spaces.
