Succulents store water in their fleshy leaves, stems, or roots, allowing them to survive long periods of drought. This adaptation makes them drought-tolerant plants. Applying indoor watering habits to outdoor succulents is a common mistake, as outdoor environments introduce complex variables like sun exposure, heat, and humidity that dramatically change the required frequency. Determining the correct watering schedule is not about following a fixed calendar date but rather an ongoing assessment of the plant’s immediate environment and direct observation.
How to Check and Apply Water
The primary rule for watering any succulent is to wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. To check for dryness, gardeners should use the “Finger Test,” inserting a finger about one to two inches deep into the soil. If the soil at that depth feels cool or damp, the plant does not need water yet, regardless of how many days have passed since the last application. The soil must be allowed to dry out fully to prevent the onset of root rot, which is the most common cause of death for these plants.
Once the soil is confirmed to be dry, the method of application should follow the “Deep Soak” rule, mimicking a heavy desert rainfall. Water thoroughly until the excess moisture begins to flow freely out of the container’s drainage holes. This practice ensures that all the roots are fully saturated, promoting a strong and expansive root system. Avoid misting or light surface watering, as this only encourages shallow, weak root growth.
The timing of watering is important for plant health. It is best to water early in the morning before the peak heat arrives. Morning watering allows the foliage to dry completely before nightfall, minimizing the risk of fungal diseases.
Outdoor Factors Influencing Watering Schedule
The frequency of watering is highly dependent on the local climate and specific microenvironment where the succulent is placed. High temperatures and intense, direct sunlight significantly increase the rate of water evaporation from the soil. During the active growing season of spring and summer, plants in full sun may need to be watered as frequently as every seven to ten days, especially if temperatures consistently exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This contrasts sharply with plants in shadier spots, which may need water only half as often.
Seasonal changes are a major determinant of watering needs, as most succulents have distinct growth and dormancy periods. Spring and summer are seasons of active growth, requiring the most frequent watering to support new development. Conversely, many succulents enter dormancy during colder winter months. During this period, water needs are minimal, and watering should be reduced to as little as once per month or stopped entirely if temperatures are near freezing.
Ambient humidity also plays a large role in how quickly the soil dries out and should be accounted for. In climates with high humidity, the soil will retain moisture for much longer than in arid environments, naturally slowing down the watering schedule. Natural rainfall is an obvious factor, but it is important to note that a brief, heavy shower may not fully saturate the soil in dense containers. Gardeners should still perform the finger test to ensure the rainfall has penetrated deep enough to reach the root zone.
The physical size and material of the container directly impact the soil’s drying time. Smaller pots contain a limited volume of soil, which dries out much faster than the soil in large planters or in-ground beds. Small containers, such as those under six inches, might require water every week in summer heat, while large containers may only need it every two weeks. Additionally, terracotta or unglazed ceramic pots wick away moisture through their porous walls, causing the soil to dry faster than glazed plastic or ceramic containers.
Soil and Container Requirements for Outdoor Succulents
The success of an outdoor watering schedule relies on providing the correct foundational medium. Succulents thrive in environments with rapid drainage, requiring a soil mix that does not hold water for long periods. The soil should be gritty and porous, often achieved by mixing standard potting soil with coarse materials like perlite, pumice, or lava rock. This composition ensures that water moves quickly past the roots, preventing waterlogging.
For containers, the presence of adequate drainage holes is a non-negotiable requirement for preventing root rot. Water must be able to escape freely from the bottom of the pot after a deep soak. Containers placed outdoors should also be slightly elevated to ensure the drainage holes do not become blocked by the ground or standing water. In-ground plantings are slightly more forgiving, but if the native soil is heavy clay, it must be amended with a large quantity of coarse sand or gravel to improve permeability before planting.