Are You Making These 5 -Related Mistakes?

Top 5 Mistakes in Taking Care of Succulents (And How to Fix Them)

Succulents are often regarded as some of the easiest plants to care for. However, even the hardiest plants can suffer if they aren’t given the right conditions. If your succulents aren’t thriving, don’t worry—you may just be making some common mistakes. Let’s dive into the top five mistakes gardeners make with succulents and how to fix them to ensure your plants stay vibrant and healthy.

1. Overwatering

The Mistake: Succulents are drought-tolerant plants that store water in their thick leaves and stems. Overwatering is the most common cause of death for succulents. It leads to root rot, which can kill the plant quickly.

The Fix: Succulents only need to be watered when the soil is completely dry. This can mean watering every 1-2 weeks, depending on your environment. Make sure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape. When you do water, soak the soil thoroughly, but let it dry out between waterings.

2. Not Enough Sunlight

The Mistake: Succulents need a lot of sunlight to thrive. Keeping them in low-light areas can cause them to stretch out in search of light, leading to a leggy, weak appearance.

The Fix: Place your succulents in a bright, sunny spot where they get at least 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight a day. If you notice your plant leaning toward the light, rotate the pot every few days to ensure even exposure. If natural light is limited, consider using a grow light to supplement.

3. Using the Wrong Soil

The Mistake: Planting succulents in regular potting soil can trap moisture, leading to root rot and poor drainage.

The Fix: Succulents need well-draining soil to prevent root issues. Use a cactus or succulent-specific soil mix, or create your own by adding sand or perlite to regular potting soil. The key is a fast-draining mix that mimics the natural arid environments succulents are accustomed to.

4. Planting in Pots Without Drainage

The Mistake: While decorative pots without drainage holes may look appealing, they can be a death sentence for succulents. Without proper drainage, excess water collects at the bottom, causing root rot.

The Fix: Always use pots with drainage holes. If you absolutely must use a pot without holes, try to water very sparingly and consider using a layer of pebbles at the bottom of the pot to promote airflow and drainage. However, pots with drainage are always a safer bet.

5. Neglecting Temperature Needs

The Mistake: Succulents are sensitive to extreme temperatures. While they love warmth, extreme cold can kill them, and too much direct heat can cause sunburn.

The Fix: Keep succulents in a moderate temperature range, ideally between 60°F and 80°F (16°C to 27°C). If you live in a cooler climate, bring outdoor succulents inside before temperatures drop below freezing. Likewise, avoid placing them directly in harsh midday sun, which can scorch their leaves.

Bonus Tips for Thriving Succulents:

• Fertilize Sparingly: Succulents don’t need much fertilizer, but feeding them with a diluted, low-nitrogen fertilizer once in the growing season (spring and summer) can promote healthy growth.
• Watch for Pests: While pests are rare, mealybugs and other insects can infest succulents. Keep an eye on your plants and treat with insecticidal soap if necessary.

By avoiding these common mistakes and following proper succulent care, your plants will thrive and remain beautiful for years to come! Need a new planter for your succulents? Check out Printhousedesign1 on Etsy for one of a kind 3d printed planters! http://www.printhousedesign.com