Caring for Succulent Plants Outdoors: The Complete Guide

Succulent plants are having a major moment right now. With their sculptural shapes, stunning colors, and minimal care requirements, it’s no wonder these striking plants have become so popular for both indoor and outdoor spaces.

When grown outdoors succulents can add visual interest and unique texture to gardens, patios, and landscaping. However while succulents are generally low-maintenance, they do have some specific needs when grown outside. With the right care and conditions, succulents will thrive outdoors for years to come.

Choosing the Right Location

One of the keys to successfully growing succulents outdoors is situating them in an optimal location. When selecting a spot there are a few key factors to consider

Sunlight: Succulents prefer full sun and need about 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. When planted outdoors, look for areas that receive sun for much of the day, especially in the morning. South or west-facing spots are ideal.

Drainage: Good drainage is imperative for succulents, which are prone to rotting if left in wet soil. Choose elevated garden beds or slopes to allow for drainage. If planting in containers, use a potting mix made for cacti and succulents.

Shelter While succulents love sun, too much intense mid-day sun can scorch their leaves. Place them near walls, trees or shrubs to provide afternoon shade and shelter from harsh winds.

Hardiness Zone: When selecting succulents, pay attention to the recommended USDA Hardiness Zone, as some varieties are more cold tolerant than others. Choose plants rated for your zone.

Providing Adequate Sunlight

Once situated in the right spot, succulents require proper sunlight to thrive. As desert plants, succulents have adapted to endure long periods of sun exposure. When grown outdoors, aim to provide at least 6 hours of direct morning or afternoon sunlight daily.

Without adequate light, succulent leaves may start to stretch and etiolate, becoming fragile and pale. To prevent this, turn potted plants periodically and prune back leggy growth. For in-ground plantings, you may need to transplant misplaced plants to sunnier locales.

Too much harsh sunlight can also damage succulents. Signs of sunburn include yellow, brown or red discoloration. Adjusting placement or adding shade structures can help protect plants from intense midday light.

Watering Correctly

Finding the right watering method is key for healthy outdoor succulents. As a basic rule, water deeply, then allow the soil to fully dry out before watering again. The frequency depends on factors like climate, season, and plant variety.

In pots: Check soil moisture by poking your finger in the dirt. Water thoroughly until it runs from the drainage holes, then dump out excess water. This helps prevent soggy soil.

In ground plantings: Test moisture before watering. Apply water at soil level to encourage deep root growth. Avoid frequent, light watering which keeps roots near the surface.

Amount: When watering, soak the entire root zone then wait until soil is completely dry before repeating. The amount needed depends on climate and plant size.

Season: In warm months, outdoor succulents may need water 1-2 times per week. In winter, scale back to every 2-3 weeks.

Signs of under/overwatering: Wilting, drooping leaves indicate underwatering. Yellow leaves or root rot are signs of overwatering.

Providing the Right Soil

Succulents thrive in soil that drains rapidly. To prepare an ideal growing medium:

• Use cactus & succulent potting mix, or make your own blend.

• Mix in extra perlite or small gravel to improve drainage.

• For in-ground plantings, mix in sand or small gravel.

• Make sure any soil is well-draining and doesn’t hold moisture.

Fertilizing Outdoors

When grown in nutrient-poor soil outdoors, succulents benefit from occasional fertilizer. Look for cactus fertilizers, or a balanced, water-soluble formula. Dilute to half-strength and feed every 2-4 weeks during active growth in spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage succulent roots.

Protecting from Pests and Disease

While generally less pest-prone than other plants, succulents can fall victim to some common insects and diseases:

Mealybugs: Cottony insects that leave sticky residue on leaves. Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs.

Aphids: Green or black soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth. Knock off with jets of water or use insecticidal soap.

Fungal diseases: Overhead watering can cause mildews or root rot. Allow soil to dry between waterings and remove affected leaves/plants.

Cold damage: Freezing temps cause withering. Cover or bring containers indoors when overnight frosts are forecast.

Caring for Succulents in Winter

Cooler winter weather requires some seasonal care adjustments:

• Reduce watering frequency. Aim for every 2-3 weeks depending on temperature and rainfall.

• Stop fertilizing until spring. Fertilizer can harm plants when growth has slowed.

• Prune away dead leaves and stems to tidy growth.

• Bring container plants indoors if hard freezes are expected. Select cold-hardy varieties for in-ground plantings.

• Cover or insulate plants to protect from frost. Use cloches, cold frames, burlap, or pine branches.

• Keep soil slightly dry in winter to prevent rotting. Don’t overwater dormant plants.

With the right placement, sun, soil, water and occasional maintenance, succulents are easy to grow outdoors. Pay attention for signs of stress, and be prepared to tweak care as needed through the seasons. With a proper habitat, succulents will reward you with vivid colors, stunning forms and years of low-upkeep beauty.