Succulents are beloved for their hardy nature, striking shapes, and ability to brighten up any space. They’re often considered “low-maintenance” plants, but that doesn’t mean they’re foolproof. Despite their reputation for resilience, succulents can suffer or even die if their basic care needs aren’t met. Overwatering, poor light, and other common mistakes can take a toll on these desert dwellers, leaving you with droopy, discolored, or rotting plants.
If you’ve noticed that your succulents don’t look as vibrant or healthy as they once did, it might be time to reassess your care routine. In this article, we’ll explore seven common mistakes that could be slowly killing your succulents—and how to fix them. By avoiding these pitfalls, you can help your succulents thrive for years to come.
Overwatering
One of the most common mistakes succulent owners make is overwatering. While succulents do need water, their roots are highly sensitive to excess moisture, which can lead to root rot. Unlike many houseplants, succulents store water in their leaves and stems, meaning they don’t need to be watered as often. If your succulent’s leaves are mushy or translucent, it’s likely a victim of overwatering.
To prevent this, water your succulents only when the soil is completely dry—typically every 1-2 weeks, depending on your environment. Always use pots with drainage holes and well-draining soil to allow excess water to escape. Bottom watering, where the pot sits in water for a short time, is another method that can prevent over-saturation.
Underwatering
On the flip side, underwatering can also harm your succulents. While they’re drought-tolerant, they still require occasional hydration to stay healthy. Signs of underwatering include shriveled or wrinkled leaves and a generally lifeless appearance. Succulents store water, but if they go too long without it, their reserves will deplete, causing stress to the plant.
To avoid underwatering, establish a consistent watering routine and monitor the condition of your plant’s leaves. While it’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering, completely neglecting to water your succulents will eventually kill them.
Poor Lighting
Succulents thrive in bright, indirect light, and insufficient lighting is a common reason they fail to flourish. If your succulent is stretching or leaning toward the light, it’s a sign that it’s not getting enough sun. Without adequate light, the plant may become weak, pale, or leggy.
To remedy this, place your succulents in a sunny spot, such as a south-facing window, where they can receive at least 6 hours of light daily. For indoor succulents in dimly lit homes, consider using a grow light to supplement their lighting needs. Be careful not to expose them to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch their leaves.
Using the Wrong Soil
Succulents have specific soil requirements, and planting them in regular potting soil can be disastrous. Standard soils retain too much moisture, which can suffocate the roots and lead to rot. Without proper drainage, even infrequent watering can cause problems.
Opt for a well-draining cactus or succulent soil mix, which typically contains sand, perlite, or pumice to improve aeration and drainage. If you can’t find a specialized mix, you can amend regular potting soil by adding coarse sand or perlite to mimic desert-like conditions.
Ignoring Drainage Needs
Succulents can’t tolerate sitting in water, making proper drainage essential for their survival. Pots without drainage holes trap excess water, creating a soggy environment that encourages root rot and fungal growth. Even the most careful watering routine won’t save a succulent planted in a poorly draining container.
Always use pots with drainage holes, and avoid decorative pots that lack this feature unless you use them as outer containers. If you’re using a pot without drainage, add a thin layer of rocks at the bottom and water sparingly—but even this workaround isn’t foolproof.
Temperature Extremes
Succulents are accustomed to stable, warm climates, and exposure to temperature extremes can stress or kill them. Cold drafts, frost, or prolonged exposure to heat can all cause damage. Most succulents are not frost-tolerant, so they must be moved indoors or covered during freezing weather.
To keep your succulents healthy, maintain indoor temperatures between 60-80°F and protect them from cold windowsills or direct blasts of air from heaters or air conditioners. Outdoor succulents should be sheltered during extreme weather to prevent permanent damage.
Overcrowding
Succulents are slow growers, but overcrowding them in a single pot can lead to competition for resources like water, nutrients, and light. Over time, this can stunt their growth and leave them vulnerable to disease. Additionally, crowded conditions increase humidity levels, which succulents dislike.
To prevent overcrowding, give each succulent enough space to grow and spread. Repot them into individual containers or larger pots as they outgrow their current space. Regularly checking the roots and leaves for signs of crowding or disease can help you catch and address issues early.
Neglecting Pest Problems
Although succulents are relatively pest-resistant, they aren’t immune to infestations. Common pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale can sap your succulent’s health, causing discoloration, wilting, or sticky residue. Left untreated, these pests can kill your plant over time.
Inspect your succulents regularly for signs of pests, especially if they’ve been outdoors. If you spot an infestation, isolate the affected plant and treat it with insecticidal soap or a mixture of water and rubbing alcohol. Prompt action can save your succulent and prevent the pests from spreading to others.
By avoiding these seven common mistakes, you can ensure your succulents remain healthy and vibrant. With a little attention and care, these resilient plants will reward you with their beauty for years to come.
