Succulents are known for their plump, firm leaves, but what happens when they start to droop? Droopy leaves on succulents can be a concerning sight, especially for new plant parents. At Botanic Beam, we're here to help you identify the causes, find solutions, and prevent droopy leaves from happening in the first place.
Table of Contents
What Do Droopy Leaves Look Like?
Droopy leaves on succulents can manifest in different ways. You might notice that the leaves are:
- Soft and limp, losing their firmness and structure
- Hanging downwards, rather than standing upright
- Wrinkled or shriveled, with a lack of plumpness
- Discolored, with a yellow, brown, or black tint
If you've noticed any of these signs, it's essential to investigate the cause and take corrective action to prevent further damage.
Causes of Droopy Leaves on Succulents
There are several reasons why your succulent's leaves might be droopy. Some of the most common causes include:
Overwatering: Succulents are sensitive to too much moisture, which can cause the roots to rot and the leaves to become soft and droopy.
Underwatering: On the other hand, succulents need some water to survive. If the soil is too dry for too long, the leaves can become wrinkled and droopy.
Lack of Light: Most succulents need bright, indirect light to photosynthesize and stay healthy. Insufficient light can cause the leaves to become weak and droopy.
Pests or Diseases: Infestations or infections can cause succulent leaves to become droopy, discolored, or even fall off.
Nutrient Deficiency: Succulents need essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to stay healthy. A lack of these nutrients can cause droopy leaves.
Temperature Extremes: Succulents are sensitive to extreme temperatures, which can cause the leaves to become droopy or discolored.
Root bound: If the succulent has outgrown its pot and needs to be repotted, the roots can become constricted, causing the leaves to droop.
How to Diagnose the Cause of Droopy Leaves
To diagnose the cause of droopy leaves, you'll need to observe your succulent closely and ask yourself some questions:
Has the watering schedule changed recently?
Has the succulent been exposed to extreme temperatures or lighting conditions?
Are there any signs of pests or diseases, such as white powdery residue, black spots, or tiny insects?
Has the succulent been fertilized recently?
Has the potting mix been refreshed, or is it old and depleted?
By answering these questions and observing your succulent's behavior, you can narrow down the possible causes and take corrective action.
Solutions for Droopy Leaves on Succulents
Once you've diagnosed the cause, it's time to take action. Here are some solutions for common problems:
Overwatering: Stop watering for a while, and make sure the pot has good drainage holes. Repot the succulent in a well-draining potting mix, and reduce watering frequency.
Underwatering: Increase watering frequency, but make sure not to overwater. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle.
Lack of Light: Move the succulent to a brighter location, or consider using grow lights. Make sure the light is indirect, as direct sunlight can cause burning.
Pests or Diseases: Isolate the infected succulent, and treat it with insecticidal soap or a fungicide. Remove any affected leaves or stems to prevent the spread of the disease.
Nutrient Deficiency: Fertilize the succulent with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the label, and avoid overfertilizing.
Temperature Extremes: Move the succulent to a location with a consistent temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
Root bound: Repot the succulent in a larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Preventing Droopy Leaves on Succulents
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to prevent droopy leaves on your succulents:
Water carefully: Water your succulents when the soil is dry to the touch, and avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent rot.
Provide good light: Most succulents need bright, indirect light. Placing them near a sunny window or using grow lights can help.
Fertilize sparingly: Feed your succulents with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer), but avoid overfertilizing.
Monitor temperature: Keep your succulents away from heating vents, radiators, and air conditioning units, which can cause temperature fluctuations.
Repot as needed: Transplant your succulents into larger pots when the roots become constricted, and refresh the potting mix.
Inspect regularly: Regularly inspect your succulents for signs of pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies, and take action promptly.
Common Succulent Species That Are Prone to Droopy Leaves
Some succulent species are more prone to droopy leaves than others. These include:
Aloe vera: Aloe vera is sensitive to overwatering and can develop droopy leaves if the soil is too moist.
Echeveria: Echeveria succulents are prone to droopy leaves if they're not getting enough light or are exposed to extreme temperatures.
Crassula: Crassula succulents, such as jade plants, can develop droopy leaves if they're overwatered or underwatered.
Kalanchoe: Kalanchoe succulents are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and can develop droopy leaves if they're exposed to extreme heat or cold.
Conclusion
Droopy leaves on succulents can be a frustrating problem, but it's often easy to diagnose and solve. By understanding the causes, taking corrective action, and preventing future problems, you can keep your succulents healthy and thriving. Remember to monitor your succulents regularly, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need further guidance. At Botanic Beam, we're committed to helping you become a successful plant parent.
By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of succulent plants for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes succulent droopy leaves?
