A garden area featuring various cactus and succulent plants.

Cacti and Succulents

Are you looking for a way to bring some spiky good looks to your home gardening? Then cacti and succulents are the way to do it! These desert dwellers have become increasingly popular in recent years, making them an excellent choice for adding unusual beauty and texture to any space. Whether you’re new to growing these prickly pals or just want take your habitat garden up a notch, we’ve gathered all the tips and tricks you need to know for raising healthy cactus and succulents. Use our guides down below to get started!

What’s the Best Water for Succulents?

A horizontal shot of a woman gardener watering a jade plant potted in a nursery pot sitting on a wooden table with a white enamel pitcher of water.

Part of keeping your succulent plants happy and healthy isn’t just the amount of water that you provide, but what type. Municipal water can cause mineral build-up that can ultimately harm or kill your plant. Learn what water to use to raise your succulents to keep them looking and feeling their best. Read more now.

When to Plant Succulents in the Northwest

A close up horizontal image of Dudleya edulis, aka fingertips, a succulent plant native to the Pacific Northwest, growing in pots outdoors.

Growing succulents in the soggy Pacific Northwest takes skill. One essential piece of knowledge is understanding what time of year to put these plants into the ground or your outdoor containers. Learn the best time to plant succulents in the northwest, along with a few other growing tips in this guide. Read more now.

How to Prevent Christmas Cactus Bud Drop

A close up horizontal shot of a Christmas cactus plant with both pink and white and red blooms.

Highly ornamental with bright, colorful flowers over the winter holiday season, Christmas cacti are easily cultivated. But conditions like humidity, lighting, moisture, and temperature all play important roles in producing the best floral display. Learn how to prevent Christmas cactus bud drop and enjoy gorgeous blooms.

Why Is My Christmas Cactus Dropping Leaves? 7 Causes and Solutions

A horizontal close-up of green Christmas cactus leaves with several bright pink blooms.

Are the leaves dropping off of your Christmas cactus? There are several reasons why the cladodes may fall from your plant, from watering issues to pest problems. This guide covers seven common causes of leaf drop in holiday cacti and helps you figure out what’s wrong with your plant and how to fix it. Read more now.

What Are the Different Types of Holiday Cacti?

A close up horizontal image of a large holiday cactus in bloom growing in a pot on a windowsill.

It’s confusing trying to figure out the difference between a Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving cactus. Sometimes even reputable retailers mislabel these plants because they look so similar. Learn about the different types of holiday cacti most commonly find in stores and how to tell them apart in this guide. Read more.

When and How to Fertilize Christmas Cactus

A horizontal shot of a Christmas cactus' pink flower growing indoors.

Christmas and Thanksgiving cactuses are short-day wonders adding bright, fiery flowers to our indoor decor over the dark winter months. Easily cultivated and low maintenance, a regular fertilizing schedule helps them to stay healthy and looking their best. Learn when and how to feed a Christmas cactus in this guide.

How to Grow and Care for Starfish Flower Cactus

A close up horizontal image of a single purple starfish flower surrounded by succulent foliage.

With fascinating blooms, starfish flower is one of the stars of the plant world. These succulents have a simple care routine, are fast growers, and aren’t stingy with their blooms. However, with the nickname “carrion flower,” they may not be for everyone. Learn to grow and care for starfish flower in this guide. Read more.

37 Types of Lithops Living Stone Succulents

A close up horizontal image of a number of different colorful living stone plants surrounded by small rocks.

Lithops are fascinating little succulents that need lots of bright light and little water. These mimicry plants grow in an array of colorations and patterns that may seem difficult to tell apart at first glance. Explore the wonderful world of lithops, keep reading now to learn about 37 different types of living stones.

Tips for Landscaping with Yucca Plants

A horizontal image of rows of flowering yucca plants lining a pathway in a botanical garden.

Evergreens that grow in large rosettes, yuccas thrive in hot, arid conditions and add fantastic structure, plus striking flowers, to xeriscapes, water-wise gardens, and more. Unique specimens, they’re a natural in containers, gravel gardens, and mixed beds or massed into hedges. Read on for landscaping tips for yuccas.

31 of the Best Sedum Varieties

A close up horizontal image of purple 'Mr Goodbud' sedum flowers growing in the garden, pictured on a soft focus background.

Sedum is a genus of flowering succulents, also known as stonecrop. Species and cultivars are available for USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 10. Heights vary from three-inch ground covers to 24-inch bed and border specimens, and bloom times range from summer to fall. Read on for 31 of our favorite varieties of sedum for the home landscape.

How to Grow and Care for Lithops Living Stone Plants

A close up horizontal image of lithops aka living stone plants growing outdoors on a rocky outcrop.

Ultra drought-tolerant, living stones are intriguing succulents. These fleshy plants mimic rocks to survive and thrive in tough locations. However, their surprising resilience in nature means they have special needs when grown as houseplants. Learn all about lithops and how to care for them in this guide. Read more now.

How to Grow Yucca Plants in Containers

A horizontal image of a yucca with blue-green leaves growing outside in front of a blurry background containing other plants.

