I was first introduced to succulents a year ago. I still remember the first time I heard the word and thought, “What’s that?” So as not to appear clueless, I picked up my computer and did my research. A succulent is defined as any plant that stores water in leaves, stems, or both.
I was overwhelmed by all the things I found online about succulents. There were succulents planted in dishes for decorative centerpieces, succulent baby shower favors, succulent gardens made out of picture frames, etc.
Did you know there are classes on how to care for succulents? I even made the mistake of signing up to receive emails about succulents. Who knew they had enough information to email me more than once a week?
From the time I was first introduced to succulents, I knew I needed to incorporate them into one of my Sweet Monday themes. This month I was able to do that. The theme was spring related, and I decided to have my guests create a small succulent gift that could be given away for Easter.
I headed to my local garden center and picked up a pot with multiple succulents. This was the cheapest way to buy them at this particular store, so they ended up being less than $2 each. Then I replanted them in these cute mini tin buckets I had purchase a while back. I believe I bought them at Hobby Lobby, but I’ve seen them at Target and craft stores as well.
I had a lot of scrapbook paper so this looked like the easiest craft I could find online. I also create these tags to cut out and put on the succulents. I always love it when I have the majority of what I need for my Sweet Monday just lying around the house.
The conversation among the ladies at my Sweet Monday about succulents was interesting. My older guests, who were not familiar with the word “succulent” were able to identify each plant by name. They talked about how they reminded them of their childhood homes and grandparents’ homes where these particular plants adorned the yard and porch. I was reminded of my own mother’s terracotta pot of succulents that sat on our back porch. My younger guests talked about the ease of caring for these unique plants and the many varieties you can purchase online.
I shared with the ladies some tips for caring for their succulent, like using coarse potting soil and a well draining container. If you plan to send your guests home with a succulent they will need to repot, separate a large bag of succulent potting soil into smaller take home bags.
Another tip is to give your succulents plenty of light and just the right amount of water. These and other tips are available online.
There are so many sweet and simple things to do with succulents and so many resources available. I hope you’ll find a new and fun way to use these plants in a future Sweet Monday.
If you are not a Sweet Monday Hostess, but would like to attend a Sweet Monday social, visit our Find A Sweet Monday page to find a meeting near you.