Succulents have a very special appeal. Whether you enjoy caring for them in your home or yard, or simply like to admire them, there is no doubt that they add a special lushness and ambiance to their surroundings.

Although many are extremely easy to grow, they are a bit different than most of the other plants that many of us are accustomed to caring for. Here are seven things you need to know to achieve success with your succulents!

• Some succulents have such a plump appearance that it can be difficult not to water them a bit too often. A good soaking once per week is really all they need. This will help their root systems develop properly and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
• Succulents need sunshine, and lots of it, but they are also susceptible to sunburn. For the best results, place indoor succulents in or near a sunny window. Outdoor succulents should be placed in an area where they will receive a great deal of morning or late afternoon light, while remaining partially shaded during the hottest part of the day.
• Succulents can “tell” you what they need. For instance, if they begin to increase in height rapidly, with a somewhat sparse amount of leaves, they may be asking for more sunshine.
• Most succulents are extremely easy to propagate. In most cases, just removing a few leaves from a healthy plant and placing them on a bed of fertile soil, or a growing medium specifically designed for succulents is all you need to do to enjoy seeing many more plants emerge. While they grow, make sure to keep the soil slightly damp, but do not allow it to become too wet.
• Succulents are friendly. Planting many types of succulents together can result in a spectacular container garden. Accentuate it with pretty rocks, driftwood, or even colorful marbles and enjoy a lavish, but low, maintenance potted plant to enjoy in your home or give to a friend.
• Succulents need excellent drainage. Even if you abide by all the rules and only water succulents once each week, changes in humidity and other factors can allow them to get too much moisture. Avoid this problem by making sure that planting containers or outdoor garden areas have excellent drainage.
• Succulents prefer staying warm in the summer, but not too warm. Indoors, they should be kept in areas that range from 70 degrees for a low, to approximately 80 degrees for a high. Winter temps should be just a bit chillier, with 50 degrees as a low and 60-65 degrees for a high.

Growing succulents can become extremely addictive, so consider yourself warned!