Do you want to grow yucca in a pot? There are a number of advantages to growing yuccas in pots, such as greater accessibility, more placement options, and a wider variety of style choices. If you want to grow your yucca plants in containers with ease, this guide provides all the essential know-how. Read more now.

Are Yucca Plants Edible?

A close up horizontal view of a common yucca flowering with pendulous cream flowers in early summer.

Can you grow yucca plants for food? In this article, we’ll discuss topics such as yucca vs. yuca, edible parts, harvesting times, preparations, common yucca species, nutrition, and the ultimate question: should you cultivate yucca for edible use? Gain valuable insights to make informed choices on your culinary journey.

How to Grow and Care for Lace Aloe

A close up horizontal image of a lace aloe (Aristaloe aristata) growing in the garden.

An unusual indoor/outdoor succulent that’s the lone species in its genus, lace aloe forms white-flecked rosettes with lacy, soft bristles. Grow it as an evergreen in Zones 7-10, especially where water is scarce. Or, pot it up for dish gardens indoors. Its flowers attract bees, hummingbirds, and pollinators.

27 of the Best Echeveria Varieties

A close up horizontal image of a variety of different types of echeveria succulents growing in small pots.

With unique rosettes ranging in colors from icy blue to dusty plum, echeveria succulents are easy-care, frost-tender perennials that thrive in lean soil and arid conditions, making them an excellent choice for containers, xeriscape gardens, and houseplants as well. Learn about 27 of the best echeveria varieties now.

How to Transplant or Repot Aloe Vera in 3 Simple Steps

A close up horizontal image of aloe plants growing in a black plastic planter.

Are you noticing your aloe becoming too big for its current pot or space? No worries, we’ve got you covered! Discover the three simple steps to transplant or repot your aloe. Not only is it enjoyable, but you’ll also be providing aloe with a new home that will support its longevity.

How to Identify and Control 11 Cactus Pests

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Cacti are resilient desert survivors, but even they’re at risk of infestation and pest damage. Our guide walks you through a handful of significant threats, how to prevent them, and how to handle them if they’re already present. Arm yourself with this know-how, and your cacti will be much better off. Read more now.

How to Make Your Own Cactus Potting Soil

A close up horizontal image of a selection of different cacti growing in a small planter indoors.

Attractive, colorful, and unique plants, cacti are fabulous in pots and containers, and require little care or maintenance. But these desert-dwellers do need special soil to really thrive – a potting mix with a sandy, porous texture that’s well-draining. Learn how to make your own cactus potting soil in this guide.

How to Divide Aloe Plants in 5 Simple Steps

A close up horizontal image of aloe plants growing in the garden ready for division.

To ensure the longevity of your aloe plants, it’s essential to divide them as soon as they begin to encroach upon each other and the space they are growing in. Read our guide to find straightforward steps on how to complete this process successfully, and you’ll also have extra plants to share with friends and family!

How to Divide and Transplant Yucca Offshoot Pups

A close up horizontal image of yucca plants growing in the garden in full bloom.

Yuccas are beautiful flowering succulents for the home and garden. Low maintenance perennials with excellent drought tolerance, they’re forgiving of neglect. A star in any waterwise garden, they’re easy to reproduce as well. To thin out clumps or start new plants, here’s how to separate and repot yucca offshoots.

28 of the Best Yucca Varieties

A close up horizontal image of the flowers and foliage of a yucca plant pictured in bright sunshine on a blue sky background.

Happy inhabitants of the driest of soils, the resilient yucca tolerates drought, frost, and searing heat. With spiky foliage in shades of green, gray, and blue, yucca sports spikes of creamy flowers come summer. Learn about the most beautiful, floriferous, and toughest types of this native succulent for your garden.

How to Harvest Aloe Vera Leaves

A close up horizontal image of an aloe vera plant with mature leaves ready to harvest growing in the garden.

Interested in learning how to harvest healing aloe vera leaves? You’ve come to the right place. Our guide provides helpful tips to ensure you get the most out of your aloe plant. Whether you’re looking to use the gel for skincare or to make aloe vera infused smoothies, we’ll provide you with simple instructions.

How to Care for Succulents in Winter

A close up horizontal image of succulents covered in a layer of snow.

Marvelously tough and typically unfussy, succulents get a little more needy once hot summer weather subsides and winter returns. From repotting to watering to pest control and more, learn how to steward your succulents through the chillier, darker season of winter. Read more about succulent winter care in our guide.

How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia

A close up horizontal image of Euphorbia growing in the garden in full bloom.

Euphorbias are adaptable, versatile, and tolerant of conditions other plants fail in. Their acid-green foliage and colorful flowers create an attention-grabbing focal point with little need for maintenance to stay beautiful. Plus, very few pests and diseases trouble them, and deer avoid them altogether. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Autumn Joy Sedum (Stonecrop)

A close up horizontal image of the pink flowers and succulent foliage of Autumn Joy sedum growing in the fall garden, pictured in light sunshine.

‘Autumn Joy’ sedum is a fall favorite, known for its unique, plump foliage and bursts of pink color in the garden. This article explains everything about its history, how to propagate, grow, and care for it, as well as its uses in the landscape and beyond. Discover more about this hardy plant today!

