At Botanic Beam, we understand the heartbreak of watching your beloved succulent wither away. It's a frustrating experience, especially when you're not sure what went wrong. In this article, we'll delve into the common reasons why succulents die, how to identify the signs of a dying succulent, and most importantly, provide you with actionable tips to revive and prevent future demise.
Table of Contents
Common Reasons Why Succulents Die
Succulents are notoriously low-maintenance plants, but they still require proper care to thrive. Here are some of the most common reasons why succulents die:
Overwatering: This is the most common cause of succulent death. Succulents have adapted to store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, making them drought-tolerant. However, when they're waterlogged, the roots rot, causing the plant to die.
Underwatering: On the other hand, succulents still need some water to survive. If the soil is too dry for an extended period, the plant will shrivel up and die.
Root bound: When a succulent outgrows its pot, it needs to be transplanted into a larger container. If left unchecked, the roots will become root-bound, causing the plant to die.
Pests and diseases: Succulents are susceptible to pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. Fungal diseases like root rot and leaf spot can also cause significant damage.
Temperature fluctuations: Most succulents prefer temperatures between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Extreme temperatures can cause stress, leading to death.
Lack of light: Succulents need adequate light to photosynthesize and grow. Insufficient light can cause the plant to weaken and eventually die.
Signs of a Dying Succulent
It's essential to identify the signs of a dying succulent early on to take corrective action. Here are some common signs to look out for:
Soft, mushy leaves: Healthy succulent leaves are firm and plump. If they're soft and mushy, it's a sign of overwatering.
Wrinkled, shriveled leaves: Conversely, if the leaves are wrinkled and shriveled, it's a sign of underwatering.
Black or brown leaves: If the leaves are turning black or brown, it's a sign of root rot or fungal disease.
Falling leaves: If the leaves are falling off the plant, it's a sign of stress, disease, or pests.
No new growth: If your succulent is not producing new leaves or stems, it may be a sign of nutrient deficiency or root bound.
How to Revive a Dying Succulent
If you've identified the signs of a dying succulent, don't give up hope just yet. Here are some steps to revive your plant:
Adjust watering: If you suspect overwatering, stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If you suspect underwatering, increase the frequency of watering.
Prune affected areas: Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems to prevent the spread of disease.
Repot: If the plant is root-bound, transplant it into a larger pot with well-draining soil.
Treat pests and diseases: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat pests, and fungicides to treat fungal diseases.
Provide optimal conditions: Ensure the plant is receiving adequate light, temperature, and humidity.
Preventing Future Demise
To prevent your succulent from dying in the future, follow these best practices:
Water carefully: Water your succulent when the soil is dry to the touch, usually every 7-10 days in the summer and less often in the winter.
Monitor temperature: Keep your succulent away from heating vents, fireplaces, and drafty windows.
Provide adequate light: Place your succulent in a spot with bright, indirect light, such as an east- or west-facing window.
Fertilize sparingly: Feed your succulent with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
Repot as needed: Transplant your succulent into a larger pot when the plant has outgrown its container.
Inspect regularly: Regularly inspect your succulent for signs of pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiency.
Succulent Care Tips for Beginners
If you're new to succulent care, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
Choose the right pot: Select a pot with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.
Use well-draining soil: Avoid using regular potting soil, as it can retain too much water. Instead, opt for a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents.
Water in the morning: Water your succulent in the morning, so the plant has the entire day to dry out.
Avoid getting water on the leaves: Water at the base of the plant to avoid getting water on the leaves, which can cause rot.
Common Succulent Myths Debunked
There are several myths surrounding succulent care that can lead to plant death. Here are some common myths debunked:
Myth: Succulents don't need water. Reality: Succulents need some water to survive, especially during the growing season.
Myth: Succulents can thrive in low light. Reality: While some succulents can tolerate low light, most require bright, indirect light to photosynthesize.
Myth: Succulents are pest- and disease-free. Reality: Succulents are susceptible to pests and diseases, especially if they're not properly cared for.
Conclusion
Succulent death can be a frustrating experience, but it's not the end of the world. By identifying the signs of a dying succulent, taking corrective action, and following best practices, you can revive and prevent future demise. Remember, succulents are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they still require proper care to thrive. With the right knowledge and attention, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of these incredible plants.
At Botanic Beam, we're committed to providing you with the most in-depth information on plant care. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my succulent die?
If your succulent has died, it's likely due to one of a few common reasons. Overwatering, underwatering, extreme temperatures, and lack of light are all common culprits. It's also possible that your succulent was infected by pests or diseases. Take a closer look at your plant's environment and care routine to identify what might have gone wrong.
How do I know if my succulent is dead?
A dead succulent will typically display some obvious signs. Check for soft, mushy, or rotting leaves, stems, or roots. If your succulent has turned brown or black and is crumbling to the touch, it's likely deceased. You can also gently tug on a leaf; if it comes off easily, the plant is probably dead.
Can I revive a dead succulent?
Sadly, once a succulent has died, it's usually impossible to revive it. However, if you catch the problem early enough, you might be able to save a few healthy leaves or stems to propagate a new plant. Remove any dead or damaged tissue, and repot the healthy parts in fresh soil with proper care.
