It’s no secret that there are some fanatical gardeners in the village of Paluma. At many a social gathering in ‘BC’ times (‘Before Coronavirus’), the main topic of conversation revolved around our passion for propagating, planting and growing our favourite plants, be they native or exotic species.
One such fanatic has to be Jennie at Cloud Cottage. Jennie has developed a serious addiction to succulents of many varieties, shapes, sizes and colours. Her collection is ever-growing and her dedication to growing these plants is very impressive.
Jennie’s addiction developed just over a year ago, with just a couple of plants. A friend, fellow gardener and neighbour (another Jenny), inspired Jennie to grow some of the different varieties of succulents. Since then her collection has rapidly expanded and she now has over 250 individual plants. Her favourite varieties are the Crassula’s and the Echeveria’s. Combined, she has over 90 different species and sub-species of these types of succulents.
Why grow succulents? Jennie says they are very easy to grow and easy to propagate. You can get free plants and expand your garden with very little effort. There are a huge variety of shapes and colours to collect. They are very adaptable and forgiving plants – if you forget to water them they will continue to thrive with neglect.
Jennie has some tips for ensuring successful succulent growing at Paluma (try saying that three times really fast!). Most importantly, they need protection from our heavy and continuous rain, so shelter is very important. They require bright, indirect light and some varieties like full sun, for at least part of the day. Good drainage is essential and they don’t like wet feet. Don’t kill them with kindness by watering them too often!
Jennie has taken to propagating many of her parent plants and she is also growing several specialist and rare varieties. She is potting up plants to sell in the future at the Rainforest Inn and at the Paluma Market (in ‘AC’ times – ‘After Coronavirus’). She continues to be creative in finding new and innovative ways to use succulents in the garden and in home displays and arrangements. Her latest creation is a ‘living clock’ made entirely from ‘baby’ succulents.
As with most ‘fanatics’, Jennie is always happy to talk about her passion and to share her vast knowledge and expertise in growing succulents. Just be aware……if you happen to ask Jennie about her succulent collection, prepare to be informed and inspired!
Text by Michele Bird. Photos by Michele Bird & Jennie Robinson