Recognizing the Signs of a Dying Succulent
Before we dive into the rescue mission, it's essential to identify the signs of a dying succulent. Succulents are known for their hardiness, but they can still succumb to neglect, disease, or pests. Look out for these common signs:
Table of Contents
• Soft, mushy, or wrinkled leaves
• Yellowing or browning leaves
• Black spots or white powdery patches on the leaves
• Slow growth or no growth at all
• Stem or leaf rot
• Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, or scale
Diagnosing the Cause of the Problem
Once you've identified the signs of a dying succulent, it's crucial to diagnose the underlying cause. This will help you tailor your rescue efforts to address the root of the problem. Ask yourself:
• Has the succulent been overwatered or underwatered?
• Is the succulent exposed to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or drafts?
• Has the succulent been fertilized recently, and if so, was it overfertilized?
• Are there any signs of pests or diseases?
• Has the succulent outgrown its pot and needs repotting?
Watering and Humidity
Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes that can lead to a dying succulent. Succulents need infrequent but thorough watering. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water. Water your succulent:
• Sparingly during the winter months when it's dormant
• More frequently during the spring and summer when it's actively growing
• In the morning, so the pot has a chance to dry out slightly before nightfall
• Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent rot and fungal diseases
• Use room-temperature water to prevent shocking the roots
Light and Temperature
Succulents generally thrive in bright, indirect light. However, some species can tolerate direct sunlight, while others prefer shadier conditions. Make sure to:
• Place your succulent near a south-facing window or under grow lights
• Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day (usually between 11 am and 3 pm)
• Keep your succulent away from drafts and extreme temperatures (below 40°F or above 90°F)
Fertilization
Fertilizing your succulent can provide essential nutrients for healthy growth. However, overfertilization can be detrimental. Follow these guidelines:
• Fertilize your succulent during the growing season (spring and summer)
• Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (20-20-20)
• Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning the roots
• Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the succulent is dormant
Pest Control
Check your succulent regularly for signs of pests, such as:
• Mealybugs: white, cottony patches on the leaves or stems
• Spider mites: fine webbing on the leaves or stems
• Scale: small, brown, or white bumps on the leaves or stems
To control pests:
• Isolate the infested succulent to prevent the pests from spreading
• Spray the succulent with insecticidal soap or neem oil
• Wipe down the leaves and stems with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol
Pruning and Grooming
Pruning and grooming can help restore your succulent's health and encourage new growth. Remove:
• Dead or damaged leaves or stems to prevent the spread of disease
• Overgrown or leggy stems to maintain a bushy shape
• Any offsets or pups to propagate new succulents
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to prevent spreading disease.
Repotting and Soil
If your succulent has outgrown its pot or is showing signs of nutrient deficiency, it may be time to repot. Choose a pot that is:
• Only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent the soil from becoming too wet
• Well-draining to prevent waterlogged soil
• Filled with a high-quality, succulent-specific potting mix
• Sterilized to prevent the spread of disease
Conclusion
Saving a dying succulent requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn. By following these guidelines, you can identify the signs of a dying succulent, diagnose the underlying cause, and take corrective action. Remember to monitor your succulent's progress, and with time and care, it should recover and thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common signs of a dying succulent?
A dying succulent can exhibit a range of signs, including soft, mushy, or wrinkled leaves, stems that are brittle or broken, and a general lack of vibrancy or color. You may also notice black or brown spots, white powdery patches, or a foul odor emanating from the plant. If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to take action quickly to prevent further decline.
Why is my succulent dying?
There are many reasons why a succulent might be dying, including overwatering, underwatering, poor lighting, extreme temperatures, root bound, pests, or diseases. It's crucial to identify the underlying cause to take the appropriate corrective action.
Can I save a succulent that's been neglected for a long time?
While it's challenging to save a succulent that's been severely neglected, it's not impossible. Start by assessing the plant's condition, pruning any dead or damaged tissue, and adjusting its care routine accordingly. Be patient, as recovery may take time.
How often should I water my succulent?
The frequency of watering depends on the type of succulent, its size, and the climate you're in. As a general rule, water your succulent when the soil feels dry to the touch, usually every 7-10 days in the summer and less often in the winter.
