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succulentart.com.au

Potting Succulents into Containers without Drainage

4702 Views 563 Liked Posted on: January 23rd 2019
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The Charcoal Method

Generally speaking, Succulents require a free draining pot to thrive at its peak. They mostly don't like sitting in water for long periods of time, and when they do, that's when rot can set in. However, there are times where drilling a hole in your container is next to impossible, and that's where The Charcoal Method comes in. The Charcoal Method is fantastic for creating succulent displays with containers that do not have drainage holes. It uses both charcoal and sphagnum moss, which are available at selected Succulent ART retailers. Containers potted with the Charcoal Method will last for years to come, provided you take a little care to not over water them.

Plant Selection

Most succulents species will work using this method. The key is to keep the water level below a certain point, so the roots don't rot. A clear vessel or container is ideal as you can keep an eye on the water level, but not essential. As long as plants aren't over-watered, they should be content for quite some time. I have seen many varieties kept this way, and even some cacti!

Step by Step Guide

Step 1
Choose a container that does not have any drainage holes. Be creative! Your container can be just about anything - pottery, tins, cups and old toys - scrounge around your house or yard to see what objects you can find!
Step 2
Place a layer of charcoal in the bottom of the container. This helps keep the water clean and clear.
Step 3
Apply a layer of sphagnum moss over the charcoal. This prevents the cacti and succulent potting mix from falling in and around the charcoal pieces
Step 4
Using a good quality cacti and succulent potting mix, plant your succulents on top of the sphagnum moss in the container.
Step 5
Apply a controlled release fertiliser as directed.
Step 6
Cover any exposed areas of soil with a topping such as pebbles or gravel. Water in your succulents, being careful to ensure that the water level does not go above the level of the charcoal.

Care & Maintenance

Water
Water sparingly, and try to keep the water level to no higher than the level of the charcoal. Through capillary action, the potting mix above will suck up water up and keep the roots damp, but not wet.
Aspect
Containers planted using this method should only be placed indoors or outdoors in an undercover area. Position your succulents in an area where it can receive adequate light, such as next to a window.
Fertiliser
Use a controlled release fertiliser once a year. This will give your succulents adequate nutrition to help keep them healthy. Apply as directed.
Maintenance
Occasional pruning and the removal of dead leaves will keep the succulents in good health.
Posted in: Succulent Projects, Beginner's Guide
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