Succulent droopy leaves can be caused by a variety of factors, including overwatering, underwatering, root rot, nutrient deficiency, pests, diseases, temperature fluctuations, and insufficient light. It's essential to identify the underlying cause to take the appropriate corrective measures.
How do I know if my succulent is overwatered?
Check for signs of overwatering, such as soft, mushy leaves, yellowing or browning of the leaves, and a soft, squishy stem. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop watering your succulent immediately and let the soil dry out completely before resuming watering.
What are the signs of underwatering?
Underwatered succulents typically display wrinkled, shriveled, or shrunk leaves, often with a grayish or whitish tint. The leaves may also feel brittle and fragile to the touch. Increase the frequency of watering, but make sure not to overwater.
How often should I water my succulent?
The frequency of watering depends on the species, pot size, soil mix, and climate. As a general rule, water your succulent when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry to the touch. Water sparingly during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
What is root rot, and how can I prevent it?
Root rot is a fungal infection that occurs when the roots are submerged in water for too long, causing them to decay. Prevent root rot by using a well-draining potting mix, avoiding overwatering, and repotting your succulent every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and prune the roots.
Can I save a succulent with root rot?
It's challenging to save a succulent with advanced root rot, but you can try to rescue it by cutting off the affected roots, repotting the plant in fresh soil, and reducing watering. However, if the infection is severe, it's best to propagate a new plant from healthy stems or leaves.
What nutrients do succulents need?
Succulents require a balanced fertilizer that provides nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can use a commercial cactus and succulent fertilizer, following the instructions on the label. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can cause more harm than good.
How can I protect my succulent from pests?
Regularly inspect your succulent for signs of pests, such as mealybugs, spider mites, or scale. Isolate infected plants, and treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the product's instructions.
What diseases can affect succulents?
Succulents are susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot, which can be caused by overwatering, high humidity, and poor air circulation. Treat fungal infections with a fungicide, and improve air circulation around the plant.
Can succulents tolerate extreme temperatures?
Most succulents prefer temperatures between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Avoid placing your succulent near heating or cooling vents, fireplaces, or drafty windows, as extreme temperatures can cause stress and damage.
How much light does my succulent need?
The lighting requirements vary depending on the succulent species. Some succulents, like aloe and echeveria, prefer bright, indirect light, while others, like crassula and sedum, can tolerate full sun. Research the specific lighting needs of your succulent species.
Why are my succulent leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiency, or too much direct sunlight. Adjust your watering schedule, fertilize your succulent, and provide filtered sunlight to resolve the issue.
Can I propagate a succulent with droopy leaves?
Yes, you can propagate a succulent with droopy leaves, but it's essential to choose healthy, firm leaves or stems for propagation. Remove the droopy leaves, and use the healthy parts to create new plants.
How do I prune my succulent?
Prune your succulent to maintain shape, encourage new growth, and remove dead or damaged leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors or clippers, and make cuts just above a leaf node or joint.
Why is my succulent stretching or leggy?
Succulents can become leggy due to insufficient light, causing them to stretch towards the light source. Provide more light, or rotate the plant regularly to encourage bushy growth.
Can I grow succulents indoors?
Yes, succulents can thrive indoors, provided they receive sufficient light. Choose a bright, sunny windowsill or use grow lights to supplement the natural light.
How do I care for my succulent during the winter months?
Reduce watering, as succulents require less moisture during the winter. Keep the plant in a cool, bright location, and avoid fertilizing during the dormant period.
Can I use tap water for my succulent?
Tap water can be used, but it's recommended to let it sit for 24 hours to allow the chlorine and fluoride to evaporate. Alternatively, use rainwater or distilled water to avoid any potential harm.
How often should I repot my succulent?
Repot your succulent every 1-2 years, as needed, to refresh the soil, prune the roots, and provide a larger pot if necessary. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent the soil from becoming too wet.
What is the best potting mix for succulents?
Use 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 grow succulents in a terrarium?
Yes, succulents can thrive in a terrarium, but it's essential to choose a species that tolerates high humidity and low light. Avoid overwatering, and ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
How do I deal with succulent leaf drop?
Succulent leaf drop can be caused by stress, overwatering, or root rot. Remove the fallen leaves, adjust your watering schedule, and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Can I use succulents as a gift?
Succulents make excellent gifts, as they are low-maintenance and easy to care for. Choose a healthy, well-established plant, and provide basic care instructions to ensure the recipient can enjoy their new plant.
How do I prevent succulent leaves from getting dusty?
Gently wipe the leaves with a soft, dry brush or a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or polishes, as they can damage the leaves.
Can I grow succulents outdoors?
Yes, succulents can be grown outdoors in well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Protect the plants from extreme temperatures, frost, and excessive rainfall.
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
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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
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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.