I want to have a container to put some hardy cacti and succulents in all year round. I have the correct substance - 40% grit, 40% cat litter and 20% sandy topsoil. I just need ideas for what plants to put in it. I do know that quite a few sedums can thrive outside, as well as opuntias, but I would like some variety.
Alternatively, are there any shops that sell categorised hardy plants?
Hardy container plant ideas
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For the discussion of topics related to the conservation, cultivation, propagation, exhibition & science of cacti & other succulents only.
Please respect all forum members opinions and if you can't make a civil reply, don't reply!
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Re: Hardy container plant ideas
Not an area I dabble in, but Paul Spracklin's articles would seem to be a very good starting point if I were to be tempted in the future ...
https://www.cactusandsucculentreview.or ... lents.html
https://www.cactusandsucculentreview.or ... lents.html
- iann
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Re: Hardy container plant ideas
North Surrey? Not in the hills, are you, could be quite chilly.
Delospermas, obviously. Most species are not great pot plants, sprawling and not desperately showy, but there are a few nice ones. There are also some very showy cultivars now available that should survive in just about any garden position. Also a smaller mound-forming one often sold as Drosanthemum hispidum even though it is a Delosperma. The real D. hispidum is also hardy and resistant to rain, but "interesting" rather than attractive. Near the coat you would have a lot more choice of shrubby mesembs, including most Lampranthus and Oscularia.
Consider some of the Echinocereus, possibly Escobaria, that can handle the cold and just need excellent drainage or some protection from the rain. With more protection you can look at things like Pediocactus or some of the alpine dwarf Opuntioids.
Delospermas, obviously. Most species are not great pot plants, sprawling and not desperately showy, but there are a few nice ones. There are also some very showy cultivars now available that should survive in just about any garden position. Also a smaller mound-forming one often sold as Drosanthemum hispidum even though it is a Delosperma. The real D. hispidum is also hardy and resistant to rain, but "interesting" rather than attractive. Near the coat you would have a lot more choice of shrubby mesembs, including most Lampranthus and Oscularia.
Consider some of the Echinocereus, possibly Escobaria, that can handle the cold and just need excellent drainage or some protection from the rain. With more protection you can look at things like Pediocactus or some of the alpine dwarf Opuntioids.
Cheshire, UK
- Brian
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Re: Hardy container plant ideas
Sempervivum.
Agaves.
Sedum.
I have them all in pots or in beds around the garden.
Agaves.
Sedum.
I have them all in pots or in beds around the garden.
- Paul in Essex
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Re: Hardy container plant ideas
Thank you!daydreamer wrote: ↑Wed Jun 10, 2020 7:56 pm Not an area I dabble in, but Paul Spracklin's articles would seem to be a very good starting point if I were to be tempted in the future ...
https://www.cactusandsucculentreview.or ... lents.html
I think we need more information before making recommendations as the choice is bewildering.
How big is the container?
What is the aspect of it - full sun/part shade?
Any overhead cover in winter intended?
What plants do you like?
Lots of little ones or one big one?
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Re: Hardy container plant ideas
Thanks, guys, sorry I'm new to the forum and can't find where the notifications arePaul in Essex wrote: ↑Thu Jun 11, 2020 8:25 pm
Thank you!
I think we need more information before making recommendations as the choice is bewildering.
How big is the container?
What is the aspect of it - full sun/part shade?
Any overhead cover in winter intended?
What plants do you like?
Lots of little ones or one big one?
Container is 60x40cm
I can put it in full sun.
I can cover them.
I like sedums and plants that make a mat. Unfortunately, I don't like most sempervivums, but I do like ones that are small and clump.
I do know that cacti and succulents need different watering, but I would love to have cacti outside! Not opuntias with little hairs tho cos they cause a lot of pain and I have pets! I want to keep agave queen victoria in a pot outside all year round but need to do some more research.
Re: Hardy container plant ideas
I note that you are assigned to North Surrey Branch, but I wonder if you have managed to get to any of our meetings? They are obviously in abeyance now until next year, but the experienced growers there and at any other Branch are a great source of advice.
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Re: Hardy container plant ideas
I became a member last Monday! I may be considering going to either North Surrey branch or the Brighton branch (go to uni there!)