Succulents are often considered easy-care plants, mainly because of their ability to tolerate long periods of drought. However, proper watering management is essential to their survival and health. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you water your succulents and succulents properly.
Understanding the water requirements of succulents
Succulents are adapted to arid environments and have developed mechanisms to store water in their leaves, stems or roots. It is therefore preferable to water them less frequently than to over-water them. However, like all plants, they will eventually die if they don’t receive enough water.
My experiences with watering succulents
When I first started growing succulents, watering was a real headache. Even with experience, mistakes can happen.
For example, I placed my little succulents planted in glasses in the bathroom to take advantage of the light, without thinking about the excessive humidity near the shower. The result: too much water and suffering plants. Once mold appears, it’s often too late to save them.
How to properly water succulents and succulent plants
Here are a few practical tips for watering your succulents:
- Feel the leaves: If the leaf is firm, there’s no need to water. If soft, it’s time to add water.
- Check the soil: Make sure the soil is dry before watering, as a soft leaf can also indicate excess water.
- Basin plants: Submerge the plant in a bowl of water until the soil is moist, but don’t leave the plant in the water for more than 30 minutes.
- Winter watch: Dry air from heating can dry out plants faster than you think. Be on the lookout.
- A pot for every plant: Each plant has specific needs. Use an individual pot for each plant.
Three golden rules for watering succulents
- Using a pot with a drainage hole: If you use a pot without a drainage hole, be extremely careful. One trick is to put the plant in a pierced plastic pot, then place it in a decorative planter.
- Use a draining substrate: Good drainage is very important. Use clay balls or gravel at the bottom of the pot, and a mixture of potting soil with sand or small gravel for planting.
- Don’t spray: Unlike orchids, succulents need to be watered directly at root level. Use a watering can with a long spout for maximum precision, or baste.
When should you water your succulents?
Succulents should only be watered when the soil is completely dry. After planting, wait for the soil to dry before watering again. Touch the soil to check its moisture content and do not water if you have any doubts. Watering frequency will depend on the season, exposure to sunlight and humidity levels.
Cacti and their particular need for water
To encourage cactus flowering, don’t water them in winter (October to April) and leave them to rest in a cool, light room. In spring and summer, water them as you would other succulents.
Recognizing a thirsty plant
Signs of thirst include yellow, dry leaves, or soft, drying leaves. However, these symptoms can also be caused by a lack of light or excess humidity. Place the plant in full light and make sure the soil is dry before resuming watering.
Additional tips
For plants such as cacti and haworthias, check soil humidity by inserting a toothpick or small wooden stick. Beware of plants bought from garden centers, which are often planted in substrates unsuitable for life at home. Re-pot them quickly to keep them healthy.
For more details on how to care for succulents and succulent plants, check out my complete guide and discover all my articles on the subject.