When and How to Prune a Yucca Plant

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Waterwise yuccas grow as low-profile shrubs or tall trees outdoors and as houseplants indoors. They are unique for their sword-like leaves and stalks that bear clusters of cream to pink flowers. With selective pruning, you can keep your plants healthy and attractive. Read on to learn when and how to prune yucca plants.

How to Grow Echeveria Succulents

A close up top down image of echeveria succulents growing in a garden border.

Echeveria plants are unique desert natives that thrive in dry, lean conditions. The plump-leaved rosettes come in many colors from icy blue to burnished plum and feature tall spikes of colorful, bell-shaped flowers. The perfect option for waterwise gardens and xeriscapes, here’s how to grow succulent echeveria plants.

How to Grow and Care for Organ Pipe Cactus

A horizontal image of a large organ pipe cactus growing in the desert surrounded by scrubby plants pictured on a blue sky background.

Native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, organ pipe cactus can grow to be truly enormous. Strikingly architectural, it’s beautiful in all seasons, producing huge white flowers in spring and sweet fruits in summer. Given lean soil, minimal water, and lots of sunlight, you can grow this long-lived cactus too.

How to Propagate Epiphyllums from Cuttings

A close up horizontal image of the flower of a queen of the night epiphyllum pictured on a soft focus background.

Growing queen of the night from cuttings is an easy horticultural project, one that can allow indoor gardeners to cultivate a vast collection of orchid cacti. But this project is most successful when you use a few unexpected tricks. Learn more about propagating Epiphyllum oxypetalum from cuttings now. Read more.

How to Prevent and Manage Rotting in Succulents

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Succulents are drought-resistant plants unique for their ability to store water in plump leaves and roots for survival in arid climates. Sometimes, excess moisture causes the leaves to discolor, soften, and rot. Read on to learn why this may happen, what to do about it, and steps to take to avoid rotting in the future.

How to Create a Succulent Fairy Garden

A close up horizontal image of a whimsical succulent fairy garden in a wooden container.

Succulents are water-wise plants with plump leaves, fanciful shapes, and varied hues. Instead of having a collection of pots, you can use a large, shallow vessel to group your plants together in a whimsical fairy garden. Read on for idea-packed tips to create clever designs that are fun to look at and easy to care for.

How to Grow and Care for Succulents

A succulent arrangement in a round, shallow, white ceramic planter with a bamboo base, on an aqua and white diamond-patterned tray with gray and green garden gloves, a shovel with a gray and green handle, and scattered pebbles, with a brown wooden outdoor chair with a white cloth seat cushion in the background.

Want to become a succulent gardening pro? We share our top tips for planting, watering, fertilizer needs, dealing with winter weather or warm spells, pests and diseases, and more. Whether you’re planting outdoors in Zone 11 or growing a few potted plants in a sunny windowsill, read our guide now on Gardener’s Path.

How to Grow and Care for Agave in the Garden

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Agaves range in size, shape, and color, from stunning emerald and white to blue-green, and they’re sure to catch the eye. They can hold their own as a focal feature, a gorgeous addition to a succulent garden, or mixed with other drought tolerant plants. Learn how to grow and care for agaves in this guide. Read more now.

How to Grow and Care for Aloe Vera

A close up horizontal image of the succulent, spiky leaves of the aloe vera plant pictured on a soft focus background.

Have you ever wanted to grow your own aloe vera? This versatile succulent is easy to grow on a sunny windowsill in your home. With your own aloe vera plant you’ll always have first aid on hand for minor burns and bug bites. Learn everything you need to know to grow and care for aloe vera indoors in this guide.

Reasons Why Your Yucca Isn’t Blooming

A close up horizontal image of two yucca plants in full bloom with long stems of creamy white flowers.

Yuccas are handsome succulents with long, spiky leaves and fantastic, tall stalks of creamy white, bell-like flowers… That is, when they show up. Flowering is often absent or unpredictable with these hardy perennials, but a little care and attention can reliably bring on the blooms. Discover our easy fixes now.

13 of the Best Aloe Varieties for Landscaping and Containers

A close up horizontal image of aloe plants growing in the garden pictured in bright sunshine.

Aloe vera adds natural beauty to the home, offering medicinal properties as an added benefit for healing cuts and scrapes. But did you know there are many different species and cultivars of aloe? Discover 13 of the best aloe varieties to add to your houseplant collection or succulent garden in this guide. Read more now.

What Are the Different Types of Aloe?

A horizontal image of a large aloe plant growing outdoors in a succulent garden.

Small aloe plants make gorgeous, low-maintenance houseplants, while larger species are popular in water-wise gardens. Did you know that there are hundreds of species, some ideal for cultivating indoors and others suitable for landscapes? Learn about the different types of aloe, and discover which will best suit your needs.

How to Grow and Care for Mother of Millions (Chandelier Plants)

A close up horizontal image of the succulent foliage and tiny plantlets of a mother of millions (Kalanchoe delagoensis) plant.

