Get a PDF copy
Home Plant guides The Ultimate Guide to Arranging Succulents for Every Space

The Ultimate Guide to Arranging Succulents for Every Space

Discover the ultimate guide to arranging succulents for every space! Learn practical, step-by-step tips to create stunning succulent displays that will make your home cozy, stylish, and Instagram-worthy. Perfect for DIY enthusiasts and plant lovers.

Roelof Jan Elsinga - Plant care for Beginners Author

Written by Roelof Jan Elsinga

Posted on:

Last updated on:

succulent-garden.png

Hey there, succulent lovers! I'm so excited to share some fantastic tips and tricks to help you create stunning succulent arrangements that will make your home cozy, inviting, and absolutely Instagram-worthy. Whether you're always busy or just someone who loves a good DIY project, this guide is for you!

Here's what we'll look at:

  1. Why succulents?
  2. Getting started: what you’ll need
  3. Choose your aesthetic
    1. Monochromatic
    2. Harmonious
    3. Complementary colors
  4. Choosing your succulents
    1. Thrillers
    2. Fillers
    3. Spillers
    4. A note on these types
  5. Step-by-step guide to arranging your succulents
  6. Care tips to keep your succulents happy
  7. Creative projects for every space
  8. Bringing in companion plants
  9. Final thoughts

Why succulents?

Back to top

diverse-succulents-around-a-rock.jpeg

First things first, why succulents? These amazing plants are not just easy to care for but also come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors that can add a touch of elegance to any space. Plus, they’re perfect for those of us who might not have the greenest thumbs: succulents are hardy and can withstand some neglect. Win-win!

Getting started: what you’ll need

Back to top

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of arranging succulents, let’s gather our materials:

  • Succulent plants: A mix of types, colors, and sizes.
  • Potting soil: Specifically designed for succulents, well-draining.
  • Containers: Terracotta pots, ceramic bowls, mason jars—get creative!
  • Small tools: A small trowel, tweezers, a paintbrush (to gently clean off soil from leaves).
  • Decorative elements: Stones, pebbles, and moss for that extra flair.

If you've picked up a few succulents already, you can skip the next 2 sections, but I highly recommend you read those before you continue. The next 2 sections will help you to create the cleanest, most organized (and fun) arrangement.

Choose your aesthetic

Back to top

succulent-green-arrangement.jpeg

After you've gathered your tools, pots, soil, and other decorative elements, it's time to choose your aesthetic! There are so many different ways to arrange your succulents, so where do you even start? Too many options make your life too complicated, so I've narrowed it down to 3 different aesthetics I think you'll love!

Monochromatic

Back to top

Stick to one color but play with different shades. Think purple arrangements with Purple Heart and Graptopetalum. This is one of my personal favorite ways to arrange succulents, because you can mix and match different textures without creating a chaotic mess.

Harmonious

Back to top

Use colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. Try mixing yellow, orange, and green succulents for a warm and inviting look. This is perfect if you want to create seasonal arrangements: think yellows, oranges, or reds for fall.

Complementary colors

Back to top

Go bold with contrasting colors like blue and orange or red and green. These arrangements are eye-catching and vibrant. These colors are always used together in design, because it makes each of the different complementary colors pop, but also create an aesthetically pleasing look.

Once you've picked the aesthetic you're going for, it's time to pick up some succulents!

Choosing your succulents

Back to top

You've picked your aesthetic, so you'll know which colors you're going to need. But, now you'll want to think about how it's all going to look. Besides color, there are 3 more options you should look at for your succulent:

Thrillers

Back to top

aloe-vera-in-sun.png

These are your statement plants, the tall, striking succulents like Aloe Vera or Echeveria. They add a dramatic focal point to your arrangement. This is what everyone will see first.

Fillers

Back to top

hen-chicks-succulent-plant.jpeg

Smaller plants that fill up space and complement the thriller, like Hen and Chicks (Sempervivum) or Jade Plant. These plants cover up the soil and help to draw your eye from anywhere in the pot towards the thriller plant.

Spillers

Back to top

succulent-in-pot-with-saucer.jpg

Spillers are trailing plants that "spill" over the edges of the container, such as String of Pearls or Sedum Burrito. These are completely optional, but really help to add another layer to your arrangement. These spiller plants are perfect for blending your arrangement in your existing decor.

A note on these types

Back to top

Depending on the look you're going for, you can pick one of each of these groups, or skip out on one of them. If you're not going to include one of the groups, I recommend you skip the spillers or the fillers. The thrillers are the focalpoint of your arrangement, so you should always have one (and only one).

If you pick more than one thriller succulent, you risk making the arrangement too chaotic in a smaller pot. If you have a larger container, with plenty of space to use fillers or spillers between the thriller plants, you can add multiple thrillers.

Step-by-step guide to arranging your succulents

Back to top

string-of-hearts-repotting.jpg

You've collected your tools, you've picked up your plants, it's time to create your arrangement!

Here's how:

  1. Prep your container: Fill your container about three-quarters full with succulent soil.
  2. Planting your thriller: Dig a small hole in the center of the soil and plant your tallest succulent.
  3. Add the fillers: Arrange smaller succulents around your centerpiece, ensuring they complement each other in color and texture.
  4. (optional) Spill it over: Add trailing succulents around the edges, letting them spill over the sides for a lush look.
  5. Finishing touches: Fill in any gaps with extra soil, and add decorative stones or moss for that polished finish. Use a small paintbrush to clean off any soil on the leaves.

