Toronto Star

TRY IT OR BUY IT

Pretty china teacups are a charming alternativ­e to garden pots,

- DEBRA NORTON SPECIAL TO THE STAR

Whether you’re throwing a summer brunch or a bridal shower, these little teacup succulents make a perfect party favour. A collection of mismatched teacups with tiny succulents nestled inside are a charming alternativ­e to pots when grouped together on a table, tray or windowsill. Succulents are ideal for container gardening, easy to care for and easy to plant.

Just Try It

Vintage teacups can often be found in abundance at thrift shops and antique markets, and online at sites such as Etsy. Once you’ve gathered your teacups, all you need is soil, pebbles, plants and a sunny spot.

Step 1: Gather and shop for the supplies

What you’ll need . . .

Vintage teacup

Cactus soil

Small stones or pebbles

Succulents

Paper tags and twine (optional)

Step 2: Add a layer of stones

Add a small layer of stones or pebbles to your teacup. This allows room for drainage. Succulents don’t like excess water.

Step 3: Add soil

Succulents like well-draining soil. Add a spoonful or two of cactus soil to the cup, leaving enough room for the plant to sit comfortabl­y inside. If necessary, you can top up the soil once you have added the plant.

Step 4: Plant it

Carefully remove the succulent from its pot or tray. The easiest way to do this without damaging the plant is to gently squeeze the container to loosen it. Once removed, gently loosen the soil and roots and place in the cup. If needed, add a little extra soil.

Finale: Voila!

Succulents do well in sunny spots and don’t like to be overwatere­d. Make sure the soil is totally dry between watering.

Just Buy It

If you don’t feel like getting your hands dirty, here’s a few ready-made succulents available to order.

Stella Designs Shop mini-succulent in jar

$7.44 plus $7.44 shipping

Ready to ship in 1-2 weeks

Pair hand-painted jam jars and adorable mini succulents and you have a perfect match. If you love succulents you’ll be pleased with the selection of gifts and favours offered by this Etsy shop.

Crate and Barrel potted artificial short succulent

$14.95 plus $23.57 shipping

An easy-care faux succulent in a modern cement pot offers a more modern take on our teacup version. Pulp and Mill succulent illustrati­on

$6.40, no shipping cost

Instant download

Not a green thumb?

Download this easy care succulent illustrati­on hand-drawn by a St. Catharines, Ont., design studio offering trendy instant printable art for your home.

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 ??  ?? Teacup succulents are a charming, easy-to-make alternativ­e to garden pots.
Teacup succulents are a charming, easy-to-make alternativ­e to garden pots.
 ??  ?? This Stella Designs Shop succulent is available online at Etsy.com.
This Stella Designs Shop succulent is available online at Etsy.com.
 ??  ?? Beat the autumn chill and put one of these charmers by your window.
Beat the autumn chill and put one of these charmers by your window.

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