Succulents are plants adapted to arid conditions, storing water in specialized tissues to endure long periods of drought. This adaptation means they do not require frequent watering; in fact, overwatering is the most common cause of root rot and death for indoor succulents. Because water needs fluctuate dramatically based on the environment, there is no fixed schedule. Timing is determined by observing the dryness of the soil and the plant’s physiological condition.
Determining When to Water Based on Soil
The core principle for watering succulents is the “soak and dry” method, mimicking their natural habitat of infrequent, heavy rains followed by long dry spells. The soil must be completely dry before water is applied again. Watering saturated soil leads to root rot.
To determine soil dryness, use the finger test: insert a finger one to two inches deep into the potting mix. If any dampness is felt, delay watering. For smaller pots, insert a wooden skewer down to the bottom; if soil clings to the wood or feels cool upon removal, the medium is still too wet.
The time between watering varies significantly, from one week in hot, bright conditions to over a month in cooler settings. During the active growing season (typically spring and fall), the soil dries faster, requiring more frequent checks. Waiting until the soil is bone dry is the surest way to prevent overwatering.
Environmental Factors That Alter Frequency
A fixed watering schedule is impractical because environmental conditions heavily influence water evaporation and plant usage.
Light and Temperature
High light levels, such as those from a south-facing window, increase photosynthesis and transpiration, causing the plant to use water more quickly. Conversely, low-light environments mean the plant consumes water slower, and the soil remains wet longer. Warmer air also increases the rate of evaporation from the soil surface. Succulents near a heat vent or in a warm room will need water more frequently than those kept in cooler areas.
Humidity and Pot Material
High ambient humidity slows the rate at which moisture leaves the potting mix, reducing watering frequency. Pot material also impacts drying time. Porous materials, such as unglazed terracotta, allow water to evaporate through the sides of the pot. Glazed ceramic or plastic pots retain moisture longer, requiring less frequent watering.
Seasonal Dormancy
Seasonal shifts change the plant’s needs. Many succulents enter a period of dormancy in the winter when temperatures drop, drastically reducing water uptake. During winter dormancy, watering should be dramatically reduced, often to once a month or less, to prevent rot.
Proper Watering Application and Drainage
Once the soil is confirmed to be completely dry, the method of water application is designed to mimic a heavy downpour. Water should be applied thoroughly and slowly until it flows freely out of the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot. This deep saturation ensures that the entire root system is hydrated and encourages the development of strong, deep roots.
Shallow, frequent watering is detrimental because it only moistens the top layers of the soil, leading to the development of weak, shallow roots. Do not allow the pot to sit in a saucer of drained water, as the roots should not remain submerged for extended periods. Bottom watering is an alternative technique where the pot is placed in a shallow tray of water, allowing the soil to wick moisture up through the drainage hole until the surface soil becomes moist.
The use of an appropriate growing medium is fundamental to proper watering. Succulents require a highly porous, fast-draining soil mix, often achieved by amending standard potting soil with inorganic materials like perlite, pumice, or grit. This specialized mix ensures that excess water drains out quickly, preventing the roots from sitting in stagnant moisture. A container must have a functional drainage hole for successful indoor succulent care.
Identifying Signs of Overwatering or Underwatering
Visual cues from the plant itself serve as a guide for an imbalanced watering routine.
Overwatering Symptoms
An overwatered succulent typically displays leaves that are mushy, soft, and translucent, often turning yellow or black as the tissue breaks down. These leaves will often fall off very easily, indicating the cells have burst from excessive water absorption. Advanced signs of overwatering include black spots or rot appearing on the stem or base of the plant.
Underwatering Symptoms
An underwatered succulent will show signs of dehydration as it draws on its stored reserves. The leaves will appear shriveled, wrinkled, or deflated, losing their plumpness and firmness. These leaves often feel dry and brittle to the touch. The plant may also develop aerial roots, a sign it is attempting to absorb moisture from the surrounding air. Observing these distinct symptoms is the final step in adjusting the watering frequency to suit the plant’s actual needs.