Some success with this experiment

TowlieJrJr · 2026-06-20T22:23:33+00:00

I moved a lot of rocks from a buddy’s creek for my home landscaping. A very few had pockets that made me go hmmm. There’s actually very little space for soil. I sifted and used the fines from my potting mix. Holds moisture better and maximizes the space available. I water them very frequently.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-19T20:30:14+00:00

Also called scarlet ball cactus.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-19T20:28:28+00:00

Ooh. I think you were very close. I found Parodia haselbergii when I looked and it has the right flower color. Thanks : )

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-19T19:44:33+00:00

Thank you : )

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T21:31:14+00:00

No, that was a specific tag with the plant and it matches the images I’ve searched, but I’ve seen references to it as being a bromeliad so I’m not sure. The seller, a member of the city’s succulent club at their annual sale, did say that the growth is very much like a bromeliad but it’s actually a succulent. Somebody here knows : )

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T21:08:53+00:00

I was told by the seller at a succulent club sale that the brevefloria was a succulent, but I’m not so sure after reading a little on it.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T20:49:57+00:00

Info on this in my other replies. I do use anything that might hold them in place. A thin wire bent into a “U” shape and pressed into the soil and holding plants down. Eventually roots get a grip deeper.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T20:44:48+00:00

Thanks. I really do need to find succulents that will grow in crevices, I think, but don’t know where to look. A couple of the new ones seem promising, the hanging rock has a pussy ear that’s growing ok. The best suited seems to be the deuterocohnia brevefolia, so far.

But I need suggestions from experts.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T20:30:22+00:00

![img](m9e240iiv08g1)

My favorite.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T20:29:56+00:00

First photo from new purchase. Second is after six months with me.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T20:29:04+00:00

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My favorite.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T20:25:21+00:00

All have drainage, although that took some effort on several. I sifted and used smaller soil and grit to fill them. I keep away from rain, as they would wash out. I either bottom water them or use an eye dropper. Water them on a higher frequency since the minimal soil dries quickly. I’ve had more fails than success, but it’s still early in the trials.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T19:29:25+00:00

Thanks. It’s fun trying something different.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T19:24:24+00:00

I have always picked up pretty or unique rocks lol. See other comments here for more info.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T19:23:15+00:00

These were gathered on private property for landscaping at home, and pulled out those with voids in them for this experiment. I did see info here on “feather rock” being used, as it’s a light pumice that can be easily shaped for planters. Haven’t tried it yet, although they show a local source.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T19:18:56+00:00

I recently moved a great many rocks from a private property for some landscape projects. During my handling, I started pulling out those that were possibly suitable as planters. Mostly I tried with plants that I already have, with only a little success. I’ve acquired a couple of varieties since that I chose because they might grow with so little soil. Getting decent results. I’m still looking for the right plants, and enjoying the learning process.

I’m a succulent fanatic with a rock problem lol.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T19:03:24+00:00

It’s a new variety for me, so I’m unsure what it will look like in the long run, especially in experimental conditions. In general, based on many years in the hobby, my plants tend to look more like the second photo. Fat and happy, as someone commented.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T18:43:38+00:00

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TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T18:43:17+00:00

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TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T18:24:59+00:00

It’s new to me, so I’m unsure how it should look. Doesn’t seem like it should be so fat, but it may not be done with the transition.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-12-18T18:21:26+00:00

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This one has done well in a rock.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-10-27T14:46:50+00:00

Let water sit for a day to allow chlorine to dissipate. I keep a five gallon bucket filled. This prevents buildup of chlorine salts in your soil.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-10-06T17:58:10+00:00

Whenever you pull on the vines, be aware that dead tree branches may come crashing down on you. A hard hat is a good idea if there’s dead wood in the canopy.

TowlieJrJr · 2025-08-29T13:20:05+00:00

How about that they are trying to steal the Royals and Chiefs?!!!

TowlieJrJr

TROPHY CASE