Easy to propagate and low-maintenance, mother of millions produces baby plantlets on its leaf tips. Also known as the chandelier plant, it’s a favorite for beginners and indoor gardeners on a budget. Learn how to grow and care for these unique succulents both indoors as a houseplant or out in the landscape. Read more now.

9 Different Types of String of Hearts

A close up horizontal image of Ceropegia woodii aka string of hearts growing in small pots indoors.

String of hearts, also known as rosary vine, is a fabulous vining houseplant that needs no improvement. There are nonetheless several fascinating cultivars with different leaf shapes and colors that fans of this succulent will undoubtedly find beguiling. Discover 9 different types of string of hearts in this guide.

How to Grow and Care for Ocotillo in the Garden

A horizontal image of an ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens) growing in the Mojave desert pictured on a blue sky background.

Need a pollinator-friendly desert plant that thrives with little to no water, making it ideal for xeriscaping? Learn how to grow ocotillo! Give this unique water-wise shrub a spot with full sun and watch the hummingbirds enjoy the dazzling flowers’ nectar. These are slow growers but they’ll last for generations!

Tips for Growing Christmas Cactus Outdoors

A close up horizontal image of the bright flowers of a Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera) pictured on a soft focus background.

Popular houseplants, Christmas cactuses and other holiday varieties of Schlumbergera brighten our homes with beautiful flowers. These tropical beauties can also be grown outdoors – but their range is limited and they need mild winters to survive. Read our guide now to learn how to grow Christmas cactus outdoors.

How to Prevent and Treat Yucca Frost Damage

A close up horizontal image of large yucca plants growing in the garden pictured in light sunshine.

When yuccas are grown in a cold climate, it may be tough for these plants to make it through the winter unscathed. In our guide to caring for winter-injured yucca plants, you’ll learn how to help a frost-damaged yucca the right way, and how to prevent cold injury and frost damage in the future. Read more now.

13 of the Best Crassula Varieties to Grow at Home

A close up horizontal image of a jade plant (Crassula ovata) in full bloom with light pink and white flowers fading to soft focus in the background.

The Crassula genus includes the classic green jade plants as well as a diverse range of other succulent species and cultivars. The leaves may be fingerlike or shaped like coins, variegated, silver, or pink. With fun names like ripple jade and worm plant, our roundup showcases 13 top Crassula picks to grow at home.

How to Make Your Own Potting Soil for Succulents

A close up horizontal image of succulents growing in a terra cotta pot in a DIY homemade potting mix.

Attractive, colorful, and unique plants, cacti and succulents are fabulous in containers, and require little care or maintenance. But these shallow-rooted, fleshy plants do need special soil to really thrive – one that’s fast-draining with a sandy, porous texture. Find the best DIY succulent potting soil recipe here.

Do Aloe Plants Bloom?

A horizontal image of succulent aloe plants in full bloom against a backdrop of palm trees.

Whether you’ve noticed new developments on an aloe plant or you’re interested in knowing more before you buy one, you may be asking – do aloe plants bloom? Learn all about the flowering process of these plants, how to nurture aloe to encourage blooming, and how to care for plants during and after flowering. Read more.

How to Grow and Care for Anacampseros Succulents

A close up horizontal image of the succulent green and pink foliage of Anacampseros plants.

Compact, colorful anacampseros succulents grow as perennials in Zones 9-11, and they are easy-care container plants to overwinter indoors in colder growing areas. They grow just six inches maximum and spread to create ground cover or as filler in succulent container gardens. Learn to care for anacampseros in our guide.

How to Force Flaming Katy Kalanchoe to Flower

A close up horizontal image of bright orange flowers and buds of a flaming Katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) plant growing indoors.

You don’t have to toss florist’s kalanchoe after it’s done blooming. Our guide provides step-by-step instructions for forcing new blooms from the flaming Katy ornamental succulents. If you have a place to keep this houseplant in the dark and a little patience, it will reward you with another show of beautiful flowers.

How to Propagate Christmas Cactus from Cuttings

A close up horizontal image of a hand holding a small Christmas cactus cutting that has taken root in soil.

Christmas cactus produces cheery blooms during the winter months and it’s easy to propagate cuttings. Whether your goal is to produce new plants to give as gifts or to expand your collection with new cultivars, this propagation method will come in handy. Read more to learn how to propagate Christmas cactus cuttings.

How to Grow and Care for Crassula Succulents

A close up horizontal image of a silver jade plant growing in a terra cotta pot outdoors.

A succulent that thrives in low humidity and bright light, crassula is easy to care for as a houseplant or outdoors in Zones 11-12. Species in this genus include the common jade tree, silver dollar plants, baby’s necklace, and worm plant. Learn more about growing and caring for popular crassula varieties in our guide.

How to Grow and Care for Joshua Trees

A horizontal image of Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia) growing in the desert landscape with blue sky in the background.

Learn how to grow and cultivate Yucca brevifolia, the iconic Joshua tree. These stunning slow-growing desert dwellers thrive with little to no water. Give them fast-draining sandy soil, full sun exposure, and ample room to spread, and they’ll be happy! You’ll have a beautiful and resilient landscape for generations.