What's the best way to water my succulent?
Water your succulent thoroughly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent rotting. Instead, water at the base of the plant, allowing excess water to drain away.
How much sunlight does my succulent need?
Most succulents require bright, indirect sunlight to photosynthesize. Placing them near a south-facing window or under grow lights can provide the necessary light. However, some species can tolerate low light conditions, so research the specific needs of your succulent.
What's the ideal temperature for my succulent?
Succulents generally prefer daytime temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and nighttime temperatures around 55-65°F (13-18°C). Some species, like aloe, can tolerate warmer temperatures, while others, like echeveria, prefer cooler temperatures.
How can I prevent overwatering?
To avoid overwatering, check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water. Also, make sure the pot has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.
What are some common pests that can harm my succulent?
Common pests that can infest succulents include mealybugs, spider mites, scale, and aphids. Inspect your plant regularly, and if you notice any pests, treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
How can I treat fungal infections in my succulent?
Fungal infections can be challenging to treat, but you can try removing affected areas, improving air circulation, and reducing moisture. Apply a fungicide specifically designed for cacti and succulents, and repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Can I propagate a dying succulent?
Yes, you can propagate a dying succulent by removing healthy offsets or leaf cuttings. Allow the cut ends to dry for a few days to form a callus before planting them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and warm until roots develop.
How long does it take for a succulent to recover from neglect?
The recovery time for a neglected succulent depends on the severity of the neglect and the plant's overall health. With proper care, a succulent can recover within a few weeks to a few months. Be patient, and don't rush the process.
What's the best soil for my succulent?
Choose a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents. Avoid using regular potting soil, as it can retain too much water and cause root rot.
Can I use tap water to water my succulent?
Tap water can contain chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, which can harm your succulent. If possible, use filtered or rainwater to water your plants.
How often should I fertilize my succulent?
Fertilize your succulent during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning the roots.
Can I repot my succulent in the same pot?
It's generally recommended to repot your succulent in a new pot with fresh soil to prevent the buildup of pathogens and pests. However, if the pot is clean and has good drainage, you can reuse it.
How can I prevent root bound in my succulent?
Root bound occurs when the roots outgrow the pot. Prevent this by repotting your succulent every 1-2 years, using a slightly larger pot, and pruning the roots to encourage new growth.
What's the best way to prune my succulent?
Prune your succulent to maintain shape, encourage new growth, and remove dead or damaged tissue. Use clean, sharp tools, and make cuts just above a leaf node or joint.
Can I grow succulents indoors?
Yes, succulents can thrive indoors, provided they receive sufficient light. Choose a species that tolerates low light conditions, and supplement with grow lights if necessary.
How can I protect my succulent from extreme temperatures?
Keep your succulent away from heating vents, fireplaces, and drafty windows. If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, bring your succulent indoors or protect it with a frost blanket.
What's the best way to handle succulent leaves that are falling off?
If leaves are falling off your succulent, it may be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or root bound. Inspect the plant, adjust its care routine accordingly, and remove any fallen leaves to prevent rotting.
Can I grow succulents in a terrarium?
Yes, succulents can thrive in a terrarium, but be cautious of overwatering. Choose a species that tolerates high humidity, and ensure the terrarium has good air circulation to prevent fungal infections.
How can I prevent my succulent from becoming leggy?
Leggy succulents can occur due to insufficient light. Provide your succulent with bright, indirect light, and prune it regularly to encourage bushy growth.
What's the best way to store succulent cuttings?
Store succulent cuttings in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight. Allow the cut ends to dry for a few days to form a callus before planting them in well-draining soil.
