Caring for succulents may seem simple enough but any enthusiast knows that succulent care mistakes can easily lead to plant demise. In this article, you’ll navigate common pitfalls to avoid when tending to these charming plants.
- Inadequate Watering
The watering needs of succulents are significantly different from traditional houseplants and even other drought-tolerant plants. Overwatering or underwatering succulents can lead to an unhappy plant. An overwatered succulent may have swollen, mushy leaves and stem, which can result in root rot. Conversely, underwatered succulents may appear to shrink and wrinkle as they use up their storage of water.
To avoid these mistakes, appropriate water amounts are necessary. Wait until the soil completely dries out before watering and in the watering session, thoroughly soak the soil. Mixed this advice with the understanding of the succulent type and season, too.
- Not Providing Enough Light
Many species of succulents hail from desert locations, where sunlight is abundant. When succulents lack enough light, they may stretch out in a process called etiolation, searching for more light. The Etiolated succulents have a lean, elongated appearance and may lose their vibrant hues.
Prevent this by placing the succulents in a location where they receive plenty of bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight, however, may cause sunburns on the plant. Thus, balance is key when it comes to light exposure.
- Using the Wrong Soil
Another common succulent care mistake is using the wrong soil mix. Succulents need a well-draining soil that doesn’t retain too much moisture, protecting them from root rots. Standard potting soil is too dense for succulents and doesn’t drain well, which can result in waterlogging.
A quick remedy is using a specific succulent and cactus mix, which includes sand, pumice, or perlite to enhance drainage. Adding coarse sand or fine gravel to regular potting soil at a ratio of 1:1 also leads to better drainage.
- Incorrect Pot Choice
Just as soil selection is important, picking the wrong pot can also kill your succulent. Avoid pots without drainage holes. These pots trap excessive water, creating a damp environment that succulents despise. For container choice, clay pots, such as terracotta, are perfect because they’re porous and absorb excess moisture.
Do not use excessively larger pots than necessary since more soil means more moisture, increasing the risk of root rot. Instead, the pot should fit the succulent with minimal extra room.
- Exposing Succulents to Extreme Temperatures
Succulents aren’t fans of the cold. While many species can withstand some level of frost, extended exposure to temperatures below freezing can damage or even kill a succulent. Similarly, extreme heat is also problematic for succulents.
Protection from extreme temperatures means providing adequate shading, especially during the heat of midday sun and moving them indoors during extreme cold.
- Neglecting Pest Control
Succulents can be prone to pest infestation by spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Ignoring pest infestations can lead your plant to become sick, stunted, or even dead.
To deter pests, maintain good plant health and ensure conditions aren’t excessively humid. Additionally, consider natural pest deterrence methods such as insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
- Forgetting to Fertilize
Though succulents don’t need much fertilizer, completely skipping it hinders the plants’ healthy growth and vibrance. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength is best. Succulents generally only need fertilizing during their growing season, typically from spring through fall.
By understanding and avoiding these common succulent care mistakes, your succulents can grow in their best health and vibrance. Remember, each succulent species has unique needs. Be open to continually learning and adjusting your care routine. Your thriving, radiant succulent garden will be well worth the effort.
