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Close up of three succulent centrepieces in concrete look pots on a decorated dinner table with tableware
Create a unique living centrepiece, with a whimsical selection of succulents and a little help from Osmocote.

 

Perfect arrangement

Succulents, by their very nature, are cute and quirky (often with adorable names like ‘hens and chicks’), so it’s little wonder they’ve become the botanical darlings of interior styling. They are easy to grow, come in a kaleidoscope of colours, and most have striking geometric forms, which make them perfect for creating stunning centrepieces. Here’s how to make your own.

1. Choose a planter

A shallow ceramic bowl or trough is perfect, but you don’t have to be conventional – anything that holds soil is fine. An eclectic collection of vintage teacups, tins or jars arranged on a shelf or windowsill, with a single plant in each, can be a great look. Add drainage holes if possible; otherwise, take care not to overwater.

2. Select your succulents

Colour, shape, size and texture are important in any arrangement. Whether you’re going for a monochrome design, a multicoloured collection or want to mix plant heights, try to vary shapes and textures. Or for a minimalist look, repetition of a single variety in a row of identical planters can be very effective.

3. Get planting

Succulents’ worst enemy is wet feet, so good drainage is a must. Add a layer of stones to the bottom of your planter and fill with a specialised succulent and cacti potting mix. These are free-draining mixes that contain everything your plants need to thrive.

4. Keep them happy

To ensure your succulents stay healthy, water sparingly when the top two to five centimetres of soil feels dry. Feed with a fertiliser that is formulated especially for cacti and succulents, with high potassium to help strengthen the plant, and low nitrogen for compact growth and resistance to insect attacks.  

To keep your centrepiece thriving, give them a regular fortnightly boost with Osmocote Pour+Feed for Cacti and Succulents.

For all your planting needs …

Turn to Scotts Osmocote’s wide range of specialised potting mixes and fertilisers.

 

Photo Credit: James Moffatt

 

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.