Succulent Frames

We've been up to many interesting projects over the past few months here at R&S.  This is one we're particularly excited about since we've always wanted to make them, but never been able to find the time (or the right job). 

This set hangs on a shaded patio wall.

This large one hangs on a hot, west-facing wall.

(see the genesis of this one after the jump)

To construct the frames, we went to Sunset basic information - then put our own twist on it.

You have to start somewhere.

We had some beautiful old Redwood left over from a gate we had recently made, so that was a natural fit for the frames.  The chicken wire grid is especially helpful when doing geometric patterns - all you need is patience and some sturdy wire cutters.

For the pattern (although it was tempting to do the naturalistic style that we see so often), we thought it was important to take cues from the details on the house.  Our client loves Santa Barbara tile and has used it a lot in the hardscape.  From these we made our own interpretations of the Spanish Revival patterns for a more formal application.

We made these this past winter outside at our creek-side office; you can see how the Sempervirum and Echeveria completely change color with the temperature.  (Compare left-most frame above with previous photo).

Filling in

Echeveria glauca and Sempervirum 'Jade rose', 'Cobweb buttons', 'Sunset', 'Red Beauty' & 'Red Ruby' came from KBD Nursery in Newport Beach; the smallest plants you can find are the best.  Filler plants for the background were all Sedums, easily found in your neighborhood nursery. 

Don't forget to water once in a while!