About Zen Succulent Arrangements
Zen succulent gardens are meant to represent an aerial view of the sea and shore, and whatever lies between. Some Zen gardens are designed with small pebbles, keeping sand to a minimum. Stones represent islands, mountains, and large rocks in the landscape. Sand represents water and the designs you make are ripples or waves. If you don’t like the design you’ve created, use a small houseplant rake to smooth it out and try again. Use a tool from your houseplant kit for doodling, or even a chopstick. Some people seem to enjoy this simple process and say it calms them. If you find this a way of relaxing your mind and utilizing your creativity, make one for yourself.
Crafting Your Zen Succulents
A succulent Zen garden usually has only one or two plants and a few decorative rocks or other pieces, with most of the container devoted to sand for doodling. Choose sand or rocks as your primary element, depending how much space you want for doodling. Colored sand and various stones are available in many craft aisles or craft stores. Find a shallow bowl that coordinates with other pieces around the spot you want to keep your mini garden. A morning sun area will help keep your plants healthy. When planting this type of arrangement, the plants are normally kept in small containers or other makeshift holders. However, to keep your plant healthy and growing, plant it in a mix of fast-draining cactus soil in a portion of the bowl and divide the planting area with floral foam. Cover the roots with soil and then cover with sand or pebbles as you do the rest of the bowl. Your plant roots will be planted in soil, still allowing the same amount of top space for creating your Zen designs. In a few months you’ll likely see growth, which can be trimmed back if it interferes with the concept of your garden. Use low light plants such as Haworthia, Gasteria, Gollum Jade, or String of Buttons. These thrive in bright light or morning sun as well. You may also use low-maintenance air plants or even artificial plants. Ferns are a possibility for a shaded area as well. Enjoy doodling when you have the urge. Even if that is limited, enjoy your mini Zen garden as an interesting addition to your indoor décor.
