Most arid/desert plants are easy to care for. Here are a few simple rules to keep them healthy:
Watering
By definition, these plants are used to dry conditions and cool overnight temperatiures. As a general rule, water sparingly, even in warm/hot weather and keep the soil at most slighly moist. The one thing succulents (eg Agaves), in particular will not tolerate is gross overwatering at ANY time of year. Let them dry out largely in late Autumn and start watering in late Spring as temperatures start to rise.
Soil mix and additives
Coming from desert conditions, these plants are used to free draining soils. So, if planting in a pot, we recommend using a 50:50 mix of multi-purpose compost (preferably peat free) and sharp sand/horticultural grit which improves drainage dramatically in the winter and is a more moisture retentive medium for the Summer (and so reduces the need to water often). If planting in the ground, we also advocate using the same mix for similar reasons, particularly in heavy/clay soils. Plants in a pot will benefit from an occasional feed with a general purpose fertiliser but those in the ground won’t need regular feeding because they will draw the minimal nutrients they require from the soil.
capitata var odorata (see our Palms page).
Sun and wind
You will be unsurprised to learn that these plants tend to like sun and are happy under a variety of light conditions. But they do need some light! Wind should not be a problem.
Hardiness
Perhaps surprisingly, we stock many plants that will be fine down to temperatures of -15 C or lower. Yucca rostrata and Carnerosana are good examples of extremely hardy arids. Please refer to individual product descriptions for specific advice. In winter it is vital that plants dry out significantly to prevent cell damage during sharp frosts when water turns to ice. If in doubt, cover smaller or less hardy plants with a few layers of horticultural fleece. If the plant is in an exposed position, many enthusiasts suggest protecting the top crown of plants with a small ‘hat’ or protective cover to prevent the growing point becoming waterlogged and so becoming more susceptible to frost damage. This shouldn’t touch the plant itself in order to maintain airflow – consider, for example, using a small sheet of perspex directly above the plant. If the plant is in a sheltered position, this is probably unnecessary.