You've now created your arrangement and I'm sure it looks fantastic! Now all there's left to do is to make sure your succulents stay happy and healthy. Let's see how!

Care tips to keep your succulents happy

Back to top

stressed-succulent.png

Succulents are low-maintenance, easy-to-care-for houseplants, so your arrangement will be a breeze to take care of!

Here are the most important things about taking care of your arrangement:

  • Light: Most succulents love bright, direct sunlight. A sunny windowsill is perfect!
  • Watering: Less is more. Water only when the soil dries out completely. Succulents don't do well in moist soil for too long, they need that dry soil to stay healthy.
  • Temperature: They thrive in warm conditions but keep them away from direct heat sources, especially in summer. In the summer, move your arrangement away from sunny windows, but keep it in a bright spot.

These are the most important parts of taking care of your succulent arrangement, but there is always more to learn (if you're interested). Have a look at my guide on taking care of succulent indoors for more information!

Creative projects for every space

Back to top

succulent-in-terrarium.png

Your windowsill is only once space where you can arrange your succulents. You can do so many different types of arrangements with them, so let's look at 3 more to help you get some inspiration:

  1. DIY gift ideas: Personalized succulent arrangements in cute ceramic bowls or mason jars. They're perfect for birthdays, housewarmings, or just because!
  2. Indoor tabletop gardens: Use shallow terracotta bowls to create mini succulent landscapes for your living room or kitchen. I can guarantee you, you'll have the best arrangement out of anyone you know!
  3. Outdoor oasis: For those with gardens and live in warm and dry climates, try large, repurposed containers like an old metal urn. Start with your largest succulent in the center and build around it.

Bringing in companion plants

Back to top

Want to take your arrangement to the next level? Combine succulents with other plants like cacti, blue fescue grass, or lavender for added texture and interest. Ornamental grasses can provide shade, and flowering herbs add a pop of color.

If you're going this route, pay very close attention to how much sunlight and water the companion plants need. Make sure they're as close to the watering needs of your succulents.

Final thoughts

Back to top

Arranging succulents is an art that combines your love for design, nature, and creativity. Whether you're sprucing up your living space or looking for a fulfilling weekend project, succulent arrangements offer endless possibilities. Don't forget to share your beautiful creations on Instagram and tag me @plantcareforbeginners! I can’t wait to see what you come up with!

Thank you for reading this post! I hope it helps you to keep your plants healthy and beautiful! If you're looking for more guides on specific plants, you can always request a plant guide to get a guide for the plant you have trouble with.

Test your plant care knowledge

Quiz completed!

Want to learn more? Sign up for my newsletter to receive free tips in your inbox!

Sign up now!

Are you ready to put your new knowledge into practice?

Get your own products from the links below and support us in our mission to help people take care of plants like this.

About the Author

Roelof Jan Elsinga - Plant care for Beginners Author

Meet Roelof Jan Elsinga, a passionate and knowledgeable plant care enthusiast. With 6 years of personal experience, Roelof Jan has gained a wealth of knowledge on indoor plant care. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced plant owner, Roelof Jan's practical advice and deep understanding of various plants and their needs can help you become a successful plant caretaker.

Although Roelof Jan may not have formal gardening credentials, his expertise has been cultivated through caring for many plants and providing valuable guidance to fellow plant lovers just like you.

Roelof Jan is always eager to expand his knowledge. He dives into many different sources to deepen his understanding, stay up-to-date with the latest findings and is always happy to receive feedback. He takes great care to ensure that the recommendations he provides are not only practical, but also accurate.

Roelof Jan's main focus is to offer reliable and easy-to-understand information and support to all plant lovers out there, helping them confidently navigate their plant care journeys with success.

Frequently asked questions

What are succulents?
Succulents are special plants that store water in their leaves, stems, or roots. This helps them survive in dry places, and they come in many fun shapes and colors!
Why should I arrange succulents in my home?
Arranging succulents can make your home look cozy and stylish. They add a pop of color and life to any space, making it more inviting!
How do I choose the right pots for my succulents?
When choosing pots, make sure they have drainage holes to prevent water from getting stuck. You can use fun materials like terracotta, ceramic, or even recycled items to match your style!
Can I arrange succulents in different spaces?
Absolutely! You can arrange succulents in various spaces like your living room, kitchen, or even on your patio. Each area can have a unique look based on the light and size of the space.
What do succulents need to grow well?
Succulents mainly need bright, indirect sunlight, well-draining soil, and a little water. Just remember, less water is better since they don’t like to be soggy!
How do I care for my arranged succulents?
To care for your arranged succulents, check the soil to see if it’s dry before watering. Also, dust their leaves gently to keep them clean and healthy!
Can I mix different types of succulents in one arrangement?
Yes, you can mix different types of succulents! Just make sure they have similar care needs, like sunlight and water, to keep them happy together.
How do I make my succulent display Instagram-worthy?
To make your display Instagram-worthy, play with various heights and colors of succulents. Use decorative pots, add some stones, and choose a nice background for your photos!
Is arranging succulents hard?
Not at all! Arranging succulents can be a fun and creative activity. With a little guidance and a few tools, anyone can create beautiful displays.
Where can I find inspiration for succulent arrangements?
You can find inspiration for succulent arrangements on social media, like Instagram and Pinterest, or in gardening books. There are lots of creative ideas to spark your imagination!

Pin this plant guide

More guides by Plant care for Beginners