By Sue Davis

Rowan County Master Gardener Volunteer

Whenever Hayden Shuping comes to speak to the Rowan County Extension Master Gardeners, we have a good time learning about different plants. You may remember his visit in February to talk about hydrangeas. He returns to speak July 10, at 1 p.m. at the Rowan County Extension Office Auditorium. His topic this month is succulents.

Succulents are gaining popularity, especially among younger gardeners. These plants are tricky to grow, but because they take little space and provide a great deal of color, learning to care for them is fun and rewarding.

Shuping will give an overview of favorite succulents and how to grow and care for them. He will explain the differences between “tender” and “hardy” and suggest uses for both.

Shuping became interested in succulents after he started working for Reynolda Gardens. He spends much of each day in the main greenhouse, which is commonly called the Conservatory.

From the beginning, plants from around the world selected from many environments have been kept there. The Conservatory has an educational display and is home to unusual plants. The Conservatory was his first real experience with a diverse selection of succulents.

After a challenging learning curve, he mastered the art and science of caring for the plants. He admits he did kill some plants within the first year or so while he learned. After learning more about each genus and species and some trial and error it became second nature for him to take care of and grow succulents.

Soil, drainage, water and light are all factors that make a vast impact on all plants, but succulents can decline quickly if one or more elements are not adequate.

“Tender and Hardy Succulents” will be presented July 10 at 1 p.m. at the Rowan County Extension Office, 2727 Old Concord Road. Plan to arrive about 12:45 p.m. to look at the newly restored Pollinator Garden, the award-winning Hell Strip and for light refreshments. The program will last approximately 1 hour.

Please call 704-216-8970 to reserve your space for this exciting presentation.