Indoor Plant Care A-Z
Adiantum Fragrans
Aechmea Blue Rain
Aechmea Fasciata
Aeschynanthus Marmoratus
Aeschynanthus Radicans Gesneriad
African Mask
African Spear
African Violet
Air Plant
Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia Araceae
Aloe
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera Barbadensis
Angel Wings Cactus
Anthurium Andraeanum
Anthurium Crystallinum
Arabian Coffee
Areca Palm
Aroid Palm
Arrowhead Ivy
Arum Lily
Asparagus Densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Asparagus fern
Asparagus Setaceus
Aspidistra Elatior
Asplenium Antiquum
Asplenium Nidus
Athyrium Filix-Femina
Austrailian Ivy Tree
Austrocephalocereus Dybowskii
Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Azalea Plant
Baby Doll Ti
Baby Rose
Baby Tears
Baby Toes
Baby's Tears
Bamboo Palm
Banana Palm
Banana Plant
Banana Tree
Barbados Aloe
Begoniaceae Maculata
Bengal Fig
Benjamin Tree
Benjamin's Fig
Beringin
Bilbo Cactus
Bird Of Paradise
Bird's Nest Fern
Bird's Tongue Flower
Birds Nest Fern
Blue Pothos
Blue Rain Bromeliad
Blue Rain Plant
Blue Sansevieria
Blue Torch Cactus
Bonsai Ficus
Boston Fern
Boston Fern
Boy Flower
Brighamia insignis
Bromeliad
Buddha's Hand
Bunny Cactus
Burrageara Orchid X Oncidium
Burro's Tail
Butterfly Palm
Cabbage on a Stick
Cabeça-branca
Cactus
Caladium Lindenii
Caladium Magnificum
Calathea
Calathea Marantaceae
Calla Lily
Cambria
Cambria Orchid
Canna Leaved Strelitzia
Cape Jasmine
Cape Primrose
Cast Iron Plant
Cathedral Cactus
Cathedral Plant
Cereus Peruvianus
Ceropegia Woodii
Ceropegia Woodii 'Marlies'
Chain of Hearts
Chain of Pearls
Chamaedorea Elegans
Chinese Ape
Chinese Money Plant
Chinese PLant
Chinese Taro
Chlorophytum Comosum
Christmas Cactus
Christmas Kalanchoe
Cladophora
Cladophora Ball
Climbing Asparagus
Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum
Coffea Rubiaceae Arabica
Coffee Bean
Coffee Plant
Common Purslane
Common Yucca
Cordyline Fruticosa
Corn Plant
Crab Cactus
Crane Flower
Crassula Arborescens
Crassula Hobbit
Crassula Ovata
Croton
Crystal Anthurium
Ctenanthe
Ctenanthe Pilosa Golden Mosaic
Curly Locks Cactus
Curtain Fig
Cycas Revoluta
Cylindrical Snake Plant
Date Palm
Day Flower
Delicious Monster
Devil's Ivy
Devil's Tongue
Devils Backbone
Dieffenbachia Araceae
Donkey's Tail
Dracaena
Dracaena Fragrans
Dracaena Fragrans Golden Coast
Dracaena Fragrans Janet Craig
Dracaena Fragrans Steudneri
Dracaena Magenta
Dracaena Marginata
Dracaena Sanderiana
Dragon Plant
Dragon Scale Alocasia
Dragon Tree
Dumb Cane
Dwarf Arrowhead Vine
Dypsis Lutescens Chrysalidocarpus
Easter Cactus
Elephant Bush
Elephant Ear
Elephant Yucca
Emerald Palm
English Ivy
Entangled Hearts
Epiphyllum Anguliger
Epiphyllum guatemalensis
Epipremnum Aureum
Epipremnum Aureum Neon
Epipremnum Pinnatum
Epipremnum Pinnatum Aureum
Eternity Plant
Euphorbia Enopla
Euphorbia Trigona
Euphorbia Trigona Rubra
Eves Pin Cactus
False African Violet
False Shamrock
Ficus Benghalensis 'Audrey'
Ficus Benjamina
Ficus Elastica
Ficus Elastica 'Ruby'
Ficus Ginseng
Ficus Microcarpa
Fiddle Leaf Fig
First Aid Plant
Fishbone Cactus
Five Holes Plant
Flaming Katy
Flaming Sword
Flamingo Flower
Flamingo Lily
Flamingo Plant
Florist Kalanchoe
Flowering Cactus
Freckle Face
Freckle Plant
French Peanut
Friendship Plant
Garden Ivy
Garden Rose
Gardenia Jasminoides
Giant Bird Of Paradise
Golden Cane
Golden Neon Pothos
