How to Make a Succulent Diffuser

I have a small obsession with succulents. Since my gardening skills are seriously lacking, succulents are just about the only plants I can keep alive. They are easy to care for and require very little water. Recently I learned how to combine my love of succulents with my love of essential oils by making a Succulent Diffuser. 

Why have succulents in your home? 

• Succulents naturally purify the air
• House plants release oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide
• Plants help regulate humidity indoors
• They give the look of fresh cut foliage all the time
• Indoor plants have been shown to improve mood and productivity
• Plants are an affordable way to add color and texture to a room

What is a succulent diffuser?

A Succulent Diffuser is a unique planter filled with a variety of succulent-type plants. It becomes a diffuser when you add lava rocks (or moss) to the soil. 

Lava rocks are porous stones covered in tiny holes. They will absorb the essential oils and emit the aroma. Drop your favorite essential oils directly to the rocks and the scent can be enjoyed all day.

You can also find gorgeous lava rock diffuser jewelry to carry your oils with you on the go. 

Succulent diffusers not only look nice, but they also freshen the air in your home or office.

How to Make a Succulent Diffuser

Supplies needed: 

• Ceramic pot (similar to this one) 
• 4-6 small succulent stems
• Potting soil
• Lava rocks (like these)
• Essential oils (where to buy) 

Directions: 

Add potting soil to the base of the pot, about half full. 

Remove succulents from the plastic pot and plant them in a cluster in the center of the pot, leaving at least ½ inch between each stem.

Add additional potting soil to surround the plants and pat down firmly. 

Add water and additional soil until the soil level is about 1 inch from the top of the pot. 

Cover the exposed soil with lava rocks, about 2 inches thick.

Add 6-8 drops of your favorite essential oil to the lava rocks, avoiding the plants, roots, and soil.

Place near a window or in an area that gets plenty of sunlight.

Repeat essential oils as necessary, or every 1-2 days. Water succulents as normal.

Essential oils to add to your succulent diffuser:

• Lemongrass
• Jade Lemon
• Grapefruit
• Tangerine
• Peace and Calming
• Citrus Fresh
• Lavender
• Frankincense
• Bergamot
• Pachouli
• …or any combination you love

Tips and Suggestions: 

Select a ceramic pot with holes in the bottom to allow for drainage. Pick a design that matches your style and decor. You can choose any size pot, but a pot at least four inches in diameter is ideal to leave enough room for the rocks (similar to this one). These can be found locally at any garden supply store. 

Mix several succulents varieties in one pot for an eclectic look, or keep it simple with one type of plant. A variety of heights and textures will give your succulent diffuser a unique design. You can get a variety of beautiful, live succulents here. 

If you don’t have lava rocks, you can substitute moss. It won’t last as long as the rocks, but it will add a nice pop of color. You can also combine the rocks and moss. 

Succulents thrive when watered using the soak and dry method. Soak the soil completely until a small amount of water runs out of the drainage hole. Do not water again until the soil has dried out. Depending on your climate, water your succulent using this method about every 7-10 days.

 Succulent diffusers are a wonderful way to introduce and share oils with friends. Every guest leaves with a gorgeous diffuser centerpiece to enjoy in their home. Grab your friends and get together for some planting, chit-chat, and fun!

Here are some more ideas to help you host a Make and Take Party. We’ve done all the work for you in these easy-to-follow guides. 

More essential oil recipes you might enjoy:

• DIY Car Diffuser
• Deodorizing Disks
• Carpet Cleaner and Deodorizer
• Fabric Refresher