Succulents are popular plants prized for their unique forms and drought tolerance. These plants store water in their fleshy leaves and stems, requiring a specialized watering approach to thrive indoors. Traditional top-down watering can lead to shallow root growth and moisture issues. The preferred technique, often called “soaking” or bottom watering, ensures the plant receives a deep, thorough drink that mimics the infrequent, heavy rains of its native arid environments.
The Rationale Behind Bottom Soaking
Bottom soaking encourages the development of a robust and deep root system. When water is absorbed from the base of the pot, the roots naturally grow downward to access the moisture, establishing stronger anchors and improving the plant’s health. This process prevents the formation of shallow roots that occur with light top watering.
Another benefit is the uniform saturation of the potting mix, which is important for the gritty, fast-draining soils succulents require. Pouring water from above can cause water to channel quickly down the sides, leaving the central root ball dry. Bottom watering allows the soil to wick water upward through capillary action, ensuring the entire substrate is moistened. This method also avoids wetting the leaves and the plant’s crown, which can trap moisture and lead to fungal diseases or rot.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Soak Succulents
To begin the bottom soaking process, select a clean basin, tray, or container wide enough to hold the pot and retain water. The water should be at room temperature to prevent shocking the roots. The pot must have at least one drainage hole at the bottom, as this is the entry point for the water.
Fill the container with water to a depth that reaches approximately one-quarter to one-third of the way up the side of the pot. Carefully place the potted plant into the water, ensuring the drainage holes are fully submerged. The soil will immediately absorb the water through the holes, drawing moisture up into the root zone.
Determining the Optimal Soaking Duration
The duration of the soak is determined by visual saturation cues, not a fixed time limit. The soak is complete when the top surface of the soil becomes moist, indicating the water has wicked all the way through the potting medium. This visual confirmation ensures the entire root system is saturated.
Monitoring the weight of the pot is another reliable indicator; a fully saturated pot will feel heavier than a dry one. The actual time varies widely, often ranging from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on pot size and soil composition. Once the soil surface is wet, immediately remove the pot from the water and place it on a rack or elevated surface to allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Frequency and Seasonal Adjustments
The core principle for watering succulents is the “drench and drought” method: only soak the plant once the soil has dried out completely. This mimics the plant’s natural arid habitat and prevents root rot. Before watering, check the soil deep down, not just the surface, to confirm there is no remaining moisture.
The frequency of soaking must be adjusted based on the season and the succulent’s growth cycle. During the active growing period of spring and summer, more frequent watering is necessary, typically every one to three weeks. Most succulents enter semi-dormancy in the fall and winter, requiring a reduction in water, often to once a month or less. Physical signs of thirst, such as wrinkled or shriveled leaves, signal that the plant’s stored water reserves are low and it is time for a deep soak.