Okie dokie,

So first of all the original post of that picture (of blue and purple succulents) was created with spray paint. Not dye. The reason plants can be turned a different color is because the xylem absorbs the dye as well as the water. This does no harm to the plant itself.

Explanation of the celery project and colored roses: most people believe that the plant must be cut to turn another shade. Not true. Cut plant just absorb water faster. Faster results. So your succulent will still turn blue (or whatever color you try) but it will take a longer amount of time. This is because much of the dye is lost to the soil.

Okay some tips for dying your succulent: Pour dye into the water before you give it to the succulent. (it won't absorb dye alone). You need a lot. Don't just tint the water - turn it dark blue. Be patient. It takes time for your succulents to intake the water they need. Also if you want a turquoise succulent, use one that's naturally light green. If you want a red succulent, use a naturally pinkish one. If you come across a very light colored, almost white succulent, go ahead and try any color.

Okay and just a side note: I did this for extra credit in Biology last year. It worked, but took awhile. if you don't start to see results in 1 - 2 weeks try increasing the amount of dye. Also you people need to stop commenting negative things. This is a positive advice environment. I get it! You like your plants all natural. Cool. But you don't get to decide whether or not someone tries something new. No one asked for your opinion. They just asked for advice. And those succulents and flowers you think are natural before dyed? Ha. You must be kidding me. Seeds have been genetically altered for years. The flowers you grow, fruit you eat, and succulents you care for are not in the least bit like the ones that naturally occurred in nature a couple years ago. So stop bothering curious people about keeping plants 'natural.'

If you have any questions or comments I'm here to help.

Planet.

PS I gave my plants to my teacher for her classroom. If anyone is interested in a picture, let me know and I'll dye some more.