How to Grow Flaming Katy Kalanchoe

A close up horizontal image of the delicate flowers of flaming Katy (florist's kalanchoe) pictured on a dark soft focus background.

Flaming Katy is a blooming succulent you can grow indoors, or outside in Zones 10 to 12. Learn how to propagate and care for florist’s kalanchoe in our guide, whether you’re growing it as a houseplant or as an outdoor perennial in warm regions. The flowers are cheery and plants are easy to start from cuttings to share.

How to Grow and Care for String of Hearts

A close up horizontal image of a string of hearts plant spilling over the side of a pot.

With extra-long vines and heart-shaped leaves, string of hearts makes a beautiful and fast-growing houseplant. Covered with purple and dark green foliage, this succulent, also known as rosary vine, is easy and fun to propagate. Read more now to learn more about growing and caring for this Rapunzel among houseplants.

27 of the Best Xerophytes to Plant in a Water-Wise Garden

A horizontal image of a xerophytic garden with a selection of cacti and succulents.

Conserving water is more important now than ever before. Fortunately, cooperating with nature by installing xerophytic plants, which require less water, can create a gorgeous landscape or garden. In fact, we’ve cultivated a list of 27 of the best and most attractive options – which ones will you choose in your region?

What Is Xerophytic Garden Design?

A horizontal image of a pathway through a xerophytic garden with a selection of native flowers and succulent and cacti.

Nowadays, we’re all concerned about natural resources and the environment – and rightly so! But there are steps that we can take to reduce our environmental impact, like landscaping with plant species that need less water to thrive. Learn how to plan a xerophytic garden and choose the best plants for your needs.

How to Grow and Care for Kalanchoe

A close up horizontal image of colorful kalanchoe plants growing in pots.

The Kalanchoe genus includes a range of perennial succulents that are hardy in Zones 9-12, depending on the variety. Our guide explains how to grow kalanchoe outdoors in warm areas or indoors as a houseplant. And it’s easily propagated from cuttings, seeds, or plantlets produced on leaf edges. Read more now.

How to Harvest Prickly Pear (Opuntia) Fruit

A close up horizontal image of prickly pear fruits, whole and sliced in a white bowl on a marble surface.

Prickly pear cacti earned their name because of the edible, tasty, pear-shaped fruits they produce. These colorful fruits are tasty, nutritious, and easy to process! If you’ve avoided trying them because of their unfriendly-seeming spines, don’t worry – we’ll cover everything you need to know for a safe harvest.

How to Grow and Care for Donkey’s Tail Succulents

A close up horizontal image of a potted donkey's tail (Sedum morganianum) plant set on a white surface pictured on a soft focus background.

With its trailing stems and plump, bluish leaves, donkey’s tail sedum makes a striking houseplant that’s easy to care for. This cliff-dwelling succulent is the perfect choice for a raised planter or hanging basket. Plus, it is nontoxic and fun to propagate. Read more now to learn how to grow and care for donkey’s tail.

How to Identify and Manage Cactus Longhorn Beetles

A close up horizontal image of a cactus longhorn beetle munching on a plant.

Cactus longhorn beetles are prevalent in the desert climes of North America. If you grow cacti in your landscape, read on to discover which species of cacti these insect pests favor as their hosts, when they are most active, the damage they are capable of inflicting, and how to manage an infestation.

How to Save an Overwatered Christmas Cactus

A close up horizontal image of a gardener watering a Christmas cactus from a blue plastic watering can.

Christmas cactus is a low-maintenance flowering houseplant that thrives in bright, indirect sunlight with low to moderate moisture. Knowing when it is time to water and how much is needed is often challenging. Read on to discover ways to avoid overwatering and get instructions on how to rescue a soggy Christmas cactus.

11 of The Best Dragon Fruit (Pitaya) Cultivars

A close up horizontal image of dragon fruits cut in half and set on a wooden surface.

When growing dragon fruit (or pitayas) at home, you have options. Do you want to grow small sweet yellow fruits, big tangy red-fleshed ones, or something in between? Choose the best cultivars for your growing conditions – and your taste buds. Ready to learn about 11 of the best dragon fruit varieties? Read more now.

How to Grow Your Own Dragon Fruit (Pitaya)

A close up horizontal image of a large dragon fruit (pitaya) plant laden with bright pink ripe fruits.

Dragon fruit are a tasty tropical treat – and with the right techniques and know-how, you can grow your own crop of them at home. These colorful fruits are borne on the succulent stems of jungle cacti, which can produce a bountiful harvest in just a year and a half. Learn how to grow your own pitayas in this guide.

How to Identify and Control Mites on Succulents

A close up horizontal image of an aloe plant that is rotting due to infestation of mites.

Succulents are a very popular category of plants, featuring a variety of shapes and colors, and seeming to thrive on neglect. Mites like them too, and if you let them, they’ll suck on your collection with gusto. Learn everything you need to know about succulent mites and how to deal with them in this guide. Read more now.

What Are Cactus Glochid Spines?

A close up horizontal image of the top of a prickly pear plant showing the large spines and smaller glochids.

All cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti. Cacti have sharp, prominent spines that inhibit moisture loss and provide shade and protection for the fleshy stems. Many species also have clusters of smaller spines called glochids. Learn about these small yet troublesome ones so you’re not caught unawares.

How to Grow and Care for Variegated Tiger Aloe

A close up horizontal image of a tiger aloe (Gonialoe variegata) houseplant pictured on a soft focus background.

Tiger aloe is a compact succulent that offers enormous appeal. Learn how to bring it home as a houseplant where it’ll thrive on neglect while still offering beautiful color and an interesting pattern. Or, make it part of a xeriscape where it can spread and fill in a bed or planter. We’ve got the details that you need.

How to Grow and Care for Key Lime Pie Plants

A close up top down image of a key lime pie plant (Adromischus cristatus) growing in a terra cotta pot set on a white surface.

Key lime pie plants are unique succulents with gorgeous foliage and ornamental flexibility. Whether grown as a houseplant or outdoors, this specimen will truly stand out wherever you choose to put it! In our growing guide, we’ll cover propagation methods, cultivation tips, and plant health care techniques. Read more.

11 of the Best Types of Elephant Bush to Grow at Home

A close up horizontal image of the green, pink-edged foliage of Portulacaria afra pictured on a soft focus background.

Elephant bush, also known as spekboom, is a low-maintenance, succulent houseplant that is available in different leaf colors, sizes, and growth habits. From trailing to upright, variegated to bright yellow, there are wonderful options to choose from. Discover 11 of the best types of elephant bush in this guide. Read more.

How to Harvest Prickly Pear (Opuntia) Pads

A close up horizontal image of freshly harvested prickly pear pads with the spines removed.

Though they may be just a tad fierce-looking with their large spines and strange shape, prickly pear cacti are not only edible, they’re delicious! It’s a little tricky to harvest nopales without being poked, but we’re going to discuss just how to do this so you can painlessly enjoy this treat at home for years to come.

How to Grow and Care for Panda Plants Indoors

A close up horizontal image of the fuzzy blue-green foliage, tipped in brown of a panda plant (Kalanchoe tomentosa) growing in a pot.

Panda plant is a succulent species for USDA Hardiness Zones 11 and 12 that also makes an exceptional houseplant. It has fuzzy foliage edged in brown, for a rich two-tone look. A striking addition to succulent collections, it also makes an eye-catching standalone specimen. Learn how to grow your own panda plant indoors.

How to Grow and Care for Elephant Bush Indoors

A close up horizontal image of the succulent green foliage of Portulacaria afra aka elephant bush or dwarf jade pictured on a soft focus background.

With emerald-green, succulent leaves, elephant bush is an easy-care houseplant that can stand up to neglect. Also known as spekboom or dwarf jade, this plant has low water needs, plus it’s nontoxic and fun to propagate. Ready to learn more? Read our guide now to learn how to grow and care for elephant bush indoors.

Agave or Aloe? How to Tell These Plants Apart

A horizontal image of a pathway through a garden flanked on either side by a variety of succulents, including aloe and agave.

Get serious about succulents and learn the difference between agave and aloe. Don’t let their resemblance fool you anymore! After reading about them individually and discovering their notable differences, it’s simple to tell these stunning drought-tolerant plants apart – and they make a fantastic pair in the garden.

How to Grow and Care for Old Man Cactus Indoors

A close up horizontal image of old man cactus (Cephalocereus senilis) plants growing in pots.

For texturally-rich vertical interest among your succulent houseplants, consider introducing old man cactus. Covered in cascading hairlike white spines, this column-shaped desert species matures slowly. It requires a bright location, little moisture, and occasional maintenance. Read on for indoor growing instructions.

11 of the Best Hens and Chicks Varieties

A close up horizontal image of a variety of different hens and chicks (Sempervivum) growing in a succulent garden.

All types of Sempervivum are easy-care, drought- and deer-resistant succulents suited to growing in containers or as ground cover. But which is best for you? Simplify the selection with our roundup of 11 of our favorite hens and chicks in various colors including lilac, red, and black, and one with a cobweb texture.

How to Grow and Care for Yucca

A horizontal image of yucca plants growing on the side of a rocky hill.

Learn how to grow and care for yucca in your garden or landscape! This drought-tolerant plant thrives in hot climates, making it ideal for water-wise gardens. A stunning succulent that is perfect for xeriscaping and container gardening, yucca is low-maintenance while adding a dramatic statement to any space. Read more.

Do Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum) Plants Bloom?

A close up horizontal image of hens and chicks plants growing in the garden sporting pink flowers.

Can you expect your hens and chicks to bloom? Our guide explains how aging or stress causes succulent Sempervivum plants to form dainty flowers that are usually pink. After blooming just once, the plant dies. We also share tips for recognizing developing buds and keeping offsets alive once the parent plant passes on.

Learn How to Propagate Cacti

A horizontal image of a collection of succulents and cacti on a wooden table with a white wall in the background.

Sporting sharp spines, and coming in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, cacti are also easy to propagate. There are a variety of ways you can do this, whether via cuttings, offsets, seeds, or division. To learn everything you need to know to propagate these pointy plants, visit Gardeners Path for all the details.

