Succulents are among the most popular plants for indoor and outdoor gardens, cherished for their striking appearance, low maintenance, and resilience. However, one of the most common challenges that succulent owners face is knowing exactly how much water their plants need. Unlike other plants, succulents have adapted to survive in arid environments with minimal water, which means that their watering needs are quite different from those of typical houseplants. Overwatering is the most frequent cause of succulent distress, while underwatering, though less common, can also occur. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about watering succulents, including how often to water, how to recognize signs of overwatering and underwatering, and how to adjust your watering routine according to the season and environment.
Understanding Succulent Watering Needs
Succulents are a diverse group of plants that have evolved to thrive in harsh, dry conditions. They store water in their leaves, stems, and roots, which allows them to survive long periods without water. This unique adaptation is what makes succulents so resilient and easy to care for, but it also means that they have very specific watering needs.
The key to watering succulents properly is to understand that they prefer to dry out completely between waterings. Unlike most plants, which thrive in consistently moist soil, succulents need a cycle of wet and dry periods to stay healthy. This means that the frequency of watering will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of succulent, the climate, the time of year, and the growing conditions.
How Often Should You Water Succulents?
The frequency of watering is one of the most critical aspects of succulent care. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should water your succulents, a general rule of thumb is to water them thoroughly once the soil has dried out completely. In most cases, this will mean watering your succulents every 1 to 2 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) and less frequently during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Factors That Affect Watering Frequency
Several factors can influence how often you should water your succulents:
Type of Succulent: Different succulents have different water needs. For example, cacti (a type of succulent) typically require less frequent watering than other types of succulents like echeverias or sedums. Knowing the specific requirements of your succulent species can help you tailor your watering routine.
Climate: The climate in which you live plays a significant role in how often you should water your succulents. In hot, dry climates, succulents may need to be watered more frequently, while in cooler, more humid climates, they may need less water. If your succulents are outdoors, the weather conditions, including temperature and humidity, will also affect how quickly the soil dries out.
Season: Succulents typically have a growing season (spring and summer) and a dormant season (fall and winter). During the growing season, they require more water because they are actively growing. During the dormant season, their growth slows down, and they require less water. Adjusting your watering schedule according to the season is crucial for keeping your succulents healthy.
Container and Soil Type: The type of container and soil you use for your succulents can also impact how often you need to water them. Succulents should be planted in well-draining soil and containers with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom, which can lead to root rot. If your succulents are in a container without drainage holes or in soil that retains too much moisture, you will need to water them less frequently.
Indoor vs. Outdoor: Succulents kept indoors typically require less water than those grown outdoors, as indoor environments are generally more controlled and less exposed to the elements. Outdoor succulents may need more frequent watering, especially if they are in direct sunlight or exposed to wind.
Signs That Your Succulent Needs Water
One of the best ways to determine when your succulent needs water is to observe the plant itself. Succulents are very good at communicating their needs through their appearance. Here are some signs that your succulent may need water:
Wrinkled or Shriveled Leaves: When succulents are thirsty, their leaves may begin to wrinkle or shrivel as they use up their stored water reserves. This is a sign that the plant needs to be watered soon. However, it’s important not to let the leaves get too wrinkled, as this can stress the plant.
Soft or Mushy Leaves: If the leaves of your succulent feel soft or mushy to the touch, it may be a sign of overwatering rather than underwatering. However, if the leaves are soft and the soil is dry, it could indicate that the plant is extremely dehydrated and in urgent need of water.
Color Changes: Succulent leaves may change color when they need water. For example, leaves that are usually bright green may turn pale or yellowish when the plant is thirsty. Some succulents may develop a slightly translucent appearance when they are in need of water.
Leaf Drop: Some succulents may start to drop their lower leaves when they need water. This is a natural response to drought stress, as the plant sheds its older leaves to conserve water. If you notice excessive leaf drop, it may be time to water your succulent.
Soil Condition: One of the most reliable ways to determine if your succulent needs water is to check the condition of the soil. If the soil is completely dry to the touch, it’s time to water your plant. You can also use a moisture meter to check the moisture level in the soil.
See also: How Long Does It Take to Grow Succulents?
How to Water Succulents Properly
Proper watering is essential for the health and longevity of your succulents. Here are some tips for watering succulents effectively:
Watering Method
The best way to water succulents is to water them deeply but infrequently. This means that when you water your succulent, you should water it thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the container. This ensures that the water reaches the roots and encourages the plant to develop a deep root system. After watering, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
Use the Right Watering Tools
Using the right tools can make watering succulents easier and more efficient. A watering can with a long spout is ideal for watering succulents, as it allows you to direct the water to the base of the plant without getting water on the leaves. Succulents don’t like to have water sitting on their leaves, as this can lead to rot or fungal infections.
Avoid Overhead Watering
It’s important to avoid overhead watering, especially for succulents kept indoors. Overhead watering can cause water to collect in the rosettes or crevices of the plant, which can lead to rot. Instead, water the soil directly at the base of the plant.
Water in the Morning
Watering succulents in the morning is generally recommended, especially if they are kept outdoors. Morning watering allows the plant to absorb water before the heat of the day sets in, and it gives the leaves time to dry out before nightfall, reducing the risk of rot.
Adjust Watering Frequency Based on the Season
As mentioned earlier, succulents require more water during their growing season (spring and summer) and less water during their dormant season (fall and winter). During the growing season, you may need to water your succulents every 1 to 2 weeks, while during the dormant season, you may only need to water them once a month or even less.
Check the Soil Moisture
Before watering your succulent, always check the moisture level of the soil. If the soil is still damp from the previous watering, wait a few more days before watering again. Succulents prefer to dry out completely between waterings, so it’s important not to water them too frequently.
