Laura Seva: Love and care for succulents

Laura Seva is passionate about the world of plants, especially succulents, which she has been growing for years in her small garden. In addition, on her Instagram profile, @succulent_planet20, she offers practical tips, tutorials and lots of inspiration so that anyone can create their own green oasis. Laura has learned all the secrets of these fascinating species and we asked her to share some of her knowledge and secrets with us.

How and when did your love of plant care come about?

I always considered myself a “plant killer”, one of those people who, without knowing how, managed to make any green in the house not survive. I had never paid much attention to cacti and succulents, until one day, accompanying my mother-in-law to the nursery, I stumbled upon the succulent section and was amazed by the colors and peculiar shapes! It was an instant crush, so I decided to take some home. I remember unknowingly buying three grafts, an Echeveria and a Pleiospilos, which, unbelievably, has lived with me for 6 years. Seeing that, in my hands, these types of plants not only survived, but thrived, I began to collect them. During confinement, when we were all looking for new ways to connect, I was encouraged to share on Instagram what I was doing with them: transplants, care…. Although at that time, @succulent_planet20 didn’t exist yet, I did it from my personal profile.

And when did you start sharing on social networks?

During the confinement I started showing on Instagram how I took care of my plants from my personal profile. To my surprise, my followers loved what I shared, and I was getting more and more questions about care, transplants and tricks with succulents. It was at that moment that I realized there was a community interested in what I was doing. One day, in May 2020, I woke up with a clear idea-maybe I dreamed it, who knows-but I opened a new profile, and almost as if by magic, the name Succulent_planet20 appeared in my mind. That’s how it all started, and since then I haven’t stopped sharing my passion for succulents with the community.

Of all the succulents, which is your favorite?

I am especially partial to the Echeverias. The variety of colors and shapes they present, along with their perfectly geometric rosettes, really fascinate me. Each has its own charm and character, and I am always amazed at how versatile this plant can be. However, I also have a great admiration for the Aizoaceae. Their appearance and ability to adapt to extreme conditions make each species a small miracle of nature. Both Echeverias and Aizoaceae have a special place in my heart and in my collection.

Give us some advice that you consider essential.

My main advice is observation. By paying attention to our succulents and observing how they respond to their environment, we can learn to understand their “language” and their needs at any given moment. This attention to detail will allow us to keep them happy and healthy, which will be reflected in their vibrant color and growth. The key is to listen to what plants are telling us through their signals, as this will help us provide them with the optimal care they need.

Essential reading:

For many years, my reference has been Mercedes García Bravo. Her passion for cacti, aizoaceae and other succulent plants, as well as her way of explaining their care and needs, has been a great inspiration for me. His ability to teach how these plants work on the inside is really fascinating. I have been fortunate to have contact with her, although we have not yet had the pleasure of meeting in person. In addition, she gave me her book Cactus with Heart, which I recommend 100% for any succulent lover. Her approach and knowledge are invaluable for anyone who wants to delve deeper into the world of plants.

Cactus with heart. Much more than just thorns

Publisher: La esfera de los libros, s.L.

Author: Mercedes García Bravo