Growing Hens and Chicks: How to Care for Sempervivum Plants

A close up horizontal image of a colorful succulent garden featuring hens and chicks.

Hens and chicks have been a longtime favorite, especially for those gardeners who don’t have a lot of time to tend to their plants. These succulents are eager to grow in the poorest, driest soils, dividing freely to fill those inhospitable places. Learn about growing hens and chicks in our guide. Read more now.

23 of the Most Fabulous Types of Epiphyllums

A close up horizontal image of bright red Epiphyllum flowers pictured in light sunshine.

Epiphyllums are forest cacti that exhibit a dazzling assortment of flower colors and shapes, on both compact plants and prodigious growers. With their luxuriant foliage and extravagant blooms, species plants and hybrids are delights to discover. Read more now to learn about 23 of the most fabulous types of epiphyllums.

Growing Orchid Cacti: How to Care for Epiphyllums Indoors

A close up horizontal image of a Queen of the Night (Epiphyllum oxypetalum) plant growing indoors.

Epiphyllums are large forest cacti that produce incredibly showy, oversized blooms. With their large, flattened stems, these succulent plants are easy to care for, fun to propagate, and stand up well to neglect. To learn more about growing fabulous epiphyllum species and hybrids as houseplants, keep reading now.

How to Grow and Care for Haworthia Indoors

A close up horizontal image of small haworthia succulent plants growing in a glass container surrounded by stones set on a wooden surface.

Haworthias are succulents that grow outdoors in Zones 9 to 11 and indoors as houseplants. There are about 60 recognized species and many variations. Most have a rosette form. Distinctive traits include bumps, bristles, ridges, and stripes. Some have “windows” to aid photosynthesis. Learn how to grow your favorites indoors.

35 of the Best Hanging and Trailing Succulents and Cacti

A close up horizontal image of succulent plants growing in hanging baskets with a brick wall in the background.

Cacti and succulents that trail over a planter’s edge create a beautiful vision of floral bounty. But not all of these plants have the same care needs – and each of them has a different visual appeal. Keep reading to discover 35 of the best hanging and trailing cacti and succulents, and choose your favorites!

How to Grow Succulents Outdoors in the Garden

A close up horizontal image of a mixed succulent planting in a garden bed.

Low-maintenance, water-wise succulents are popular houseplants, but did you know that you can also cultivate them outdoors in the garden? Read on to discover species suited to your USDA Hardiness Zone and create eye-catching arrangements that display the varied forms, colors, and textures of these quirky desert plants.

How to Plant and Grow Sedum (Stonecrop)

A horizontal image of 'Autumn Joy' sedum plants (aka stonecrop) growing in a garden border pictured in bright sunshine.

Sedums are a group of durable, gorgeous plants with very low maintenance requirements. Coming in both low and upright forms, stonecrop is versatile in the landscape, whether as specimen plantings or a complementary ground cover. They’ll even attract friendly pollinators! Read on to learn how to grow them for yourself.

How to Grow and Care for String of Pearls

A close up horizontal image of a string of pearls plant (Senecio rowleyanus) growing in a terra cotta pot set on a wooden surface pictured in light filtered sunshine.

String of pearls is a desert succulent suited to gardens in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 to 12 and houseplant cultivation in all zones. It is noteworthy for having round, green, pearl-like leaves that adorn cascading stems. Suspend it in a hanging planter for a dramatic display. Read on to learn how to grow string of pearls.

How to Grow Prickly Pear Cactus

A close up horizontal image of prickly pear fruit ready for harvest.

Whether you live in an arid region or a temperate climate, there is a prickly pear species suitable for your landscaping needs. Many Opuntias also come with the added bonus of edible pads and fruits. It’s super easy to get started and caretaking is a breeze. Learn how to grow prickly pear cactus in this guide. Read more.

9 Must-Have Succulent Planters

A large white planter is filled with various types of succulents.

Succulents are funky and fun to grow, especially in the trendy and functional containers we’ve gathered for you. Read on to discover 7 of our favorite pots and planters, plus key growing tips and a foolproof design scheme. Learn how to show off your water-wise plant collection now, right here on Gardener’s Path.

How to Root Aloe Vera Cuttings and Separate Pups

A close up horizontal image of aloe vera plants growing in pots outdoors.

For inexpensive succulent houseplants that grow quickly and are easy to care for, learn to root aloe vera cuttings from single leaves or divide pups from parent plants. The gel from the leaves soothes burns, and the starts you propagate make great gifts for indoor gardeners. Learn how to propagate aloe in this guide.

Tips for Growing Aloe Vera Outdoors

A close up horizontal image of large aloe plants growing in the garden in bright sunshine pictured on a soft focus background.

Aloe vera is an easy-to-grow succulent plant that thrives outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11. It makes an ideal addition to a xeriscape, foundation planting, or window box. If you’re ready to add spiky interest to your garden, learn how to plant and grow aloe out in the garden in this guide. Read more now.

What To Do About Woody Stems on Your Christmas Cactus

A close up horizontal image of Schlumbergera foliage pictured on a soft focus background.

