What are Succulent Plants?
Way too often I have people tell me about a great plant that they remember from years ago. They
wish they knew what it was so they could buy another. Once they begin to describe the plant, it
quickly becomes apparent that they are talking about a succulent.
There is such an enormous diversity among succulent plants. This is why they aren’t always
instantly recognized or remembered as succulents, but it is also one of the great draws for these
plants. Succulents haven’t always been particularly popular. However, in the past few years
they’ve become more high profile due to their low maintenance requirements, unusual plant
forms, wide variety, and stunning colors.
Simply put, succulents are plants that store water in their leaves and stems so that they can
tolerate dry conditions. Most have thick leaves and stems that act like water storage tanks. Many
demonstrate additional methods of reducing water loss through transpiration like waxy leaves or
a covering of hair. Succulent plants are often unrelated taxonomically and are native all over the
world. However, their adaptation to dry climates gives many a similar appearance.
There are over 50 plant families that are considered succulents. They are found most often in
semi-deserts. These are dry areas that receive slightly more rain than true deserts. They can
typically be grouped into three areas: high alpine mountains (where hardy succulents are native),
temperate coastal regions, and the dry tropics. I say “most often” and “typically” because there
are exceptions. Some varieties of succulents actually grow in wet, tropical areas as well. The best
known succulents are cactus plants. Cacti store water in their stems.
Oxalis
There are over 500 different species of Oxalis that are commonly
known as Sorrels or Shamrocks.
Many of them have become weeds after being imported into other
regions.
However, several species like the Silver Shamrock are very well
behaved and make great additions
to the garden as ground covers or as rock garden plants.
Growing Shamrocks in the Garden
Shamrocks may grow from bulbs, corms or rhizomes.
The hardiness varies with different species, from hardy in zone 3 to frost tender.
Tender species can be grown in containers and brought indoors to overwinter.
Shamrocks grow and bloom best in full sun, but will they will tolerate partial
shade.
In hot summer regions they will need protection from the afternoon sun.
They should only be planted in very well drained soil.
Water regularly and thoroughly while actively growing,
but Shamrocks prefer to be kept on the dry side during winter while they are
dormant. In areas with wet winters they should be grown in raised planting beds
or under the eaves of the house.Provide protection from slugs and snails.
Growing Shamrocks as House Plants
Many hybrid Shamrocks are grown and sold as house plants in early spring.
They are very easy to care for plants, but they do have a few cultural
requirements.
Shamrocks grow best when they are grown in bright light but not direct sun,
relatively cool temperatures and plenty of fresh air.
Keep the soil evenly moist when your Shamrocks are actively growing,
but allow them to slowly dry out and go into dormancy when they begin to lose
vigor.
The Shamrock's Dormant PeriodLike all bulb type plants, Shamrocks
require a period of dormancy every once in a while. Shamrock Plants grown in
containers will need two or three rest periods every year to continue growing
their best.
When your Shamrock plant starts looking a little punky,
stop watering and as the leaves all turn brown, pull them off.
Set the planter somewhere that it will remain
cool and dry for about two or three months.
Note: The purple leaved varieties of Shamrocks only need about a month of
rest.
After your Shamrocks have enjoyed their 'vacation' you can resume watering
and give them a shot of all purpose house plant food (10-10-10).
In a very short time you will be rewarded with a happy new Shamrock!
Propagating Shamrock Plants
At the end of the dormant cycle you might want to remove the Shamrock bulbs or
tubers from the pot.
Separate the bulbs and replant just under the surface of the soil in good, slightly
sandy houseplant soil.
Grass
Many grasses are short, but some grasses, like bamboo can grow very tall. Plants from the grass
family can grow in many places, even if they are very cold or very dry. Several other plants that look
similar but are not members of the grass family are also sometimes called grass; these
include rushes, reeds, papyrus, and water chestnut.
Grasses are an important food for many animals,
like deer, buffalo, cattle, mice, grasshoppers, caterpillars, and many other grazers. Unlike other
plants, grasses grow from the bottom, so when animals eat grass they usually don't destroy the part
that grows.[2]Without grass, dirt can wash away into rivers. This is called erosion.
Lawn grass is often planted on sports fields and in the area around a building.
Sometimes chemicals and water is used to help lawns to grow.
People have used grasses for a long time. People eat parts of
grasses. Corn, wheat, barley, oats, rice and millet are cereals, common grains whose seeds are
used for food and to make alcohol such as beer.
Sugar comes from sugar cane, which is also a plant in the grass family. People have grown grasses
as food for farm animals for about 10,000 years. Grasses have also been used to make paper for
more than 4000 years. People use bamboo to build houses, fences, furniture and other things.
Grass plants can also be used as fuel, to cover roofs, and to weave baskets.