Succulents Keep Dying

Succulents are supposed to be low-maintenance and easy to care for, but somehow, they still manage to wither away and die on us. If you're tired of watching your succulent collection dwindle, don't worry – you're not alone. At Botanic Beam, we're here to help you identify the common mistakes that might be killing your succulents and provide you with actionable tips to turn things around.

Overwatering: The Most Common Cause of Succulent Death

It's ironic that the most common cause of succulent death is also the most well-intentioned. We want to give our plants enough water to thrive, but succulents are different. They store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, so they don't need much water to survive. In fact, overwatering is the fastest way to kill a succulent. When the soil is consistently waterlogged, the roots rot, and the plant dies.

To avoid overwatering, make sure to 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, and only when the soil is dry to the touch. It's also essential to use a well-draining potting mix to prevent water from accumulating in the soil.

Underwatering: The Other Side of the Coin

While overwatering is a common mistake, underwatering can be just as deadly. Succulents need some water to survive, especially during the active growing season. If you're not watering your succulent enough, it will start to shrivel up and eventually die.

To avoid underwatering, make sure to water your succulent regularly during the spring and summer months. Reduce watering during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant. A good rule of thumb is to water your succulent when the leaves start to wrinkle or shrink.

Insufficient Light

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Succulents need light to photosynthesize and grow, but they don't need direct sunlight. In fact, direct sunlight can be too intense and cause the leaves to become scorched. Most succulents prefer bright, indirect light, especially during the winter months.

To provide your succulent with the right amount of light, place it near a sunny window or under a skylight. If you can't provide natural light, consider using grow lights. Aim for at least 4-6 hours of indirect light per day.

Inadequate Temperature Control

Succulents are sensitive to extreme temperatures, which can cause them to die. Most succulents prefer temperatures between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C), with some species requiring even warmer or cooler temperatures.

To keep your succulent happy, avoid placing it near heating or cooling vents, fireplaces, or drafty windows. Keep an eye on the temperature and move your succulent to a more suitable location if necessary.

Poor Soil Quality

The potting mix you use can make a significant difference in your succulent's health. Regular potting soil can retain too much water and cause root rot, while a well-draining potting mix can help prevent this.

Look for a potting mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents. This type of mix will contain ingredients like perlite, vermiculite, or sand that help to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging.

Lack of Humidity

Succulents prefer a relatively low humidity environment, typically between 40-50%. However, if the air is too dry, your succulent may start to shrivel up and die.

To maintain the right humidity level, you can place the pot on a tray filled with water and pebbles. As the water evaporates, it will increase the humidity around the plant. You can also use a humidifier, especially during the dry winter months.

Pests and Diseases

Pests and diseases can quickly kill your succulent if left untreated. Common pests that target succulents include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. Fungal diseases like root rot and leaf spot can also be deadly.

To prevent pests and diseases, inspect your succulent regularly for signs of infestation or infection. Isolate infected plants, and treat them with insecticidal soap or fungicides as needed. Improve air circulation, and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal diseases.

Repotting and Propagation

Repotting and propagation are essential skills for any succulent enthusiast. When done correctly, they can help to keep your succulent healthy and thriving.

Repot your succulent every 1-2 years to provide fresh soil and a larger pot. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent the soil from becoming too wet. When propagating, make sure to use a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can keep your succulents happy and thriving. Remember to monitor your plants regularly, and make adjustments as needed. With a little patience and practice, you'll be a succulent expert in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my succulents keep dying?

Succulents are known for their hardiness, but they can still be finicky. Overwatering, underwatering, lack of light, and extreme temperatures are common reasons why succulents die. It's essential to identify the cause of death to prevent it from happening again in the future.

How often should I water my succulents?

The frequency of watering succulents depends on the type, size, and climate. As a general rule, water your succulents when the soil is dry to the touch, usually every 7-10 days in the summer and less often in the winter. Make sure to water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain from the pot.

What's the best soil for succulents?

A well-draining soil is crucial for succulents. Look for a mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents, which typically contains perlite, vermiculite, or sand. Avoid using regular potting soil, as it can retain too much water and cause root rot.

Can I use tap water for my succulents?

Tap water can be used, but it's not the best option. Tap water often contains chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, which can harm succulents. If possible, use filtered or rainwater to water your succulents.

