
In the cool regions of northern Europe, but where temperatures rarely fall below freezing, many cacti and succulent species will thrive outdoors in troughs, raised beds and pots - provided the plants are raised above ground level to allow water to drain away freely. A warm sheltered position – such as a walled south-facing corner, or a covered patio or balcony where the plants can more easily be protected from rain - will provide the ideal environment.
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In warmer climates, there is a much greater scope for growing cacti and succulents outdoors in containers. In large pots, groups of plants that flower at different periods and have striking foliage forms such as the purple leafed Aeonium arboreum ‘Schwarzkopf’.
Where temperatures do not consistently fall below 13 degrees Celsius, any dwarf cacti, such as species and cultivars of Gymnocalycium, mammillaria, and Rebutia, make fascinating displays of form and texture in outdoor bowls and troughs in the garden. These dwarf, cluster-forming species also give a magnificent display of vibrant colour that will last for many weeks on end during the summer.
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There is one important group of cacti however that requires shady conditions, or at least filtered light. These are the epiphytes that come from the humid and shaded rain forests of South America such as the Christmas cactus – Schlumbergera bridgesii and Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri.
For related articles click onto the following links:
COLD HARDY EXOTIC PLANTS FOR THAT TROPICAL GARDEN EFFECT
EVERGREENS FOR DRY SHADE
GASTERIA maculata
HARDY CACTI AND SUCCULENTS FOR GROWING OUTSIDE
HOW TO GROW SEDUM SPECTABILE 'AUTUMN JOY'
FLOWERING PLANTS FOR LATE SUMMER/AUTUMN COLOUR
HOW TO CARE FOR THE JADE PLANT
HOW TO CHOOSE PLANTS FOR HOT, DRY BORDERS
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