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Succulents are unique indoor plants with a distinct beauty, requiring minimal care. But knowing how to water them properly is still crucial. Especially during their early stages, when they are young, it's essential to water them correctly and consistently.
Steps
Watering Young Succulent Plants
Lightly mist the plant every 2-4 days. While it is usually recommended to wait 2-4 days between misting, each succulent may have different needs. If unsure how often to mist, follow the general rule: wait until the soil dries before continuing to mist again.
Set a watering schedule and stick to it. When your succulent is still young, it's essential to follow a consistent misting schedule for the plant.
Watering Mature Succulent Plants
Use a watering can to thoroughly water the soil. This method helps promote healthy root development in the plant.
Wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. There are no specific guidelines for the frequency of watering mature succulents. It depends on the species, the soil, the humidity of the environment, and other factors. Generally, you should water more during the summer when the plant is actively growing, and less in winter when the plant enters a nearly dormant stage with shorter daylight hours.
Chai Saechao
Founder of Plant Therapy
Founder of Plant Therapy
Avoid overwatering. Chai Saechao, the founder and owner of Plant Therapy, states: "Depending on the size of the pot, you should water succulents once every 2 weeks. For larger plants, you can water them every 3-4 weeks. With succulents, it's always better to underwater than to overwater. Overwatering can cause the plant to suffocate, but if underwatered, the plant can quickly recover once it receives water."
Occasionally skip watering for a few days to encourage root growth. Sometimes, not watering for 1-2 days after the soil dries can be beneficial for the plant to develop better roots. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to stick to a fixed watering schedule for mature succulents, though a general schedule is still helpful.
Rescuing a Dehydrated Succulent
Recognize the signs of water deficiency in your plant. Your succulent may be lacking water if:
- the leaves become dry and brittle
- the whole plant shrivels up (by this point, recovery may be difficult)
- many leaves have shriveled tips
Lightly mist the plant for 1-5 days. This step will help the plant transition back to its regular watering routine. Watering the plant too much after a prolonged period of drought can harm it.
Gradually increase the amount of water. Once the plant has adjusted to the changes, you can slowly return to your normal watering schedule. Afterward, you can water the plant with a watering can, and it should be back to normal within 1-3 weeks!
Advice
- Plant succulents in pots with drainage holes and soil with good drainage. If succulents live in overly damp soil, they may suffer from mold and other diseases.
- The frequency of watering succulents may vary depending on the environment. The hotter the environment, the more often you need to water. The higher the humidity, the less frequently you need to water.
Warnings
- It's better to underwater than overwater. Succulents store water in their leaves, so daily watering is not necessary. If you're unsure, wait an additional 1-2 days before watering again.
- Be cautious of root rot, a disease that attacks the root system of plants growing in overly damp or constantly wet soil.
Things You Will Need
- small watering can
- spray bottle or mister
- planter with drainage holes
- well-draining soil (soil that does not retain water)