Why did my succulent turn yellow?
A yellowing succulent can be a sign of several issues. Overwatering, underwatering, and nutrient deficiencies can all cause yellowing leaves. It's also possible that your succulent is simply shedding old leaves to make way for new growth. Check your watering schedule and fertilizer routine to ensure you're providing the right conditions for your plant.
How often should I water my succulent?
The frequency of watering depends on the type of succulent, the size of the pot, and the climate you're in. As a general rule, water your succulent when the soil is dry to the touch, usually every 7-10 days in the spring and summer, and less often in the fall and winter. Be sure to water thoroughly, but avoid getting waterlogged soil.
What kind of soil should I use for my succulent?
Succulents require well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots. Look for a potting mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents, which will typically contain a mix of perlite, vermiculite, and sand. Avoid using regular potting soil, as it can retain too much water and cause root rot.
How much sunlight does my succulent need?
Most succulents require bright, indirect sunlight to photosynthesize and thrive. Placing your succulent near a south-facing window or under grow lights can provide the necessary light. However, be cautious not to expose your succulent to direct sunlight, which can cause burning and discoloration.
Why are my succulent leaves falling off?
Falling leaves can be a sign of stress, disease, or pests. Check for signs of overwatering, underwatering, or extreme temperatures. It's also possible that your succulent is simply shedding old leaves to make way for new growth. Inspect your plant for any signs of pests, such as mealybugs or spider mites.
How do I propagate a succulent?
Propagating a succulent is a great way to share plants with friends or create new additions for your own collection. Simply twist or cut off a healthy leaf or stem, allow it to dry for a few days to form a callus, and then plant it in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until roots develop.
Can I grow succulents indoors?
Absolutely! Succulents make great indoor plants due to their low-maintenance requirements and ability to thrive in low-light conditions. Choose a succulent species that's tolerant of indoor conditions, such as aloe or echeveria, and provide the right care and attention.
Why is my succulent growing leggy?
A leggy succulent can be a sign of insufficient light. If your succulent is stretching towards the light source, it may not be receiving enough light. Try moving it to a brighter location or supplementing with grow lights. You can also prune your succulent to encourage bushier growth.
How do I care for my succulent in the winter?
During the winter months, most succulents require less water and nutrients. Reduce your watering schedule, and avoid fertilizing until the spring. Keep your succulent in a cool, bright location, and protect it from frost and freezing temperatures.
Can I use tap water for my succulent?
Tap water can be used for succulents, but it's not always the best option. Tap water may contain high levels of fluoride, chlorine, or other chemicals that can harm your plant. Consider using filtered or distilled water to ensure your succulent receives the purest water possible.
Why are my succulent leaves turning brown?
Brown leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to extreme temperatures. Check your watering schedule and ensure you're providing the right amount of moisture. Also, inspect your plant for signs of pests or diseases, which can cause brown leaves.
Can I repot my succulent in the summer?
While it's possible to repot your succulent in the summer, it's generally recommended to do so in the spring or fall when the plant is actively growing. Repotting in the summer can cause stress to your succulent, especially if it's exposed to high temperatures and intense sunlight.
How do I deal with pests on my succulent?
Common pests that affect succulents include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. Inspect your plant regularly for signs of infestation, and treat promptly if you notice any issues. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests, and ensure good air circulation to prevent re-infestation.
Can I grow succulents in a terrarium?
Succulents can thrive in terrariums, but it's essential to choose the right species and provide proper care. Select succulents that are tolerant of high humidity and low light, such as aloe or crassula. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Why is my succulent not growing?
If your succulent is not growing, it may be due to a lack of light, water, or nutrients. Check your care routine and ensure you're providing the right conditions for your plant. Fertilize sparingly during the growing season, and prune your succulent to encourage new growth.
Can I use fertilizer on my succulent?
Yes, fertilizing your succulent can provide essential nutrients for healthy growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer), and avoid fertilizing during the dormant season (fall and winter). Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning your succulent's roots.
How do I prune my succulent?
Pruning your succulent can encourage bushy growth, remove dead or damaged tissue, and promote healthy development. Use clean, sharp scissors or clippers to remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems, and shape your succulent to maintain its desired form.
Can I grow succulents in a hanging basket?
Absolutely! Succulents make great additions to hanging baskets due to their trailing or upright growth habits. Choose a succulent species that's well-suited for hanging baskets, such as burro's tail or string of pearls, and provide the right care and attention.
Why is my succulent developing white spots?
White spots on your succulent can be a sign of powdery mildew, a fungal disease. Treat promptly by removing any affected leaves or stems, and improving air circulation around your plant. You can also use a fungicide specifically designed for succulents to control the infection.
Can I grow succulents in a cold climate?
While succulents are generally adapted to warm, dry climates, some species can tolerate cooler temperatures. Choose succulent species that are cold-hardy, such as sedum or sempervivum, and provide protection from extreme cold and frost.
How do I protect my succulent from frost?
If you live in an area prone to frost, protect your succulent by bringing it indoors or moving it to a frost-free location. You can also cover your succulent with a frost blanket or sheet to insulate it from cold temperatures. Avoid exposing your succulent to freezing temperatures, which can cause irreparable damage.
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.