Avoid These 9 Common Mistakes to Ensure Your Succulents Survive and Thrive!
Succulents are one of the most popular houseplants, known for their striking appearance, drought resistance, and low-maintenance care requirements. However, despite their reputation for being easy to grow, many plant owners unintentionally make mistakes that can lead to unhealthy, struggling, or even dying succulents.
Overwatering, insufficient light, the wrong soil mix, and other missteps can cause succulents to become weak, leggy, or prone to disease. The good news is that these issues are preventable. By understanding common succulent care mistakes you can ensure your plants remain vibrant and thriving.
Overwatering: the number one killer of succulents
Why it’s a problem
Overwatering is by far the most common mistake made by succulent owners. Unlike most houseplants, succulents store water in their thick leaves and stems, which allows them to survive in arid conditions. When given too much water, their roots become waterlogged, leading to rot and eventual plant death.
Signs of overwatering
- Leaves appear mushy, translucent, or start turning yellow
- Blackened, soft stems or roots
- Leaves falling off easily, even with minimal touch
How to avoid overwatering
The best way to prevent overwatering is to follow the soak and dry method. This involves thoroughly watering your succulent until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then allowing the soil to dry out completely before the next watering.
Additionally, always plant succulents in pots with drainage holes to prevent excess water from sitting at the bottom. During winter or cooler months, reduce the watering frequency, as most succulents enter dormancy and require less moisture.
Using the wrong soil
Why it’s a problem
Succulents require well-draining soil to mimic the dry, rocky environments they originate from. Standard potting soil retains too much moisture, which can suffocate roots and encourage rot.
How to choose the right soil
To give your succulents the best chance of survival, use a cactus or succulent potting mix. These specially formulated soils have better drainage and aeration compared to regular potting soil.
For an even more effective mix, consider adding perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to improve drainage. If you’re repotting a succulent, always shake off the old soil from the roots to prevent moisture retention from the previous pot.
Planting in pots without drainage holes
Why it’s a problem
Pots without drainage holes may look stylish, but they pose a significant risk to succulents. When water has nowhere to escape, it accumulates at the bottom of the pot, leading to waterlogged roots and potential rot.
How to solve this issue
The best solution is to always choose pots with drainage holes. If you love the look of a decorative pot without holes, you can place a drainage-friendly nursery pot inside and remove it for watering.
If you must use a pot without drainage, add a layer of gravel or activated charcoal at the bottom to help absorb excess moisture. However, this is not a foolproof solution, so be cautious with watering.
Not providing enough sunlight
Why it’s a problem
Succulents thrive in bright light, and a lack of sunlight can cause etiolation, a condition where the plant stretches out, becomes weak, and loses its vibrant color.
How to ensure adequate light
- Place succulents near a south- or east-facing window where they receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily
- If natural light is insufficient, use a grow light to supplement sunlight
- Rotate your plant every few weeks to ensure even growth and prevent one-sided stretching
Exposing succulents to too much direct sunlight
Why it’s a problem
While succulents love sunlight, excessive exposure—especially in extremely hot conditions—can cause sunburn. This results in dry, brown patches on leaves, which can permanently damage the plant.
How to protect succulents from sun damage
If you’re moving a succulent outdoors, acclimate it gradually to avoid shock. Start with partial shade and increase sun exposure over a week or two. During heatwaves, provide shade during peak afternoon hours or move the plant to a less intense location.
Ignoring seasonal changes in succulent care
Why it’s a problem
Succulents don’t have the same growth cycle year-round. Many species enter dormancy in winter, meaning they require less water and nutrients. Treating them the same in all seasons can lead to overwatering in the colder months.
How to adjust care seasonally
- Spring and summer: Water regularly and fertilize lightly, as this is the active growing season
- Fall and winter: Reduce watering significantly, as growth slows or stops altogether
- Research the specific dormancy cycles of your succulent species, as some, like Aeoniums, grow in winter instead
Overcrowding succulents in arrangements
Why it’s a problem
Succulent arrangements may look beautiful, but planting too many together can limit airflow, trap moisture, and create conditions for rot or disease.
How to prevent overcrowding
Space succulents at least an inch apart to allow for proper airflow. If a planter becomes too dense, separate and repot individual plants to give them room to grow.
Not pruning or removing dead leaves
Why it’s a problem
Dead leaves can collect moisture, which attracts pests like fungus gnats and mealybugs. They can also block air circulation, leading to mold or bacterial issues.
How to keep succulents tidy and healthy
- Regularly remove dried or dead leaves from the base of the plant
- If your succulent becomes leggy, trim stretched-out stems and replant cuttings
- Prune excessive growth to encourage a compact and full shape
Neglecting pest control
Why it’s a problem
Although succulents are hardy, they can still be affected by pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Left untreated, pests can weaken the plant and spread to others.
How to prevent and treat pests
- Inspect plants regularly for signs of pests (white cottony spots, webbing, or sticky residue)
- Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap
- Always quarantine new plants before adding them to your collection to prevent spreading pests
Conclusion
By mastering watering techniques, choosing the right soil, providing proper lighting, and staying on top of seasonal changes, you can ensure your succulents stay healthy and beautiful. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced plant owner, these tips will help you cultivate a thriving succulent collection.