- Overwatering Your Succulents
The number one mistake succulent owners often make is overwatering their precious plants. Succulents are uniquely adapted to survive harsh conditions and are mostly drought-resistant. Overwatering can lead to root rot and will inevitably harm your plant. A good rule of thumb, especially for beginners, is to water these plants less frequently than you think.
The best strategy is to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. You can test this by poking your finger or a stick into the soil. If it feels dry about an inch or two below the surface, then it’s time to water. They are better off under-watered than over-watered.
- Poor Drainage
Succulents require excellent drainage. They do not like to have ‘wet feet’, so to speak. If you’re growing succulents in pots, ensure they have drainage holes. A common mistake people make is using a container without drainage holes, which may retain the water and cause the roots to rot.
Use a potting mix designed for cacti and succulents. The mixture should be porous to let the water run through quickly. Avoid using regular garden soil, as it tends to hold moisture for too long for the succulent’s liking.
- Watering from Above
Water your succulents by soaking the soil directly rather than pouring water over the top of the plants. Some succulents have powdery or waxy coatings on their leaves that can be damaged or washed off if you water from above. Besides, this approach might leave water trapped in the crevices of the plant, leading to rotting.
Instead, water at the base of the plant until you see the water runoff out the bottom of the pot. This approach ensures the water reaches the roots, where it is most needed.
- Not Adjusting Watering Schedule Seasonally
Succulents require more water during their active growth period in the spring and summer and less during their dormant period in the fall and winter. Many people continue their summer watering routines into the winter months, which can spell disaster for these hardy plants.
As the temperature drops, reduce your watering frequency. In some cases, depending upon your local climate, you may not need to water your indoor succulents at all during winter months, as the moisture in the air may suffice.
- Incorrect Timing of Watering
Correct timing is a critical factor in watering succulents. It is advisable to water succulents early in the day. The morning sun is gentle, and the temperatures are cooler, which allows the water to absorb into the soil and reach the roots without quickly evaporating.
Watering in the evening or at night can prove detrimental. The water sitting at the base of the plant combined with cooler temperatures can create a breeding ground for fungus and other diseases.
- Treating all Succulents the Same
It’s vital to remember that not all succulents are the same, and therefore they have different water requirements. Some succulents need to be watered more frequently than others. For example, Echeveria needs more water than, say, a cactus.
Understand the specific needs of your succulent variety. If you’re unsure, check with a local nursery or do a quick online search to figure out the specific watering needs of your plant.
- Ignoring Signs of Distress
Ignoring signs of distress in your plants is a major mistake. Yellowing leaves, falling leaves, and black stems are the most common signs of an overwatered succulent. Conversely, wrinkles, shriveling, and limp leaves might indicate a thirsty plant.
Pay attention to these signs – the earlier you catch issues, the easier it is to save your plant! Remember, your succulent communicates its health through physical signs. Providing the right amount of water at the right time can prevent these issues and create healthier plants.
- Using Poor Quality Water
Water quality can impact your succulents’ health too. Tap water often contains minerals, salts, and chemicals that can accumulate in the potting soil, affecting the plant’s growth. If possible, use filtered, distilled, or rainwater.
By avoiding these eight critical mistakes when watering your succulents, you can dramatically improve their health and longevity. Remember, these hardy plants are typically easy to care for, but they do have specific needs. Understanding these needs ensures you can easily maintain robust and vibrant succulents.
