Container gardening and online marketing are increasing the popularity of succulents, transforming the likes of hens and chicks plants to collectible chic. The Internet makes it possible to purchase these plants,” said Debra Lee Baldwin, author of “Succulent Container Gardens” (Timber Press, 2010). Many of the most attractive succulents are native to Madagascar, South Africa and the Caribbean, meaning they’re frost tender and do well outdoors only in USDA Zones 9 and 10, Baldwin said. More than 10,000 plant species are classified as succulents, including those of the sizable cacti family. Planting succulents in containers not only makes over-wintering them easier but also makes growing them more rewarding. Succulents need good drainage, particularly when planted in containers. read more

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