Tropical Christmas cactus is a relatively easy houseplant to grow. Native to the rainforests of South America, it thrives with indirect sunlight in organically-rich, well-draining potting medium. The fleshy stems are green and segmented, but sometimes they turn brown and become woody. Read on to learn what this means.

Why Is My Christmas Cactus Turning Yellow?

A close up horizontal image of a Christmas cactus in full bloom with pink and white flowers.

Tropical Christmas cactus is a rainforest epiphyte with beautiful blooms that has become a popular houseplant. It thrives in indirect sunlight, and organically-rich, well-draining potting medium. It has green segmented stems that sometimes turn yellow. Read on to find out why this happens and what you can do about it.

How to Grow Christmas Carol Aloe: Anti-Sting and Makes You Sing!

A close up horizontal image of a 'Christmas Carol' aloe with green spiky leaves accented in shades of red, growing in a terra cotta pot.

Christmas Carol aloe has green leaves with red accents and is shaped like a star. This easygoing succulent is also suitable for growing outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11. Use the leaves to soothe minor burns, or let it shine as part of your festive holiday decor. Learn how to care for Christmas Carol aloe now.

How to Identify and Control 7 Common Christmas Cactus Pests

A close up horizontal image of the foliage, or segmented stems of a Christmas cactus plant growing in a terra cotta pot.

Christmas cactus is a popular gift at holiday time that makes an attractive and long-lived houseplant. By manipulating its growing conditions, you can enjoy an abundance of blooms every year. Generally low-maintenance, sometimes a plant is troubled by pests. Read on to learn which ones they are and how to manage them.

Is Christmas Cactus Toxic to Cats?

A close up horizontal image of a Schlumbergera in a white pot with bright red flowers set on a wooden surface.

In certain circumstances, cats and houseplants can be a lethal combination. But what about Christmas cactus? This popular, easy-care houseplant provides a cascade of color in the holiday season, but is it safe for households with pets? Learn about whether Christmas cactus is safe for cats in this guide. Read more now.

Why Is My Christmas Cactus Turning Purple?

A close up horizontal image of a Christmas cactus growing in a pot in the corner of a bright room, with stems turning purple.

Christmas cactus is a relatively trouble-free, easy-care houseplant that puts on a show of abundant tropical blooms during the holiday season. Sometimes you may notice that the segmented stems are no longer green, but purplish-red. Read on to discover what may cause this to happen, and what you can do to prevent it.

What Is the Best Potting Mix for Christmas Cactus?

A close up horizontal image of a Christmas cactus in full bloom on a windowsill.

If you grow Christmas cactus, the time may come when it needs repotting, and that means you’ll need an appropriate potting mix. There are many products available for cacti, but the ingredients vary. Learn what essential elements are required for healthy growth, and how to make your own perfect potting mix. Read more now.

Why Do I See Hair-Like Roots on My Christmas Cactus?

A close up horizontal image of a Christmas cactus with bright pink flowers and small hair-like roots growing between the leaf segments, pictured on a soft focus background.

If you’re an indoor gardener, there’s a good chance that you have a Christmas cactus that bursts into a profusion of blooms every year. In caring for it, have you ever noticed hair-like growths sprouting from between the stem segments? These are aerial roots. Read on to learn what they can tell us about plant health.

How to Make Your Christmas Cactus Bloom

A close up horizontal image of a large Christmas cactus plant with bright pink flowers on a brick mantlepiece in a home, pictured in bright sunshine.

The Christmas cactus is a rainforest plant that’s easy to grow at home in indirect sunlight and well-draining potting medium. Did you know that you can encourage it to bloom every holiday season with a few simple steps to mimic the natural dormancy process? Read on for instructions, and get set for a profusion of flowers.

How to Grow and Care for Christmas Cactus

With its bright and colorful blossoms, Christmas cactus is a gorgeous houseplant to have around during the holidays. To make sure this succulent plant produces vivid flowers to brighten your holidays year after year, it will need the right conditions. Learn more about growing and caring for Christmas cactus.

How to Grow and Care for Snake Plants

Six small variegated green snake plants in black containers.

Snake plants are a guaranteed winner for anybody, anywhere. Practically impossible to kill, sansevieria is a great addition to any home. Read about these hardy plants perfect for whatever shade of your green your thumb is here in our snake plant growing guide.

Propagating Succulents in 5 Easy Steps

Follow these simple steps to propagate succulents at home. | Gardenerspath.com

Are you looking for an affordable way to xeriscape with succulent plants? Create an enchanting low-maintenance array of colors, shapes, and textures by purchasing one of each of your favorites, and propagating the rest yourself. Learn how with easy instructions from your friends at Gardener’s Path.

11 Easy-Care Exotic Succulents to Grow at Home

Top down view of a collection of various multicolored succulent plants.

Succulent plants are not just for desert landscapes. Cluster them in bright containers to energize a patio, or among river rock for a serene garden bed. Set pots around the house for eye-catching color, shape, and texture. Easy and fun, they add style to any decor. Meet eleven beauties, here on Gardener’s Path.