Golden Pothos
Goldfish Plant
Guiana Chestnut
Guzmania
Guzmania Bromeliaceae
Happy Leaf Pothos
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hawaiian Ti Plant
Haworthia
Haworthia Rafiki
Heart Leaf
Hedera Helix
Hedera Helix Variagata
Hedera Hibernica
Heptapleurum Actinopyllum
Hobbit Jade
Horrida Plant
Horse's Tail
House Plant Cuttings For Propagation
Hoya Carnosa
Hurricane Plant
Hylotelephium Sieboldii
Hypoestes Phyllostachya
Inch Plant
Irish Ivy
Jade Plant
Jade Plant
Java Fig
Java Tree
Java Willow
Jelly Bean Plant
Jungle Boogie
Jungle Bush
Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
Kalanchoe Delagoensis x Daigremontiana
Kleinia stapeliiformis
Korean Rock Fern
Lace Fern
Laceleaf
Lady Fern
Lake Ball
Lamb's Tail
Lemon Geranium
Leopard Lily
Lipstick Plant
Little Hogweed
Love Plant
Lucky Bamboo
Madagascar Jasmine
Maidenhair Fern
Malabar Chestnut
Malayan Banyan
Maranta Kerchoveana
Maranta Leuconeura
Maranta Marisela
Mason Congo Sansevieria
Measles Plant
Medicinal Aloe
Medicine Plant
Mexican Breadfruit
Milk Barrel Cactus
Miltonia Orchid
Ming Aralia
Mini Philo
Mini Swiss Cheese Vine
Missionary Plant
Mistletoe Cactus
Money Plant
Money Tree
Monkey Jars
Monstera
Monstera Adansonii
Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Minima
Moss Ball
Moss Rose
Moth Orchid
Mother In Law's Tongue
Mother Of Thousands
Musa
Musa Basjoo Tropicana
N'Joy Pothos
Nemantanthus Gregarius
Nematanthus gregarious
Neon Devil's Ivy
Neon Pothos
Nepenthes Alata
Nephrolepis Exaltata
Never Never Plant
Night Blooming Cactus
Octopus Tree
Odontoglossum Orchid
Oilcloth Flower
Old Man Cactus
Oncidium Orchid
Opuntia Microdaisy Albata
Orchidaceae Phalaenopsis
Oxalis Triangularis
Pachira Aquatica
Pancake Plant
Pansy Orchid
Parasol Plant
Parlor Palm
Parlour Palm
Pass-it-along Plant
Passiflora Caerulea
Passionflower
Patio Rose
Peace Lily
Peace Lily
Peacock Plant
Pearl and Star Plant
Pelargonium Zonal
Peperomia Deppeana × Quadrifolia | Peperomia Tetraphylla
Peperomia Polybotrya
Peperomia Prostrata
Peruvian Apple Cactus
Philodendron
Philodendron 'Monkey Mask'
Philodendron Hederaceum
Philodendron Minima
Philodendron Scandens
Phoenix Canariensis
Pickle Cactus
Pickle Plant
Pilea Depressa
Pilea Mollis
Pilea Peperomoides
Pilocereus Azureus
Pincushion Euphorbia
Pink Jelly Beans
Pink Pork and Beans
Pink Splash
Pink Violet
Pitcher Plant
Polka Dot Begonia
Polka Dot Plant
Polyscias Fruticosa
Polystichum Tsussimense
Portulaca Umbraticolata
Portulacaria Afra Mediopicta
Pot Belly Fig
Pothos
Prayer Plant
Provision Tree
Purple Rain Plant
Purple Shamrock
Purple Wood Sorrel
Rabbit Ears Cactus
Rabbit's Foot
Rabbit's Tracks
Radiator Plant
Raindrop Money Plant
Raindrop Pilea
Rattlesnake Plant
Red Rhipsalis Cactus
Red Rubber Plant
Rhapidophora Tetrasperma
Rhipsalis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Heteroclada
Rhipsalis Horrida
Rhipsalis Occidentalis
Rhododendron Inga
Ric Rac Orchid Cactus
Ric-Rac Cactus
Rosa
Rosary Plant
Rosary Vine
Rough Fern
Rubber Plant
Saba Nut
Sago Palm
Saint Barbara's Sword
Saint Paulia
Saint Paulia
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
Sansevieria Trifascia
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sarracenia
Satin Pothos
Savannah Geranium
Schefflera Arboricola
Schlumbergera Bridgesii
Scindapsus Pictum Argyraeus
Scindapsus Pictus
Sedum Morganianum
Sedum Rubrotinctum Variegata
Senecio