How much sunlight do succulents need?

Most succulents require bright, indirect sunlight. Placing them near a south-facing window or under grow lights can provide the necessary light. However, some succulents can tolerate full sun, while others prefer partial shade. Research the specific needs of your succulent species.

What's the ideal temperature for succulents?

The ideal temperature for succulents varies, but most prefer daytime temperatures between 65°F-75°F (18°C-24°C) and nighttime temperatures around 55°F-65°F (13°C-18°C). Avoid placing succulents near heating or cooling vents, fireplaces, or drafty windows.

Can I fertilize my succulents?

Yes, succulents can benefit from fertilization. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) and dilute it to half the recommended strength. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season (fall and winter).

Why are my succulents turning yellow?

Yellowing succulents can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or a lack of light. Check the soil moisture, adjust your watering schedule, and ensure your succulent is receiving sufficient light. If the problem persists, consider repotting or pruning.

How do I propagate succulents?

Succulents can be easily propagated through leaf or stem cuttings. Allow the cut ends to dry for a few days to form a callus, then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and warm until roots develop.

Can I grow succulents indoors?

Yes, succulents can thrive indoors with proper care. Choose a spot with bright, indirect sunlight, and maintain a consistent temperature. Avoid placing succulents in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens.

Why are my succulents getting leggy?

Leggy succulents can be caused by insufficient light, leading to stretching. Move your succulent to a brighter location or consider using grow lights. Pruning can also help maintain a bushy shape.

Can I repot my succulents?

Yes, repotting succulents can be beneficial. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one, and use fresh, well-draining soil. Repotting can help provide more room for growth and refresh the soil.

How often should I repot my succulents?

Repot your succulents every 1-3 years, depending on their growth rate and pot size. Spring and summer are the best times for repotting, as succulents are actively growing.

What are some common succulent pests?

Common succulent pests include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. Inspect your plants regularly, and treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

How do I treat root rot in succulents?

Root rot is often caused by overwatering. Stop watering, and allow the soil to dry out completely. Remove any affected roots, and repot the succulent in fresh, well-draining soil. Reduce watering frequency to prevent further rot.

Can I grow succulents in the shade?

While most succulents prefer bright light, some species can tolerate partial shade. However, succulents grown in shade may become leggy or weak. Choose shade-tolerant species, such as Aloe or Haworthia, and ensure they receive some indirect sunlight.

Why are my succulents not growing?

Succulents may not grow due to inadequate light, insufficient water, or poor soil quality. Check your care routine, and make adjustments as needed. Fertilization can also promote healthy growth.

Can I grow succulents outdoors?

Yes, succulents can thrive outdoors in warm, dry climates. Choose a location with full sun to partial shade, and ensure good air circulation. Protect your succulents from frost and extreme temperatures.

How do I protect my succulents from frost?

Bring your succulents indoors or move them to a frost-free area before the first frost. If that's not possible, cover your succulents with a sheet or blanket to insulate them. Remove any coverings during the day to prevent moisture buildup.

Can I divide my succulents?

Yes, you can divide succulents to create new plants. Wait until the succulent has outgrown its pot, then gently separate the roots and replant the separated sections in fresh soil.

Why are my succulents dropping leaves?

Succulents may drop leaves due to overwatering, underwatering, or extreme temperatures. Check your care routine, and adjust as needed. Dropping leaves can also be a natural process, especially in older plants.

Can I use succulents in floral arrangements?

Yes, succulents can be used in floral arrangements, adding a unique touch to bouquets and centerpieces. Choose succulents with interesting shapes and colors, and combine them with other flowers and foliage.

How do I care for succulents in the winter?

During the winter, reduce watering frequency, as succulents require less moisture. Keep your succulents in a cooler, brighter location, and avoid fertilizing until the spring.

Can I grow succulents from seeds?

Yes, succulents can be grown from seeds, but it can be a slow and challenging process. Sow seeds in well-draining soil, and provide adequate light and water. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Why are my succulents turning brown?

Browning succulents can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to extreme temperatures. Check your care routine, and adjust as needed. Remove any affected leaves or stems to prevent the spread of disease.

Get The Botanic Beam App Today!

With just a snap, unveil the mysteries of your green companions. Discover their secrets, learn their names, and embrace the magic of expert care tips and hidden tricks for lush, thriving growth.