How to Make a Succulent Planter That Lasts: A Beginner-Friendly DIY with Liz Gemmell

Create a Stunning Succulent Planter – Step-by-Step with Liz Gemmell
Succulents are low-maintenance, versatile, and beautiful—and with the right technique, anyone can create a planter that thrives. In this hands-on guide, Liz Gemmell from Gemmell's Garden Centre walks us through building a succulent arrangement in a rustic log planter—perfect for patios, windowsills, or indoor displays.

Here’s how to create your own: (Or just watch the Video!)

Step 1: Start with the Right Planter (Even One Without Drainage!)

Don’t have drainage holes? No problem! Liz recommends building a proper base inside your planter to prevent root rot and keep succulents healthy! Here's what you need to do:

Layer like this:

• Rocks on the bottom for drainage

• Sand to keep things airy

• Charcoal (yes, you can shave a BBQ briquette!) to neutralize odors and prevent sour soil
  
  (Everything is available at both our Gemmell's Brockville and Gemmell's Smiths Falls location)

Step 2: Choose a Quality Potting Soil

Once your base is prepped, fill your container with a high-quality potting soil designed for succulents or cacti. This gives the roots the aeration and drainage they crave. It may vary depending on your plants, so come in and ask our staff which would be the best for your varieties. 

Step 3: Pick Your Plants—Think Thriller, Filler, Spiller

To design a dynamic and balanced look, Liz suggests combining three types of succulents:

• Thriller – Tall or upright plants for visual height

• Filler – Medium-sized plants to fill space around the center

• Spiller – Trailing plants like String of Pearls to cascade over the sides

Play around with colours and textures to make your arrangement truly unique. 

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Step 4: Add Decorative Stones

Liz’s finishing touch? Pea gravel. Sprinkle it around the top of the soil to hide any gaps, enhance the look, and help keep moisture levels even.

Step 5: Water with Care

Succulents don’t like soggy roots but they do need some water. A light watering once a week is usually perfect. Just remember to wash off any dirt left on the leaves to keep your plants looking their best.

Final Tip:
Less is more when it comes to succulents. But if you have extra, go ahead—have fun and experiment!

Ready to Make Your Own?
Visit us in-store at Gemmell's Smiths Falls or Gemmell's Brockville  or browse through our Youtube Channel for more ideas. Want to keep reading? Join our email list HERE