Succulents including cacti, aloe, and jade, are renowned for their minimal watering requirements and resilience. However, despite this hardy reputation, succulents are not immune to improper watering techniques. Overwatering, underwatering, and watering at the wrong time are common mistakes one can make when caring for these sturdy plants. By understanding these mistakes and how they’re made, you’ll be better equipped to keep your succulents thriving.
Overwatering Succulents
Succulents are succulent because they store water in their leaves, stems, and roots. That’s why most succulents have a plump or chubby appearance. Overwatering is the number one killer of these resilient plants because it goes against their very nature.
When too much water is given, the succulent’s root system – adapted for drier conditions – can quickly become waterlogged. This drenched environment stifles the roots from receiving necessary oxygen, contributing to root rot. If not promptly addressed, this rot can spread throughout the plant and eventually kill it.
Once you notice the early signs of overwatering, like discolored, mushy, or falling leaves, it’s essential to let the plant dry out thoroughly. For recovering plants, replace the rotten roots and over-moistened soil with fresh, dry ones to prevent future issues.
To avoid overwatering, adhere to the “soak and dry” technique. Thoroughly soak the soil and then let it dry completely before watering again. Additionally, be aware of your specific succulent’s watering needs as some varieties may require more or less water than others.
Underwatering Succulents
At the other end of the spectrum lies the issue of underwatering. While succulents possess the ability to withstand dry conditions, they still need regular watering to thrive.
Underwatered plants may start to shrivel up, with their leaves looking wrinkly or droopy. Additionally, the plants may undergo etiolation which causes them to stretch and become limp, in a desperate search for water.
Neglect to address these signs, and the plant may enter dormancy as a survival mechanism, or worse, perish from dehydration. To remedy underwatering, gradually increase the plant’s water intake. Start by providing a little water, then progress to a substantial sapling-appropriate quantity. This slow increase helps prevent shocking the plant.
Wrong Watering Time
The time of day and year you choose to water your succulent can also have a significant impact. Succulents are best watered during the early morning hours. The reason is that the cooler morning temperatures allow water to soak into the soil without evaporating quickly, granting the roots ample time to drink.
Frequent watering is usually reduced when the succulent is dormant. For most succulents, dormancy occurs during the cooler months of the year, but there are exceptions like Aeoniums and Kalanchoes that go dormant during summer.
Improper Soil and Container Use
Believe it or not, the container and soil where your succulents grow also play a substantial role in proper watering. Having well-draining soil is crucial. Succulent-specific soil, or a mixture of potting soil and perlite, provides good texture and drainage necessary for healthy roots.
Similarly, it’s important to ensure your succulents’ pots have drainage holes. Without these, excess water has nowhere to escape, leading to soaked soil and increased chances of root rot. If you’re using a pot without holes, consider using a layer of pebbles at the bottom to create space for the water to sit without soaking the roots.
Water Quality and Temperature
Finally, the quality and temperature of water can affect plant health. Succulents generally prefer tepid water, as cold water can shock their system. It’s also important to use clean, pure water. Tap water often contains chlorine and other chemicals, which can damage or stress plants over time.
Furthermore, hard water or water with high mineral content is not advisable as it can cause mineral build-up on the plant’s surface leading to damage. Rainwater can be a great option as it is soft and typically chemical-free.
By understanding these common watering mistakes, you can ensure your succulent garden remains vibrant and healthy. Succulents, although known for their hardiness, still need careful and proper watering to flourish. Provide the right amount of water, at the appropriate time, in the perfect environment, and watch these desert beauties thrive.
