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Diving headfirst into the world of succulents, many plant enthusiasts might find themselves floundering amidst a mirage of care techniques. This delicate plant species requires a precise balance of conditions to thrive; succulent care mistakes can often cause the plant to deteriorate and ultimately, perish. Here’s how to avoid the most common ones.
Incorrect Watering
Misjudged watering is the number one succulent killer. Overwatering is surprisingly a more common mistake than underwatering. Succulents are desert plants; they survive in arid conditions and can go quite long periods without water. Their leaves store water, which they use during drought.
Overwatering leads to root rot, a cardinal sin of succulent care. Once begun, it’s almost impossible to reverse. Conversely, underwatering will cause the succulent to dry out, leading to wilting and eventual death. Avoid this by establishing a consistent watering routine, inspecting the soil. If the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water.
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Poor Light Conditions
Succulent plants thrive in bright, indirect light. A common misconception is that since they are desert plants, they need intense direct sunlight. On the contrary, prolonged exposure to intense light can lead to sunburn, causing permanent damage to the plant. At the same time, insufficient light will prevent the plant from photosynthesizing adequately, leading to a condition known as etiolation. Ensure you place your succulent in a location that exposes it to bright but diffused light.
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Inappropriate Potting Mix
Succulents need a different kind of soil to most houseplants due to their unique origin and nature. Regular soil retains too much water, which can lead to root rot. What succulents need is a well-draining soil mix. These are typically sold as “cactus” or “succulent” mixes and comprise a blend of organic matter and mineral grit such as coarse sand, perlite, or pumice.
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Incorrect Temperature and Humidity
Succulents prefer warmer temperatures between 70-80°F during the day and 50-55°F at night. Dramatic temperature fluctuations can damage them. Remember, succulents originate from the desert, where humidity levels are relatively low. High humidity can cause the plants to rot. Use a humidity meter to help ensure your plant is not subjected to this common error.
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Lack of Proper Ventilation
Succulents need good air movement to stave off fungal diseases. Placing them in a closed environment with limited air circulation increases the chance of fungal and pest infestations. By providing these plants with a well-ventilated environment, you can markedly decrease these risks.
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Fertilizer Misuse
While succulents can benefit from occasional feedings, over-fertilization can lead to problems. It’s best to fertilize sparingly and use a balanced all-purpose plant food at half strength. Doing this during the growing season (late Winter to late Summer) will help your succulents look their best.
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Neglecting to Re-pot
Resist the temptation to leave your succulent in the same pot it came in. Regularly repotting creates an opportunity for you to assess its health — it allows for the removal of dead leaves and root rot, prevention of overcrowding, and promotion of growth with fresh soil.
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By understanding and avoiding these common succulent care mistakes, you increase the longevity and aesthetics of this resilient but sometimes temperamental plant species.
