Succulents are captivating plants, prized for their unique shapes and ability to withstand periods of drought. Their thick, fleshy leaves and stems function as natural reservoirs, allowing them to store water efficiently for survival in arid environments. The primary challenge for any succulent owner is navigating the delicate balance of hydration. Overwatering is the single most common mistake, leading to root rot and eventual plant failure. Understanding a succulent’s natural history—periods of intense, sporadic rainfall followed by long dry spells—provides the foundation for proper care.
The Golden Rule of Watering: Waiting for Soil to Dry
The most important concept in succulent care is the “soak and dry” philosophy, which governs the frequency and timing of watering. Succulents should never be watered on a fixed schedule because their moisture needs fluctuate based on environment and season. The correct time to water is determined solely by the condition of the soil, which must be completely dry before rehydration.
To accurately gauge soil moisture, a simple method is to insert your finger about two inches deep into the soil. If the soil at this depth feels even slightly cool or damp, you must wait longer before watering. A more precise tool is a moisture meter or a wooden chopstick, which can be pushed to the bottom of the pot; if it comes out clean and dry, it is time to water. Even if the topsoil appears bone-dry, the interior of the pot may still hold enough moisture to cause root damage if you water prematurely.
The Deep Soak Technique: How Much Water to Use
Once the soil is confirmed to be completely dry, the next step is to apply the “deep soak” technique. The goal is to drench the soil thoroughly until water flows freely out of the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot. This complete saturation ensures that the entire root system receives sufficient hydration, which is essential for healthy growth.
A deep soak is superior to light surface watering or misting, which should be avoided entirely. Shallow watering only encourages the plant to develop weak, shallow roots near the surface, leaving it vulnerable to drought. After the deep soak is complete, ensure the plant is not left sitting in the drained water. Any water collected in the saucer or catch tray should be discarded within 30 minutes to prevent the roots from remaining in standing moisture, which is the direct cause of root rot.
Adjusting Watering Schedules for Seasonal Changes
A succulent’s watering requirements change significantly throughout the year, largely due to shifts in temperature and light that trigger periods of active growth or dormancy. Most common succulents, known as “summer growers,” are active during the warmer months of spring and summer, requiring more frequent watering. During the summer, watering may occur every one to two weeks, depending on the heat and light intensity.
When the plant enters its dormancy period in the cooler months of fall and winter, its metabolic activity slows down dramatically to conserve energy. This reduced activity means the plant uses far less water, and the time between waterings must be extended considerably. During winter dormancy, checking the soil every four to six weeks is often sufficient, and some species may require little to no water.
Environmental factors also influence the speed of soil drying, impacting the watering schedule. Succulents receiving intense, direct light will deplete their water stores more quickly than those in lower light conditions. Furthermore, the potting material plays a role, as porous terracotta pots allow water to evaporate through their walls, drying the soil faster than non-porous plastic or glazed ceramic containers.
Troubleshooting: Recognizing Symptoms of Incorrect Watering
Visual cues from the leaves provide the most reliable indicators of whether a plant is receiving too much or too little water. An overwatered succulent will display leaves that appear swollen, soft, and mushy, often turning a translucent yellow color. This happens because the plant cells become overfilled with water, sometimes to the point of bursting, and the leaves may fall off with only a slight touch.
Conversely, a succulent suffering from underwatering will show leaves that are shriveled, wrinkled, and deflated, losing their characteristic plumpness. The leaves may also develop brown, dry tips or edges as the plant uses its stored reserves and begins to dehydrate. The shriveling from thirst is generally reversible with a thorough deep soak, while the mushy, translucent decay resulting from overwatering is often a sign of fatal root rot.