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  Classic SoCal Succulent Wreath/ Part II
   

Step 3: Insert cuttings into wreath.

It may be helpful to start with bigger, more unique cuttings (which may you may have fewer of). This wreath is being designed around three large graptopetalum cuttings set in a triangular pattern. Before inserting succulents, you may want to consider letting their cut ends callous over for 2-3 days. This helps prevent rot.
 
 
  a) To place cuttings, begin by making a hole in the packed moss with a pencil/pen/etc.  
  b) Insert the cutting, pushing it in gently until the leaves abut the wreath mold  
c) Secure the cutting using a florists' pin, or paperclip. This a good idea if you plan to hang the wreath soon.
 

Step 5: As you work, plant the leftover leaves for next year. Many of the succulents will root and grow new plants from just the leaves. Drop them on some moist soil and wait for them to root. Once they develop roots, plant them more firmly in the soil. Use a fast-draining potting soil to prevent rot. This there will be a ready supply of cuttings for next year's wreath.
 
It's often a good idea when placing the cuttings to keep pairs or trios of the same species together. It adds somewhat to the "naturalism" of the effect.
 
 

Step 6: Fill wreath in, mixing colors and textures. Fill the wreath in completely for the "classic" look, or go with something more sparse and sleek for SoCal modern.
 

Once the wreath is completely filled, it will take 3 months for the cuttings to root in completely. If the cuttings were pinned down with florist pins, though, it the wreath can be hung right away. After the holidays are over, the wreath will do best if it is hung in partial shade, and given an occasional watering. Remove the pins and be sure to rotate the wreath every now and again so that the plants all grow equally towards the sunlight; otherwise the wreath will start to appear lopsided.

As the year goes on, the plants cuttings will grow out from the wreath, and will eventually start to be a little gangly. The wreath can be easily fixed up year after year by cutting off the gangly plants and replanting them in the wreath, closer down to the base of the moss.

 
   

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