What Is A Succulent Starter Kit - Best Succulent Starter Kits

A Succulent Starter Kit Full Of Tiny Potted Succulent Plants
(Image credit: EnchantedFairy)

Succulents can decorate many spots in both the outside landscape and sunny windows in the house. But, it can get expensive to add fully grown plants to fill a planting bed or even a tabletop in front of an indoor window. You may want to use a succulent plant kit to start succulents and cactus from seed. This is one option to add a quantity of succulents to your collection. 

While garden kits are not the most inexpensive option for growing succulents, they do include everything you’ll need. Grow succulents from seed by using a succulent seed starter kit to learn the process and to check your results. 

Contents of Succulent Garden Starter Kit

We must consider that purchasing succulent seeds in any form has the potential to be a rip-off. Many reviewers of these kits appear pleased with their seed germination. Yet some consumers have reported ordering succulent or cactus seed that grew to be grass or a weed, and in many cases, seeds that did not germinate at all.

Some kits advertise as No Fail and, say their seeds that are “DROWNING & DROUGHT RESISTANT” types, assured to develop and grow. One site boasts of 90%+ germination rates. Please be aware that no guarantee can ensure every seed will develop.

Kits also include soil that is best for growing the seeds. Soil for succulents and cacti is a fast draining, gritty type. This type of soil does not allow water to remain around the seeds long enough to cause rot or drown out the initial growth. The right soil for succulent seeds holds just enough moisture for seeds to develop properly. Some kits include soil in pellets or other forms. Containers to hold the seeds are included with kits, as are labels for each small pot. There is normally a square, wooden box that holds all the small containers.

Where to Buy Succulent Seeds

The best place to find succulent seed kits is at your local garden nursery. They are also available online, and often in big-box stores. Find a respected nursery or an online source with reliable reviews before deciding on a succulent seed kit. This is the best way to ensure a refund if your seeds don’t germinate.

Tips to help your seedlings grow best.

  • Location: Grow hardy succulents outside in the proper climate. Grow soft succulents indoors in front of a sunny window or outside in USDA Garden Zones 9-12.
  • Where to Grow Succulents: Hardy succulents can grow in-ground or in containers. Potted, hardy succulents grow well outdoors in partial to full sun. Leave them in natural conditions, as they handle both snow and drought. Soft succulents can grow outdoors in the zones referred above, inside under plant lights or by a sunny window. Refer to specific plants for their needs
  • Acclimation: Allow about two weeks to gradually transition from bright shade to partial sun after delivery or sprouting of your seedlings.
  • Transplanting: Transplant young seedlings within 1-2 weeks. If necessary, plants can stay in original pots for several weeks with the right care.
  • Soil: Use gritty, well-draining soil to promote root growth and minimize rot. Try a cactus or succulent potting mix from your local garden center
  • Watering: Water deeply and only when the soil is completely dry. Actual frequency varies by location, container, soil, and season
  • Color: Acclimate to full sun during the first few weeks of growth for best sunlight to keep colors bright
Becca Badgett
Writer

Becca Badgett was a regular contributor to Gardening Know How for ten years. Co-author of the book How to Grow an EMERGENCY Garden, Becca specializes in succulent and cactus gardening.