—— Nova Sterling

I’ve been a succulent enthusiast for years, and my journey with these hardy little plants has been both rewarding and full of surprises. It all started when I bought a tiny Echeveria from a local nursery, captivated by its rosette shape and pastel hues. Before I knew it, my collection had expanded to include Haworthia, Lithops, Sedum, and even a towering Crassula ovata—better known as the jade plant.

One of the biggest lessons I learned was about watering. Like many beginners, I overwatered my first few succulents, thinking they needed the same care as regular houseplants. The result? Mushy, rotting leaves. After some trial and error, I discovered the “soak and dry” method—giving them a deep watering and then waiting until the soil was completely dry before watering again.

Another key factor was sunlight. Some succulents, like Graptopetalum, love full sun and develop stunning colors when exposed to enough light. Others, like Sansevieria, prefer indirect light and thrive indoors. I experimented with different locations in my home, eventually setting up a dedicated sunny windowsill for my sun-loving varieties and a shaded corner for the more delicate ones.

Propagation quickly became my favorite part of growing succulents. It was amazing to see a single leaf of Echeveria sprout tiny roots and develop into a whole new plant. I started giving away my propagated succulents to friends, and soon, I was trading cuttings with other enthusiasts, expanding my collection even further.

Now, my backyard is filled with colorful succulents, arranged in various pots and rock gardens. Every morning, I take a few minutes to admire them, checking for new growth or the occasional bloom. Growing succulents has taught me patience and the beauty of resilience. They thrive in harsh conditions, adapting and surviving—just like us in life’s challenges.

If you’re thinking about starting your own succulent collection, my advice is simple: choose a few beginner-friendly varieties, learn their water and light needs, and enjoy the process. Before you know it, you’ll be hooked—just like I was!