Cebolla Floral Arranging Class: Succulents

Hello dear readers! A floral enthusiast to the core, I had the recent pleasure of attending a succulent arranging class at Cebolla hosted by the succulent-whisperer herself, Jordan. Strikingly unique, these little desert-dwellers boast tender waxy (even velvet!) leaves in vibrant shades of green, red, and purple, and bloom in an array of whimsical shapes and textures. I've long had a love affair with the succulent, swooning after its rustic and earthy burst of petals, and exotic nature, reminiscent of plants from a far away land. And so, I'm thrilled to share the precious details from my class so you too can learn succulent tricks of the trade and create your own little zen garden! Enjoy! 

Here's what you'll need:

• Echeverias (Several different varieties)
• Crassula (Jade Plants)
• Kalanchoe Beharenis Fang
• Kalanchoe Tomentosa
• Rhipsalis
• Sedum Nussbaumerianum
• Haworthias
• Kalanchoe Chocolate Soldier
• Staple
• Wooden box/plastic liner (or whatever container you choose)
• Moss
• Dutch Copper Wire 
• Soil

1. Prep your vessel with a waterproof plastic liner, and fill it with a light layer of soil. We used a whitewashed woodland box. A concrete bowl would also be the perfect home for these beauties!

2. Choose two large succulents (they can be the same or different types) and place them on opposing sides of the vessel to anchor the arrangement. Keep in mind, the roots should be ensconced in rich soil, so there should be plenty of cushion for them.

3. Next, fill in the open space in the middle with the smaller succulents or perhaps some from the taller cactus-like variety. It's really up to you! You can fit oodles of succulents in one container so pack them in tight! Be gentle though, as sometimes the leaves can be brittle. 

4. Next, gently tuck moss in any of the open spaces to conceal the soil and soften the arrangement. A chic detail from Holland, we curled thin copper wire around the leaves, adding a touch of shine and visual interest. Again, the copper wire is just a suggestion, not a must, and you can use as much or as little as you like.

5. Finally, gently pulling back the leaves, spritz the soil with water (do this every few days, as they don't need much water) and place the arrangement in a sunshine filled room. And there you have it, a gorgeous little garden!