Trader Joe’s has become a favored destination, offering a unique shopping experience that extends beyond groceries to include an appealing selection of succulents. These small, resilient plants bring natural beauty to any space, making them popular choices for both seasoned enthusiasts and new gardeners. The convenience of finding these charming plants during a regular shopping trip adds to their appeal, often surprising shoppers with unexpected finds.
Finding Succulents at Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s typically offers a diverse and frequently changing assortment of succulents. Common varieties often include:
Echeveria (known for their rosette shapes)
Sedum (which can have various forms and textures)
Haworthia (recognized by their distinct patterns)
Trailing succulents (like String of Hearts and String of Fishhooks)
Flowering succulents (such as Calandiva)
Cacti (including Coral Cactus and Zig Zag Cactus)
These plants are generally quite affordable, making them an accessible option for many. Prices can range from under $5 for smaller, individual succulents to around $15 for larger succulent gardens or those in decorative ceramic planters. The succulents are often sold in small pot sizes, typically ranging from 2.5 to 6 inches, sometimes in simple plastic containers or more decorative terracotta or ceramic pots. The stock at Trader Joe’s is known for its rotating and seasonal nature, meaning the specific types and arrangements available can vary significantly throughout the year.
Choosing Healthy Plants
When selecting a succulent, inspect its condition. Look for firm, plump, and vibrant leaves, without wilting, shriveling (which could indicate underwatering), discoloration, or unusual spots. Healthy leaves should not easily detach from the stem.
It is important to check for signs of pests, such as mealybugs or spider mites, hidden within crevices. Examine the plant for mushy stems or leaves, as these indicate rot, usually from overwatering. The soil should appear dry to the touch, not damp or waterlogged. A healthy succulent exhibits a natural, symmetrical growth pattern, without elongated or stretched sections, suggesting adequate light.
Caring for Your New Succulent
Once you bring your new succulent home, providing it with the right environment is important for its continued health. Succulents generally thrive in bright, indirect light; placing them near a south-facing or east-facing window is often ideal. While they appreciate ample light, direct, intense sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day, can lead to sunburn, so some protection may be needed. If a succulent does not receive enough light, it may begin to stretch out or become “leggy” as it reaches for a light source.
Proper watering is crucial for succulents, as they store water in their leaves and stems. The most common issue for these plants is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. To avoid this, water your succulent thoroughly only when the soil has completely dried out. Signs of overwatering include mushy, yellowing leaves that may fall off easily, while shriveled leaves can indicate underwatering. The pot your succulent comes in might not be suitable long-term, particularly if it lacks drainage holes, which are necessary to prevent water from pooling around the roots.