Signs of Overwatering and Underwatering
Overwatering and underwatering are two of the most common issues that succulent owners face. Both can cause serious damage to your plants if not addressed promptly. Here’s how to recognize the signs of overwatering and underwatering, and what to do about it:
Signs of Overwatering
Yellowing Leaves: Overwatered succulents often have yellowing leaves, starting from the lower leaves. The leaves may also become soft, mushy, and translucent.
Leaf Drop: While underwatered succulents may drop their lower leaves, overwatered succulents may experience leaf drop as well. The difference is that the leaves of an overwatered succulent will feel soft and mushy, rather than dry and wrinkled.
Root Rot: One of the most serious consequences of overwatering is root rot. If the roots of your succulent are sitting in waterlogged soil for too long, they may begin to rot, which can eventually kill the plant. Signs of root rot include a foul smell, black or brown roots, and the plant becoming unstable or wobbly in its pot.
Swollen Stems and Leaves: Overwatered succulents may have swollen stems and leaves, which can cause the plant to appear bloated or waterlogged. This is a sign that the plant is taking in more water than it needs.
How to Fix Overwatering
If you suspect that your succulent is overwatered, the first step is to stop watering it immediately. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. If the plant is showing signs of root rot, you may need to repot it in fresh, dry soil. Be sure to remove any rotten roots before repotting, and use a well-draining soil mix to prevent future issues.
Signs of Underwatering
Wrinkled or Shriveled Leaves: As mentioned earlier, wrinkled or shriveled leaves are a common sign that your succulent is not getting enough water. The plant may also appear wilted or shriveled overall.
Dry, Brittle Leaves: Underwatered succulents may have dry, brittle leaves that feel papery to the touch. The leaves may also develop brown or crispy edges.
Slow Growth: While succulents are naturally slow-growing, underwatered succulents may grow even more slowly or stop growing altogether. This is because the plant is not getting enough water to support new growth.
Pale or Discolored Leaves: Underwatered succulents may develop pale or discolored leaves, as the plant is not receiving enough water to maintain its vibrant color.
How to Fix Underwatering
If your succulent is underwatered, the best way to remedy the situation is to give it a deep watering. Water the plant thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes, and allow the soil to soak up as much water as it can. If the soil is extremely dry, you may need to water the plant a few times to rehydrate it fully. Be sure to adjust your watering schedule going forward to prevent the plant from drying out again.
Watering Succulents in Different Environments
Succulents can be grown in a variety of environments, from indoor windowsills to outdoor gardens. The environment in which your succulent is grown will have a significant impact on how often and how much you should water it.
Indoor Succulents
Indoor succulents typically require less water than outdoor succulents, as they are not exposed to the elements and their soil dries out more slowly. However, indoor environments can vary greatly in terms of temperature, humidity, and light levels, so it’s important to monitor your indoor succulents closely.
Light Levels: Succulents need bright, indirect light to thrive indoors. If your succulent is not receiving enough light, it may become leggy and weak, which can affect its water needs. Be sure to place your succulent in a spot where it can get plenty of light, such as a sunny windowsill.
Humidity: Indoor environments tend to be less humid than outdoor environments, especially in the winter when heating systems are running. Lower humidity can cause the soil to dry out more slowly, so you may need to water your indoor succulents less frequently during the winter months.
Temperature: Succulents prefer temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C and 27°C). If your indoor environment is cooler than this, the plant’s growth may slow down, and it will require less water.
Outdoor Succulents
Outdoor succulents are exposed to a wide range of environmental conditions, including temperature fluctuations, wind, and rainfall. As a result, they may need to be watered more or less frequently depending on the weather.
Sun Exposure: Succulents grown in full sun may need more frequent watering, as the soil will dry out more quickly. However, be careful not to overwater, as full sun can also cause the soil to heat up, which can exacerbate the effects of overwatering.
Rainfall: If your outdoor succulents are exposed to regular rainfall, you may need to water them less frequently or not at all. Be sure to monitor the soil moisture after a rainstorm and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Wind: Wind can cause the soil to dry out more quickly, so succulents in windy areas may need more frequent watering. However, wind can also help to prevent overwatering by drying out the soil more quickly, so it’s important to strike a balance.
Common Watering Mistakes to Avoid
Watering succulents can be tricky, especially for beginners. Here are some common watering mistakes to avoid:
Watering Too Frequently: Overwatering is the most common mistake that succulent owners make. Remember that succulents prefer to dry out completely between waterings, so it’s important not to water them too frequently.
Using the Wrong Soil: Succulents need well-draining soil to thrive. If your soil retains too much moisture, it can lead to root rot and other issues. Be sure to use a soil mix specifically designed for succulents and cacti, or create your own by mixing potting soil with sand or perlite.
Not Using a Pot with Drainage Holes: Succulents should always be planted in pots with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. If your pot doesn’t have drainage holes, the water may accumulate at the bottom, leading to root rot.
Watering the Leaves: Succulents don’t like to have water sitting on their leaves, as this can lead to rot or fungal infections. Be sure to water the soil directly at the base of the plant, rather than pouring water over the leaves.
Ignoring the Season: Succulents have different water needs depending on the season. Be sure to adjust your watering schedule according to the time of year, watering more frequently during the growing season and less frequently during the dormant season.
Conclusion
Watering succulents may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice and observation, you can master the art of succulent care. The key is to remember that succulents prefer to dry out completely between waterings and that their water needs will vary depending on factors like the type of succulent, the climate, and the growing environment. By paying attension to the signs your succulent is giving you and adjusting your watering routine accordingly, you can keep your plants healthy, vibrant, and thriving for years to come.