Senecio Herrianus
Senecio Rowleyanus
Senecio Stapeliiformis
Shark Fin Plant
Shark's Tooth Philodendron
Silver Dollar Plant
Silver Jade Plant
Silver Pothos
Silver Vase
Small-Leaved Fig
Small-Leaved Rubber Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Tongue
Spanish Moss
Spathiphyllum
Spathiphyllum wallisii
Spear Sansevieria
Spider Plant
Spider Plant
Spiderwort
Spineless Yucca
Split-leaf Philodendron
Spotted Begonia
Star Plant
Stephanotis Floribunda
Stick Yucca
Stranging Fig
Strelitzia Alba
Strelitzia Nicolai
Strelitzia Reginae
Streptocarpus Saxorum
String of Beads
String of Hearts
String of Pearls
String of Tears
String of Turtles
Strings
Surprise Miltoniopsis
Sweetheart Plant
Sweetheart Plant Brazil
Swiss Cheese Plant
Swiss Cheese Vine
Sword Fern
Syngonium Erythrophyllum
Syngonium Nephphytis
Tailflower
Tears Pilea
Thanksgiving Cactus
Ti Leaf
Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Tillandsia
Tillandsia Ionantha
Tradescantia Albiflora
Tradescantia Commelinaceae Multiflora
Trailing Jade
Tropical Laurel
Tropicana Palm
Trout Begonia
True Aloe
Trumpet Lily
Trumpet Pitcher Plant
Trumpet Plant
Turtle Strings
UFO Plant
Umbrella Tree
Urn Plant
Variegated Chain of Hearts
Variegated Entangled Hearts
Variegated Laurel
Variegated Rosary Plant
Variegated Rosary Vine
Variegated Rubber Plant
Variegated String of Hearts
Vriesea splendens
Vuylstekeara Orchid
Wandering Dude
Wandering Jew
Wax Plant
Weeping Fig
Weeping Laurel
Whale Fin Plant
White Bird Of Paradise
White Crane Flower
White Flowered Wild Banana
Wild Banana
Wild Cape Banana
Yellow Palm
Yucca Elephantipes
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Zantedeschia
Zanzibar Gem
Zebra Basket Vine
Zebra Cactus
Zebra Lipstick Plant
Zebra Plant
Zebrina Pendula
Zigzag Cactus
Zuzu Plant
ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant
Harley Jennings
Harley Jennings is a renowned indoor plant expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience working with some of the UK's top botany and garden centers. Harley's passion for indoor plants blossomed early in his career, leading him to become a trusted authority in the field. He has spent years nurturing plants, researching the best care practices, and sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Harley is the author of the comprehensive guide "The Complete Guide to Indoor Plant Care," where he combines his wealth of experience with a deep love for greenery. This guide provides readers with everything they need to know about indoor plants, from selection and placement to watering, feeding, and troubleshooting common issues.
In addition to his writing, Harley plays a pivotal role in the development of the Botanic Beam app, a revolutionary tool that offers plant lovers a wealth of information in one convenient place. The app simplifies plant care, providing tailored advice, reminders, and expert tips to help users create thriving indoor gardens.
Outside of his professional life, Harley enjoys urban beekeeping, finding a unique connection between nurturing plants and supporting local ecosystems. His relatable, down-to-earth approach makes him a favorite among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners. Whether through his guide or the Botanic Beam app, Harley Jennings continues to inspire and educate, helping people transform their homes into green sanctuaries.