My first succulent topiary – Part 2: adding succulent plants

Related post: Part 1: topiary form

Having completed my topiary form (which I wrote about in the previous post), it is now time to put it to the test and complete my succulent topiary.

I gathered the succulents that I will use. Using the stick end of a paint brush, I made holes in the moss, then insert the succulents. The completed topiary is shown below…

I will have to leave it in a horizontal position for a couple of weeks to allow the roots to grow in the moss.

Some pictures of my work-in-progress:

Making my topiary (work-in-progress): top 2 photos: gathering plants from my garden and leaving the cuttings to dry out for a couple of days before planting;
bottom left: the back of my topiary form – showing the picture frame, wire mesh and sphagnum moss; and bottom right: making a mess planting the succulents!

Fertiliser

Because the moss that the succulents are planted in does not provide the nutrients required, I asked a team member at Bunnings (a garden centre) for advice. He called a horticulturist friend, who recommended using Powerfeed concentrate by Seasol, diluted to 50% strength. Hope this works to keep them healthy.

Tutorial

Here is a great tutorial I found that also includes photos: Classic SoCal Succulent Wreath